20 Stunning Wood Christmas Tree Ideas
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Tired of the same old plastic tree?
Or maybe you’re just looking for a fun new project.
Whatever the reason, these awesome wood Christmas tree ideas are perfect for adding a touch of rustic charm to your holiday decor. Let’s get crafting!
1. Rustic Pallet Tree
This is a classic for a reason! Reclaimed wood has a beautiful, weathered look that’s impossible to fake.
How to: Find a few old pallets, deconstruct them, and cut the planks into graduated lengths. Arrange them in a triangle and secure them to a central vertical plank or backing board. Add some warm string lights and pinecones for that perfect farmhouse feel.
2. Minimalist Scandinavian Tree
Simple, sleek, and oh so chic. This tree is perfect for a modern, clutter-free home.
How to: Use thin plywood strips or dowels. Cut them into a few different lengths. Arrange them horizontally, from longest at the bottom to shortest at the top, and attach them to a central dowel. The natural wood tone and simple white ornaments will give you that clean, Scandi vibe.
3. Ladder Christmas Tree
Talk about an instant conversation starter! This idea turns an everyday object into a festive focal point.
How to: Grab an old wooden ladder. Stand it up and open it slightly so it’s stable. Drape it with string lights and hang ornaments, garland, or even small presents from the rungs.
4. Driftwood Coastal Tree
Bring the beach to your living room, even if you’re surrounded by snow.
How to: Collect pieces of driftwood (or buy some from a craft store). Find a sturdy central pole or dowel. Drill a hole through the center of each piece of driftwood and stack them on the pole, from largest to smallest. Decorate with seashells and starfish for that salty sea air feel.
5. Tiered Log Slice Tree
This is an awesome centerpiece for your dining table or a side table.
How to: Find wood slices of various sizes. Stack them on top of each other, using a little wood glue to secure them. Place some small pine branches and battery-operated candles on each tier for a cozy glow.
6. Wooden Shelf Tree
A tree that’s not just for looks—it’s also for storing all your holiday goodies!
How to: Build a triangular frame out of wood. Add horizontal shelves at different levels, creating a tree shape with built-in storage. Use the shelves to display candles, ornaments, or even tiny wrapped gifts.
7. Chalkboard Wood Tree
This is a fun, interactive project that the whole family can get in on.
How to: Cut a large piece of wood into a tree shape. Paint it with a few coats of chalkboard paint. Once it’s dry, you can use chalk to draw ornaments, garlands, and festive messages. The best part? You can change the design every year!
8. Wall-Mounted Slat Tree
Perfect for small spaces or for adding a festive touch without taking up any floor space.
How to: Cut wooden slats into graduating lengths. Mount them directly onto your wall in a tree shape using a strong adhesive or small nails. Decorate with small ornaments and fairy lights.
9. Wooden Advent Calendar Tree
Make the countdown to Christmas even more special with this DIY calendar.
How to: Cut a large triangular board. Screw in 25 small hooks. You can hang small gift bags or tiny wrapped presents from each hook, one for each day of December. Add some greenery and lights for a festive touch.
10. Rustic Fence Post Tree
If you love a true rustic, weathered look, this is the project for you.
How to: Salvage old fence posts. Arrange them into a pyramid or tree shape. The weathered wood and cracks will give it tons of character. Decorate with burlap ribbons and wooden stars.
11. Wooden Crate Tree
This project gives you a tree that’s also a creative way to display gifts and decor.
How to: Stack wooden crates of various sizes in a pyramid. You can secure them with screws or just stack them carefully. Fill the openings with wrapped gifts, pine branches, and ornaments.
12. String Art Tree on Wood
A fun and surprisingly simple project that looks intricate and beautiful.
How to: Cut a board into a tree shape or simply use a rectangular board. Hammer small nails along the outline of a Christmas tree. Wrap green string around the nails to fill in the shape. You can add more colors for ornaments or outline it with fairy lights.
13. Wooden Bead Tree
A simple, charming, and elegant option that looks great on a mantel.
How to: Get a cone-shaped wooden base. Use wood glue to attach natural wooden beads, starting from the bottom and working your way up. You can add tiny red bows or other small decorations for a pop of color.
14. Folding Wooden Tree
Genius for small apartments and easy storage!
How to: Get a few pieces of wood and hinge them together at the top so they can fan out. When you’re done for the season, you can just fold it flat and store it. Decorate with lights and ornaments on each panel.
15. Wooden Sign Tree
Share some holiday cheer with this sign-tastic tree.
How to: Cut wooden boards into different lengths. Paint them with festive colors like red, white, and green. Use a stencil or freehand paint holiday phrases like “Joy,” “Peace,” and “Merry Christmas.” Stack them and attach them to a central board.
16. Pegboard Ornament Tree
This one is all about showing off your favorite ornaments.
How to: Cut a piece of pegboard into a tree shape. Hang your ornaments on the peg holes. You can easily move them around to create different looks throughout the season.
17. Recycled Ruler Tree
Who knew your old school supplies could be so festive?
How to: Gather up some old wooden rulers. Cut them into graduated lengths. Glue them onto a wooden backing board to create a tree shape. You can paint them or leave them as is for a vintage look.
18. Outdoor Yard Wood Tree
Make a big statement in your front yard with this simple, large-scale project.
How to: Build a large tree-shaped frame out of wood. Use thick, sturdy planks so it can stand up to the elements. Wrap the frame in waterproof string lights and place it in your yard for a magical, glowing display.
19. Wooden Cone Tree
A geometric take on a classic holiday shape.
How to: Purchase or create cone-shaped wooden forms. You can use thin plywood or even just paper mache cones covered in a wood-like finish. Paint them with metallic gold or silver paint. These look beautiful arranged on a mantel or a table.
20. Puzzle-Style Wooden Tree
A unique, modern, and fun piece of decor.
How to: Cut interlocking wooden pieces that fit together to form a 3D puzzle tree. You can find patterns online or design your own. Decorate with tiny ornaments or leave it as is to appreciate the craftsmanship.
