Is a DIY plywood Christmas tree a holly jolly or an oh-no-no?
The holiday season is upon us, and the question of whether to get a real, artificial, or plywood Christmas tree is top of mind for many. Plywood Christmas trees have been gaining popularity in recent years as they offer a unique and eco-friendly alternative to traditional trees. But are they right for you?
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the DIY plywood Christmas tree to help you decide if it’s the right choice for your holiday celebrations.
Spoiler alert: we think they’re pretty darn awesome.
Is a DIY Plywood Christmas Tree a Good Idea?
Before we get into all the reasons why we love plywood Christmas trees, let’s address the elephant in the room:
Is a DIY plywood Christmas tree a good idea?
It’s true that plywood Christmas trees have a different aesthetic than traditional trees. They’re often described as being more modern or minimalist. But that doesn’t mean they can’t be festive!
You can decorate your plywood Christmas tree with a little creativity to make it as festive and cheerful as any traditional tree. And there’s something to be said for a Christmas tree that’s a little bit different.
What Are The Benefits of a DIY Plywood Christmas Tree?
- They’re durable. A DIY Plywood Christmas tree can be used year after year without worrying about it, shedding needles or drying out.
- They’re eco-friendly. Plywood is a sustainable material that can be recycled or reused.
- They’re customizable. You can paint, stain, or decorate your plywood Christmas tree to match your personal style.
- They’re space-saving. A DIY Plywood Christmas tree can be stored flat, occupying very little space.
- They’re versatile. Plywood Christmas trees can be used indoors or outdoors.
What Are The Potential Drawbacks To Consider?
- They can be expensive. Plywood Christmas trees can be more expensive than some artificial trees.
- They can be heavy. Plywood Christmas trees can be heavy and difficult to move.
- They may require some assembly. Some plywood Christmas trees require some assembly.
Overall, we think the benefits of plywood Christmas trees far outweigh the drawbacks.
If you’re looking for a durable, eco-friendly, and customizable Christmas tree, then a plywood Christmas tree is definitely worth considering.
What Type of Plywood to Use?
The type of plywood to use for a Christmas tree depends on where you plan to display the tree:
- For Outdoor Use: Choose pressure-treated plywood to withstand the elements.
- For Indoor Use: Opt for paint or stain-grade plywood, which can be easily decorated and is suitable for indoor environments.
- Marine-Grade Plywood: You can also use marine-grade plywood for your Christmas tree. This type of plywood is the most durable, water-resistant, and expensive.
Selecting the right type of plywood ensures the durability and adaptability of your DIY plywood Christmas tree to its intended setting.
Ultimately, the best type of plywood for your Christmas tree depends on your needs and preferences. If you are unsure which type of plywood to choose, you can always ask for help at your local hardware store.
Here are some additional tips for choosing plywood for your Christmas tree:
- Make sure the plywood is sanded smooth. This will make it easier to paint or stain.
- Choose plywood that is at least 1/2 inch thick. This will make the tree more durable.
- Consider the grain of the plywood. Some people prefer plywood with a smooth grain, while others prefer a more rustic look.
- If you are painting or staining your tree, make sure to choose plywood that is made for painting or staining.
How to Decorate Wooden Christmas Trees?
Decorating a wooden Christmas tree offers endless possibilities. Here are a few decorating ideas:
- LED Light Bulbs: Add a festive glow with LED lights.
- Colorful Spray Paint: Use vibrant spray paints, like shimmer lines, for a colorful effect.
- Glitter Paint: Incorporate glitter for a classic Christmas sparkle.
- Glow-in-the-Dark Paint: For a unique touch, use glow-in-the-dark paint.
- Metallic Paint Pens: Personalize with freehand patterns using metallic paint pens.
- Ornaments: Easily add cup hooks to hang traditional Christmas ornaments.
These options allow for a high level of customization, ensuring your plywood Christmas tree is a unique and festive addition to your holiday decor.
Cutting Plywood Sheet for Christmas Tree: How to?
Here is a step-by-step guide on how to cut a plywood sheet for a Christmas tree without images:
Materials:
- Plywood sheet (1/2 inch thick or thicker)
- Pencil
- Template (optional)
- Jigsaw
- Clamp
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
Steps:
- Design Your Tree: Decide on the shape and size of your Christmas tree. If you’re freehanding the design, use a pencil to sketch the outline of the tree on the plywood sheet. Alternatively, you can create or download a template and tape it to the plywood sheet.
- Cut Out the Tree Shape: Safely clamp the plywood sheet to your workbench or another sturdy surface. Put on your safety glasses and gloves. Carefully cut out the tree shape from the plywood sheet using a jigsaw. Follow the lines of your template or drawing precisely.
- Sand the Edges: Once you’ve cut out the tree shape, use a piece of sandpaper or an electric sander to smooth out the edges. This will give your tree a clean and polished finish.
- Drill Holes for Ornaments: If you want to hang ornaments on your tree, mark the desired locations for the ornament hooks or strings. Then, use a drill to create holes at these points. The holes should be slightly larger than the hooks or strings you’ll be using.
- Decorate Your Tree: Unleash your creativity and decorate your plywood Christmas tree however you like! You can paint it, stain it, or use markers, glitter, or any other decorative materials that suit your style.
- Admire Your Work: Once you’re satisfied with your creation, step back and admire your unique and beautiful plywood Christmas tree! It’s a festive addition to your holiday décor that you can cherish for years to come.
Safety Tips:
- Always wear safety glasses and gloves when using power tools.
- Ensure the jigsaw is securely clamped to the plywood sheet before cutting.
- Cut slowly and carefully, following the lines of your template or drawing.
- Avoid forcing the jigsaw. If the blade gets stuck, stop cutting and back it out.
Additional Tips:
- For a more rustic look, use rough-cut plywood instead of smooth-sanded plywood.
- If you want a taller tree, stack multiple plywood cutouts of the same tree shape.
- Consider attaching it to a stand or base to stabilize your tree.
- Get creative with your decorations! Use natural elements like pinecones and acorns, or mix in traditional ornaments for a festive touch.
What Does a Completed DIY Plywood Christmas Tree Look Like?
A completed DIY plywood Christmas tree can take on a variety of looks, depending on the individual’s creativity and preferences. Here are a few examples together with their peg creative design ideas:
Rustic and Natural:
- Unpainted or lightly stained plywood
- Decorated with natural elements like pinecones, acorns, and berries
- Strung with white lights or warm-toned fairy lights
This style evokes a cozy, rustic charm and blends seamlessly with farmhouse or nature-inspired décor themes.
Modern and Minimalist:
- Painted in a bold color or a sleek metallic finish
- Adorned with geometric ornaments and simple shapes
- Lit with cool-toned LED lights or spotlighting
This style exudes a modern, sophisticated aesthetic and complements contemporary or minimalist décor schemes.
Whimsical and Festive:
- Painted in a variety of bright color palette or patterned designs
- Decorated with playful ornaments, handmade decorations, and whimsical accents
- Strung with colorful lights and twinkling ornaments
This style brings a touch of fun and cheerfulness to the holiday season and suits a playful or eclectic décor style.
Traditional and Elegant:
- Stained in a rich, warm tone or painted in a classic shade like green or gold
- Decorated with traditional ornaments, such as balls, bells, and stars
- Lit with warm, inviting lights
This style embodies the timeless elegance of a traditional Christmas tree and complements classic or formal décor styles.
Final Thoughts on DIY Plywood Christmas Tree
Ultimately, the beauty of a DIY plywood Christmas tree lies in its versatility and adaptability. It can be customized to reflect the unique style and personality of the creator, making it a truly personal and meaningful holiday decoration.
