Christmas Tree Decor from Pallet Wood or Fence Picket
Modern Farmhouse Christmas Tree Decor Add a touch of handcrafted charm to your holiday decorating with this easy-to-build wooden Christmas tree. walk you through the simple steps to create a modern, minimalist tree that fits beautifully with neutral and farmhouse-style decor. Standing 18" tall and made from basic 1x wood boards, this tree is designed to be beginner-friendly, budget-friendly, and ready for personal touches—paint it black for a bold statement, whitewash it for rustic charm, or decorate it with lights, garlands, or greenery. Whether you're making it as a standalone holiday accent, pairing it with wrapped gifts, or creating a whole forest of tabletop trees, this project is a quick and satisfying build. The plans also include a 1x3 base design so the tree stands independently on shelves, mantels, or entry tables. Plan Highlights: • Finished size: Approx. 18" tall x 15 ¾" wide • Built from 1x boards – minimal cuts, no complex joinery • Includes optional 1x3 base for freestanding display • Great for scrap wood builds or group craft projects • Clear step-by-step diagram included • Perfect for makers of all skill levels Download the plans, grab a few boards, and start building your own timeless holiday decor—made by hand, made with love. design image rendered from plans
Specifications
| Project type | Home Decor |
|---|---|
| Room | living room |
| Difficulty | Starter Projects |
| Estimated cost | Under $20 |
Dimensions
Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.
Shopping List
- 1 - 5-1/2" wide cedar fence picket, about half of a fence picket per tree
- 1 - 1x3 (about 20")
- 1-1/4" brad nails
- wood glue
- stain or paint
Cut List
- 1 - 1x6 @ 6-3/8" - long point to long point measurement, both ends cut at 30 degrees off square
- 1 - 1x6 @ 11" - long point to long point measurement, both ends cut at 30 degrees off square
- 1 - 1x6 @ 15-3/4" - long point to long point measurement, both ends cut at 30 degrees off square
- 1 - 1x3 @ 16" - tree trunk
- 1 - 1x3 @ 2-1/2" - base
Tools
- measuring tape
- pencil
- safety glasses
- compound miter saw
- nailer
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1
Step 2
Step 3
Step 4
Finishing
Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.
Source (temporary): https://www.ana-white.com/woodworking-projects/christmas-tree-decor-pallet-wood-or-fence-picket