13 Faux Christmas Trees for Small Spaces and Beyond
I love a good Christmas tree. I’m the kind of person that puts her Christmas tree up the day after Thanksgiving and leaves it up through New Year’s Day … and maybe a little longer. The smell, the color, the fond memories it evokes — a lush Christmas tree is definitely my idea of the perfect holiday accessory. Nothing beats it.
Christmas Tree Card Display
Try something new this year with a space-saving, alternative Christmas tree that can even display cards from friends and family. You'll need: 4x8-foot sheet of luan; latex paint or water-based stain; staining pad (if using stain); drill; 1/2-inch paddle bit; colored craft string; upholstery tacks or push pins; 6-foot strand of 12-gauge wire; tennis ball; picture nail; hammer; battery-operated LED twinkle lights; duct tape in metallic finish; scissors; chalk.
Photo by: Brian Patrick Flynn
Brian Patrick Flynn
But what do you do when you live in an apartment that doesn’t allow live trees? Or what if your space is simply too small? As a true Christmas tree lover, I’ve rounded up my favorite Christmas tree alternatives that are so adorable and unique, they may just be (dare I say it?) better than the real thing. Because everyone deserves a Christmas tree for the holidays.
Chalkboard Christmas Tree
Kid's Craft-Colorful Pom-Pom Garland
Kids love seeing their handmade ornaments and decorations used at Christmas. This colorful yard garland is fun and simple to make for kids of all ages, making it an ideal family craft.
Photo by: Marian Parsons
Marian Parsons
I always say I’m over chalkboard everything, but maybe I’m just kidding myself. This chalkboard Christmas tree with an adorable handmade pom-pom garland is simply too cute. The best part? It takes up virtually no space. Maybe a chalkboard wall is a worthy investment after all.
Make This: Pom-Pom Christmas Garland
Ombre Felt Trees
Ombre Tabletop Trees
Layer shades of same-colored felt to create a modern ombre effect, or use a solid color for a more traditional look. Either way, these eye-catching trees will add a handmade touch to this year's Christmas table.
You know those craft projects that once you start, you just want to keep making them for absolutely everyone you know? This is one of those projects. Stick with the ombre trend, or opt for your favorite colors with this easy felt DIY.
Make This: Ombre Felt Christmas Tree
Upholstered Christmas Trees
DIY Upholstered Christmas Trees
When it comes to Christmas trees, I say the more the merrier. This custom tree adds sophistication to any style holiday decor AND it's super easy to store away- so go ahead and make several! A grouping looks phenomenal!
Photo by: Flynnside Out Productions
Flynnside Out Productions
If you like a very tailored, masculine look, these stylish trees are the ones for you. And with easy-to-follow instructions, you can create your own upholstered forest for the holidays.
Make This: Upholstered Christmas Trees
Wooden Outdoor Trees
Brian Patrick Flynn
Not allowed to have a live tree in your apartment or rental home? Show off your Christmas spirit with one (or more!) of these fun outdoor wooden trees with a festive nail-head trim.
Make This: Rustic Nail-Head Christmas Trees
Wine Cork Christmas Tree
If you’re limited on space and happen to have a decent collection of wine corks, this cute tabletop tree is definitely the one for you! Simply attach the corks to a floral foam cone with hot glue. And if you decide to leave it up year round, we certainly wouldn’t blame you.
Christmas Card Tree
Christmas Tree Card Display
Try something new this year with a space-saving, alternative Christmas tree that can even display cards from friends and family. You'll need: 4x8-foot sheet of luan; latex paint or water-based stain; staining pad (if using stain); drill; 1/2-inch paddle bit; colored craft string; upholstery tacks or push pins; 6-foot strand of 12-gauge wire; tennis ball; picture nail; hammer; battery-operated LED twinkle lights; duct tape in metallic finish; scissors; chalk.
Photo by: Brian Patrick Flynn
Brian Patrick Flynn
Perfect for small-space dwellers, this quaint tree does double duty as a Christmas card holder, as well. Surround it with presents and hang the stockings with care for an everything-Christmas corner.
Make This: Christmas Tree Card Display
Blue Christmas
For an ultra-creative way to display your Christmas cheer, try grouping jars, vases and other knickknacks on a bookshelf in the shape of a tree. A few presents at the base should solidify the look.
Fabulous Feathered Tree
Mix in some traditional green with a dramatic jewel-toned tree. As seen in rocker Dee Snyder’s home, this magnificent peacock-feathered variety definitely makes a statement.
Garden Tool Tree
One of my favorite Christmas tree alternatives is this wall tree made from garden tools. And if it wasn’t cool enough, the garland and bulb ornaments really take it over the top.
Wooden Plank Christmas Tree
Outdoor Holiday Wooden Tree
Make a big statement this holiday with a reclaimed wood Christmas tree sculpture. Created from reclaimed barn siding cut in different lengths and attached to a 10-foot 4 x 4 with wood screws. This rustic display adds a unique piece to any outside holiday space.
Great for outdoors and a cute option for inside as well, a lighted plank board Christmas tree is totally Pinterest-worthy. Your friends will be talking about this one for a while.
Make This: Wooden Christmas Tree
Coffee Filter Christmas Tree
This tree utilizes one item most of us have at the ready — the ever useful coffee filter. This project is both cheap and easy, so go ahead and try one in every room.
Make This: Ombre Coffee Filter Christmas Trees
Sheet Music Christmas Tree
Sheet Music Christmas Trees
This sheet music Christmas tree display stands out against a delicate tree branch wreath backdrop.
For music- and shabby-chic-decor lovers alike, these mini music trees are a great alternative to the real thing. Just don’t cut up the Christmas carols — you’re going to need those come party time.
Make This: Sheet Music Christmas Tree
Modern Wall-Mounted Tree
Brian Patrick Flynn
This modern marvel was created with a bit of fabric and MDF trim. And for those who crave sleek, modern lines, this tree definitely fits the bill.
Make This: Wall-Mounted Christmas Tree
21 Alternative Christmas Trees to Try
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