(Nearly!) Free Christmas Planters You Can Assemble in a Snap

Create a "Perimeter"

Start off this simple arrangement by lining the edge of the container with wide, sturdy branches. Christmas tree clippings are ideal for this. If the branches don’t sit well in the container, put floral foam in the bottom first and stick branches into it. This framework will hold the branches in place, supporting the arrangement as you continue to add clippings. Tip: Wear gloves to protect hands from needle pricks and sap, if desired.

Add Texture and Variety

Use heavy-duty scissors or garden shears to cut branches to size, if necessary. Tuck cut branches and sprigs of greenery inside the perimeter you created in the last step (Image 1). Use a variety of greens in different colors, leaf/needle sizes, and textures (Image 2). Tip: Don’t overthink this step. The pinecones and lights will fill any gaps. Leave smaller pieces of greenery to add in the final step.

Tuck In Pinecones

Nestle two to three pinecones into greenery. Sugar pinecones are especially suited to this project, since they are large and long, but any pinecones can be used.

Add Lights

Weave a strand of string lights throughout the arrangement. A string of 25-50 lights will be plenty.

Fill the Gaps

Tuck sticks, twigs and the remaining small sprigs of greenery around the pinecones to fill any gaps (Image 1). This arrangement is beautiful in its natural simplicity but ribbons, ornaments, Christmas picks, and even spray flocking can easily be added to make it even more festive. Your cut greenery display should last two weeks or longer in cold climates (Image 2).