I was hunting for wood beads for another project (which is postponed until next year, but will be worth it!), when an idea struck: a little wooden Christmas tree forest. I’m always looking for crafts Arlo can join in on—things that are simple, fun, and durable enough to enjoy beyond the season. This project checks those boxes.
These tiny trees are made from small wooden bits and pieces I found at Michael’s and ordered from Amazon. A bit of paint, Mod Podge, and some glitter brought them to life. Arlo helped paint several, and I finished the details. They now sit on the little ledge in his room and look adorable. Below are the supplies and step-by-step directions so you can make your own.
DIY Wooden Christmas Tree Village
Total Time: 1 Hour (+ Dry Time)
Supplies
Materials used for various tree styles:
Wooden pine tree shapes
Wooden eggs
Stackable wooden rings and wooden beads
Wooden ring holders
Other supplies:
Square wooden beads (for bases)
Wooden stars (tree toppers)
Green craft paint (multiple shades)
White craft paint
Paint brushes
Puffy paint for ornament dots
Mod Podge (or clear craft glue)
Iridescent glitter and iridescent snow effect powder
Hot glue gun or strong wood glue
Directions
1. Paint the wooden pieces in a range of green shades. For trees made from stacked rings, first glue the rings together in a pyramid or cone formation and top with a wooden ball, then paint. Allow pieces to dry completely.
2. Paint the wooden stars in yellow, metallic, or any color you prefer and let them dry.
3. Glue the stars to the top of each tree after the paint has dried.
4. Decorate the trees. A few ideas:
- Use puffy paint to add small dots that look like ornaments.
- For a snowy accent, dab white paint on raised edges or the tips of the wooden pine shapes, then let dry. Brush on a layer of Mod Podge and sprinkle iridescent glitter or snow powder, then allow to dry.
- To make fully sparkly trees, coat the entire piece with Mod Podge and cover with glitter. Shake off excess and let dry.
5. Add another thin layer of Mod Podge over glittered areas to help seal and reduce shedding. Let dry.
6. Glue a square wooden bead to the bottom of each tree to serve as a stable base.
Photos by Jeff Mindell
Crafting with Arlo at this age has been so much fun, even when his attention lasts only a few minutes and the workspace becomes a happy mess. It’s a great reminder to let go of perfection and enjoy the process together.
If you make your own little Christmas forest, I’d love to see a photo—sharing your creations is one of my favorite parts of the season.