Did you know you can get FREE Christmas Tree trimmings from Home Depot? I heard rumors of such marvelous news on Instagram and decided to check it out for myself. Turns out, the rumors were true! My Home Depot had a designated area in their Christmas Tree lot just for the trimmings. The worker said I could help myself, so I did! I brought home a couple varieties and a whole bunch of branches so I would have plenty to create a couple centerpieces.
Whether you go large or small, I think the arrangements are a perfect addition to your Christmas decor. If you use faux Christmas trees, this is a nice way to bring in the scent of real pine to your home without the fuss of a real tree. Or if you’re like me and live in a small space and/or travel a lot during Christmas, they make for a fun Christmas Tree alternative.
Tips for Using a Basket
In order to use a basket, you’ll want to line your basket with a plastic bag and then place a bowl inside the basket. I used floral oasis (available at craft stores). Soak your floral oasis following the package directions. Place soaked oasis inside the bowl and start arranging your branches. Cut the branches to whatever height and stick into oasis. In addition to the pine branches, I also used a few Magnolia tree clippings from the yard (these branches were a bonus and totally would work without).
Once you have your greenery in place, you can add your ornaments. I used a variety of ornaments I already had in shades of red, gold and silver. I then added a string of battery-powered lights to really give it a Christmas tree feel.
For the smaller arrangement, the magnolia tree clippings were a little more dominate, but it would have also worked with just pine branches. I then added white roses as well. The process was similar to using the basket, but I didn’t have to line the container. I just placed the oasis in my brass pot and started arranging.
Looking for more Christmas decor inspiration? Be sure to check out how I’ve used cranberries this year on my post 3 Ways to Use Cranberries in Your Christmas Decor.
