DIY Fall Tree

One of my favorite ways to add drama to a room is to use large tree branches – either on tables or on the floor. Often, I’ll just cut a branch and keep it in water, much like you would fresh flowers. But, for something that lasts longer and is completely customizable, you can make your own fall tree using a real branch as your base. For this project, I chose to used dried Eucalyptus that has been dyed in fall colors. Dried botanicals are gorgeous, and can be found in endless colors and textures. High quality faux florals would work too.

Supplies

To make this fall tree, you will need a few things. The good news is that the tree branch can be scavenged directly from your own yard. You will also need to consider how you will anchor your tree. Mine is supported by a heavy wood slice with a hole drilled through the middle, but you can also place your branch in a pot, vase, or bucket.

You Will Need:

• Tree branch
• Stump, vase, bucket, etc to support your fall tree
• Dried or faux botanicals(I chose Eucalyptus)
• Floral wire
• Wire snips

Secure Your Tree Branch

Before you begin adding leaves or florals to your tree, you will need to make sure it is upright and stable. Natural branches are rarely straight, so you will need to make sure the base of the branch is very secure.

Here are a couple of options to do that:

Make A Tree Stump Base

To secure your tree branch as I did, you’ll need a heavy tree stump. Make sure to cut the bottom completely flat so you have a steady base. Then, you will drill a hole through the center of the stump. It’s very important to not make a hole that is too big, or you will need to use shims to ensure your branch fits tightly and stays upright. I used bits of cardboard around my branch for a snug fit. If you are concerned about the tree tipping, you can also screw your branch into the base. Remember, the tree will get very top heavy once extra stems are added.

Concrete

If you are using a pot, bucket, or urn as the base of your fall tree, I recommend placing the branch in concrete first. To do this, simply place the branch in a small pot and fill with premixed concrete. Once dry, you can slip the concrete pot into your decorative vase or planter.

Chicken Wire Form

For smaller tree branches, you can use chicken wire to support your tree. Simply bend and fold the wire to fit into your decorative vessel. Work your tree branch through the wire so it is supported and stands upright.

Sort And Wire Botanicals

To make decorating your fall tree easier, begin by sorting through your botanicals. Group by type, color, texture, or size so you have a good idea of what you are working with. I made small bunches of 2-3 stems and wired them together before adding them to the tree. These bundles made it easier to control the bulk of my stems. I left the largest and the smallest branches out of my bundles, so I could add them later as needed.

Wire Stems Onto Branches

Now that you have your branches sorted and bundled, it’s time to start building your tree. Take a large stem and wire it onto a branch. I find it’s easiest for me if I cut lots of wire before I get started. Then I just grab a stem and piece of wire and secure it to the tree.

To keep the tree looking more natural, try to line your stem up so it appears to be growing from the tree. Natural splits are a great place to start. Don’t fight the direction the branch leans. Instead, try to place it so it falls along the same lines as your tree branch. Allow the leaves to rest in branches and also fall freely for a natural look. Remember, nature isn’t usually symmetrical – don’t stress over rogue limbs!

Continue adding your other stems and bundles until the tree is filled out to your liking. I chose to leave some branches bare for added texture. Fill in using small stems if you have bare spots that need more “oomph”.

Enjoy Your Fall Tree

Take a step back and admire your creation! I just love the color, texture, and drama this tree adds to my fall decor. For now it’s going to live on my fireplace hearth, but it would also look amazing on a console or porch. Smaller trees would be perfect for a table centerpiece. Get outside, enjoy gathering your supplies, and bring the outdoors in! Happy Creating!