How to Create a Pinecone Christmas Centerpiece

Christmas decorations have become increasingly commercial. One way to bring a natural look to your Christmas décor is by integrating items from nature, such as pinecones. Pinecones look like miniature Christmas trees and have long been associated with Christmas, so they are a natural choice. By adding pine-scented potpourri to your centerpiece, you bring the scent of the outdoors in as well. The green and silver complete the centerpiece with the traditional colors of Christmas.

Things You'll Need

• 1 to 2 dozen pinecones
• 6 green, shiny, round Christmas ornaments
• 6 silver, shiny, round Christmas ornaments
• 1 medium basket
• Plush red cloth to line the basket
• Pine-scented potpourri
• Scissors

Instructions

1. Take a walk outside and pick up one to two dozen pinecones. If you live in an area that does not have pine trees, go to a craft store where you can purchase pinecones. Try to find pinecones of varying sizes to make the arrangement more interesting.

2. Place the pinecones in plastic zip bags and place in the freezer overnight if you use pinecones from your home. This kills any bugs that may have made a home in the pinecones without resorting to chemical sprays.

3. Purchase green and silver Christmas ornaments that are round and shiny. They should be about half the size of the pinecones you are using. You should not use ornaments that are family favorites, because the pinecones will scratch them. Instead, try to find inexpensive ornaments at a discount store or yard sale.

4. Cut the cloth to line the basket. Cloth should just be visible over the sides of the basket once the ornaments and pinecones have been arranged.

5. Layer the pinecones, potpourri, the green and silver Christmas ornaments in the basket. Take your time so that the ornaments are not unduly scratched. The silver and green should be visible through the pinecones, and there should be several on the top layer as well.

Tips & Warnings

• The color of the Christmas ornaments and cloth can be changed to better fit your Christmas décor.

• The size of the basket can be larger or smaller; simply add or reduce the number of pinecones and ornaments you use.

• Always take care when handling glass ornaments.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish