Rustic Christmas Decorating Ideas

The rustic Christmas look evokes a simple country holiday.

For many people, putting up Christmas decorations is a vital part of establishing the holiday atmosphere. Whether you live in a cabin in the snow-frosted woods or are just drawn to the old-fashioned, handmade look, these decorating ideas will help you create a rustic Christmas to remember.

Pine Wreaths

The smell of pine is the smell of Christmas.

Instead of plasticky pre-made wreaths, buy fresh-cut pine boughs from a sustainable source and dedicate an afternoon to making your own wreaths. (Play traditional or bluegrass-style Christmas tunes, bake a batch of gingerbread cookies and invite some friends over---make it a party.) If you live in an area where pine trees don't grow, then incorporate native vegetation from your region---such as flowers, berries or grasses---into the wreaths.

Mason Jar Mantle

Mason jars make lovely candy holders.

Make a dozen or more batches of dry cookie mix (incorporating flour, sugar, spices and add-ins like chocolate chips) with the ingredients layered in Mason jars. Choose recipes that evoke the Christmas season, such as gingerbread cookies, sugar cookies and spritz cookies. Seal the jars. Print the directions for baking the cookies in small, handwriting-like font on brown paper tags. Tie the tags to the jars with twine and accent with a jaunty bow of red-and-white or green-and-white gingham ribbon. Line up the jars on your fireplace mantle. Whenever you have guests over to celebrate the holiday, invite them each to take a jar at the end of the party.

Tree Ornaments

Popcorn garlands on outdoor pines are a delicious bird treat.

Buy or make simple ornaments to hang on your Christmas tree. Cut raw wood into "primitive" shapes, such as doves with asymmetrical wings or stars with crooked, skinny arms. Leave the wood raw or paint one side of each ornament in a rustic color (deep rust red, marigold yellow or eggshell white), let dry, and apply an antiquing treatment. Instead of the shiny metallic garlands that have become commonplace, string your own garlands of popcorn and cranberries (a needle and waxed dental floss makes this task much easier). Garnish the tree with pine cones and artisan-made candy canes.

References

• Fabulous Foods: Christmas Cookie Mix in a Jar
• Ocean Spray: Cranberry Garland

Resources

• Colonial Williamsburg: How to Make a Wreath