If you love the rustic look and the farmhouse style, why not decorate your Christmas tree in the theme this year. Not only does it look incredible, it gives your tree a natural and rustic festive vibe which feels really cozy. And if you’re wondering how to decorate a farmhouse Christmas tree, we have all the ideas you need. Plus decorating your tree’s a breeze with our easy step-by-step process.
Your Christmas tree will have so much festive, natural rustic charm that you’ll want to keep it up all year. By following these steps you’ll have the farmhouse tree of your dreams. You can skip to any step from the bullet points below, so if you get stuck decorating, you can click to where you’re up to.
- Choosing the Right Christmas Tree
- Farmhouse Christmas Tree Ornaments
- Garland Ideas for a Farmhouse Christmas Tree
- Choosing the Perfect Tree Topper for a Farmhouse Christmas Tree
- How to Light a Farmhouse Christmas Tree: Tips for the Perfect Glow
- The Perfect Tree Skirt for a Farmhouse Christmas Tree
- Finishing Touches for Your Farmhouse Christmas Tree
- Farmhouse Christmas Tree Ideas for Different Spaces
- Outdoor Farmhouse Christmas Trees for Porches or Gardens
- Mixing Farmhouse Style with Other Décor Themes
What Is Farmhouse Christmas Décor?
Alright, let’s get started by talking about what farmhouse Christmas decor is. If you’ve been scrolling through Pinterest, you’ve probably seen those beautiful trees adorned with rustic, vintage ornaments, lots of natural textures, and maybe a bit of plaid. That’s farmhouse decor in a nutshell.
It’s all about blending old-school charm with a modern, cozy feel. It blends festive nostalgia, with rustic themes and elements that you can add modern twists to create a unique look.
Your farmhouse decor is about intentional choices. It’s not just about making things look old or rustic; it’s about creating a warm, inviting atmosphere using natural elements and vintage-inspired pieces.
Choosing the Right Christmas Tree
Whether you go for real or artificial, it’s all about choosing a tree with the right shape, size, and texture. A tree with a more natural, less-perfect look suits the farmhouse style. Branches that aren’t packed too tightly together are ideal as it gives you space to showcase your ornaments without your tree looking overcrowded.
Real tree
Go for something like a Fraser Fir or a Norway Spruce if you like to have a real Christmas tree. They have that natural, slightly imperfect look that’s perfect for this style. Plus, they smell amazing, which just adds to the cozy vibe.
Artificial Tree
If you are buying an artificial tree, go for one that mimics the look of a real one. A pre-lit tree can work well if you are looking for an easier decorating option.
The trick to getting that natural look for your branches with an artificial tree comes down to fluffing the branches. So, you don’t need to head out and buy a new tree to create the farmhouse look. Spending just a few extra minutes fluffing each branch can make a world of difference. It fills out the tree and gives it a more natural appearance.
Tree Size
Don’t stress about the size of your tree. Whether you have a larger or a smaller tree you can still decorate your Christmas tree with a farmhouse look. It comes down to the décor you choose, not the size of your tree.
If you’re working with a small space, go for a mini farmhouse tree that you can place on a tabletop or in the entryway. It’s all about making it work for your home, not trying to recreate someone else’s setup.
Farmhouse Christmas Tree Ornaments
When it comes to a farmhouse Christmas tree, you want your ornament to feel nostalgic, warm, and just a bit rustic. To get the look mix old-fashioned, handmade pieces with natural elements to create that cozy, lived-in look.
You don’t need to use every rustic-looking ornament you can find. It’s about picking a few key pieces that you like and that work together to create a cohesive look.
Rustic Ornaments for a Farmhouse Feel
Wooden stars, galvanized metal bells, and small chalkboard tags are all fantastic choices. These types of ornaments give your tree that vintage, farmhouse charm without feeling too flashy. Tiny metal buckets that you might find at a local craft store can make quirky farmhouse style ornaments. They add a metallic and down-to-earth look to the tree.
Another great option is to use natural elements like pinecones and dried orange slices. It sounds simple, but these little touches make a big impact. Avid anything overly glittery or shiny and stick to matte or wooden ornaments, which feel true to the rustic farmhouse style of decor.
Add Nostalgia to Your Tree Decorations
Antique glass baubles, old-fashioned Christmas figurines, and even those cute little ceramic houses can make your tree look like it’s stepped out of a Christmas past. Heirloom ornaments that have been passed down through generations fit well with the farmhouse style of decorations. Even if they’re a bit faded, add them as that’s what makes them special.
The little imperfections are how you add the nostalgic touch when you decorate a farmhouse Christmas tree. Character and a story are exactly what farmhouse decor is all about.
If you don’t have those kinds of ornaments, go for decorations that have muted colors, tarnished finishes, and simple, classic designs.
DIY Ornaments
Cinnamon stick stars or dried orange slices are the easiest DIY craft ornaments you can make to give your tree that rustic look. If you’re up for a little crafting, try making some salt dough ornaments. They’re easy, inexpensive, and you can customize them however you like. Make stars, hearts, or anything you like then. paint with a bit of white chalk paint for that rustic, farmhouse look.
A Few Tips for Hanging Ornaments
- When you’re hanging ornaments, don’t just place them on the outer branches. Tuck a few inside the tree, closer to the trunk. It adds depth and makes the tree look fuller
- Try grouping similar ornaments together in clusters of three to create a more balanced, intentional look.
- Don’t stress about making everything symmetrical. Farmhouse style is meant to feel relaxed and a little bit imperfect. If one side of the tree has a few more pinecones or stars, that’s okay.
Garland Ideas for a Farmhouse Christmas Tree
When you style a farmhouse Christmas tree, the garland should add texture and warmth. You can choose how you decorate your farmhouse Christmas tree with a garland, choosing from natural garlands to fabric choices that fit the rustic theme perfectly.
Natural Garland Ideas
An all-natural garland of dried eucalyptus leaves and pinecones looks amazing. Plus, the eucalyptus gives off a fresh scent that makes your whole room smell like a winter forest, no matter where you put your tree.
If you’re looking for an easy, low-cost garland option, try stringing cranberries. It’s classic, it’s festive, and it gives your tree a pop of color without being too bold.
Another great natural option is a garland made from cotton stems. It sounds odd, but it adds this lovely, soft texture that makes the tree feel cozy and inviting.
Fabric Garlands: Burlap, Lace, and Plaid Ribbons
Fabric garlands are another fantastic way to add farmhouse flair to your tree. Burlap is a go-to for many folks because it’s simple and rustic. But you can also use lace for a touch of vintage elegance. Plaid ribbon is another option, whether your go for the traditional red and green, or a different color combination in your plaid for a more modern twist on your Christmas farmhouse style.
Mixing up your fabrics is a great way to add character and texture if you can’t decide which you prefer. A mix of plaid and lace ribbons gives your tree a beautiful, layered look. Just be sure not to wrap the garland too tightly. It should drape loosely to create a relaxed, effortless feel.
If you’re using ribbon garlands, cut them into shorter lengths instead of trying to wrap one long piece around the whole tree. It’s way easier to manage, and you can adjust the placement without having to start over every time.
Layering Garlands for a Full, Textured Look
If you want your farmhouse Christmas tree to have that full, layered look, try using more than one type of garland. Start with a base of burlap or ribbon, then add a string of wooden beads or cranberry garland on top. The mix of textures adds depth and makes the tree look more interesting.
Choosing the Perfect Tree Topper for a Farmhouse Christmas Tree
A farmhouse Christmas tree topper feels rustic, handmade, and a bit nostalgic. It’s like the final touch that takes your tree from “nice” to “wow.” So, what makes a good farmhouse-style tree topper? Think simple and natural.
Classic Farmhouse Tree Toppers
One of the easiest choices is a large burlap bow. It’s simple, elegant, and gives your tree a cozy, homespun feel. You can make your own using wide burlap ribbon with wired edges that makes it easy to shape.
Another popular choice is a wooden or metal star. This fits right in with the rustic, vintage look of a farmhouse Christmas tree. It’s simple but makes a big statement, especially if you have some string lights behind it to create a warm glow.
Vintage Angel Toppers
If you’re a fan of the more traditional route, a vintage angel topper can be a great fit for a farmhouse tree. Look for one with a soft, fabric dress and a weathered, old-world appearance.
A statement piece can really elevate the whole look of your tree. Just make sure it’s in proportion with your tree. You don’t want it to look like the topper is about to topple the whole tree over. Use a bit of floral wire or sturdy ribbon to tie the topper to the top branch. It’s a small step, but it saves you from having to straighten it every five minutes.
How to Light a Farmhouse Christmas Tree: Tips for the Perfect Glow
Getting the lighting right can make or break your farmhouse Christmas tree. Too few lights and it looks sad and sparse; too many and you lose the rustic charm in a sea of blinding brightness.
Choosing the Right Lights for a Farmhouse Tree
For a farmhouse look, warm white or soft yellow lights are your best bet. They give off that cozy, candlelit glow that fits perfectly with the rustic, vintage feel you’re going for.
If you want to add a bit of extra charm, consider using string lights with larger, vintage-style bulbs. They give off a soft, warm light that feels nostalgic, like the kind you’d see strung up on a barn during a country Christmas. Edison bulb string lights on the tree can make the whole room felt warmer and more inviting.
If you are looking for a more traditional farmhouse look you could try adding battery operated candle lights to your tree. This style will add a touch of vintage nostalgia to your farmhouse decor, while making your home feel warm and relaxing.
How to String Lights for Maximum Impact
Instead of just wrapping the lights around the outside of the tree in a spiral (like I used to do), try weaving them in and out of the branches. Start at the base and work your way up, making sure to push some of the lights deeper into the tree. This creates a layered effect that makes the tree look fuller and more dimensional. It’s a bit more work, but it’s worth it.
Use two different types of lights for added depth. Mix a set of smaller twinkle lights with a set of slightly larger globe lights. The contrast in size and brightness creates a beautiful, dynamic look that’s far more interesting than using just one type.
The Perfect Tree Skirt for a Farmhouse Christmas Tree
We’ve covered the tree from top to bottom, almost. The right tree skirt or tree collar can complete the entire look of your farmhouse Christmas tree. It pulls everything together and gives your tree that polished, complete look. Plus, it’s a great way to hide that awkward metal stand or any tangled cords.
Burlap and Natural Fabric Tree Skirts
When it comes to farmhouse style, burlap is the classic choice. It’s rustic, it’s versatile, and it has that lovely homemade look. A plain burlap skirt with a bit of frayed edging adds that extra touch of charm. It’s simple but adds texture, which is key when you’re aiming for a cozy, farmhouse vibe.
Look for burlap skirts with simple designs and neutral colors. You want the skirt to complement your tree, not steal the show.
Tree Collars: A Modern Farmhouse Touch
If you haven’t jumped on the tree collar trend yet, consider it this year. Tree collars are basically a ring that sits around the base of your tree, hiding the stand and giving everything a tidy, finished look. They’re perfect for farmhouse decor because you can find ones made of galvanized metal, wicker, or even wood.
They eliminate all the fuss of positioning a skirt and look amazing. A distressed metal tree collar looks great with a farmhouse tree as it looks like a bucket. The metal just works incredibly well with the natural, vintage, and texture of the farmhouse style.
Make sure to measure the base of your tree stand before you buy a collar to ensure you keep your stress-free holiday vibes going. They are not a one size fits all purchase.
Hiding the Base: Clever Tricks for a Seamless Look
Tree stands aren’t exactly the prettiest things in the world and sometimes you don’t want a skirt or a tree collar. Wrap a few small gift boxes and place them strategically around the base. It hides any awkward spots and makes the tree look fuller right from the start.
Another idea is to use a wooden crate or a vintage bucket as a makeshift stand. Just make sure your tree is secure and won’t tip over. Using a metal bucket for a tree skirt is perfect when you decorate a smaller Christmas tree in the farmhouse style. It adds that farmhouse vibe and is perfect if you have a real tree you need to water. You can also consider using a burlap sack when you decorate a smaller Christmas tree in a farmhouse style to create a truly rustic and natural look.
Finishing Touches for Your Farmhouse Christmas Tree
If you are the type of person who just loves to add that little bit extra to your tree, there are certain farmhouse style finishing touches you can add to give your tree that extra festive touch. Whether it’s a small wooden sign, a sprig of cotton, or a personalized touch like family photos, these extras personalise your style to create an absolutely stunning Christmas tree you’ll love.
Adding Wooden Signs, Wreaths, and Cotton Stems
Those classic farmhouse-style extras: wooden signs, mini wreaths, and cotton stems are the types of decorations that make your tree feel like it’s stepped right out of a cozy, country Christmas scene. Wooden signs are versatile and easy to find. You can go with a simple “Merry Christmas” or “Joy” sign. You can even get creative and make your own to add a quick, easy, homemade touch to your tree.
Another great idea is to add small wreaths to your tree. Little grapevine wreaths have that raw, natural look. You can tie a bit of burlap or plaid ribbon around them and tuck them into the branches. It’s an unexpected element that really gives the tree a layered, textured feel. Eucalyptus wreaths work too on your Christmas tree, adding a gorgeous pop of green.
Cotton stems look amazing. The fluffy white cotton against the dark green branches of your Christmas tree gives it a fresh from the field vibe that’s perfect for farmhouse decor. A few stems from a craft store, trimmed down, and tucked into the branches is such a simple addition that makes the tree feel fuller and softer. It also adds another texture which is warm and elegant.
Personalised Ornaments
Personalized decorations are what make your tree truly yours. Tells a story about your family this Christmas by adding family photos, handmade tags, or little ornaments with your names on. Hanging up old family photos as ornaments is a great way to do this. Print images in black and white and pop them into tiny rustic frames.
Farmhouse Christmas Tree Ideas for Different Spaces
Farmhouse Christmas decor isn’t just for big trees in the living room. You can bring that cozy, rustic charm to any space, whether it’s a tiny apartment or an outdoor porch. Let’s explore a few ideas for decorating trees in different areas, so you can spread that farmhouse magic throughout your home.
Mini Farmhouse Trees for Tabletops or Entryways
Mini trees are perfect for tabletops, entryways, or even as a centerpiece on your dining table. A small tree of about 1 to 2 feet can add charm to any area of your home.
For mini trees, keep the decorations simple and scaled down to achieve a farmhouse style. Small burlap bows, tiny pinecones, and maybe a strand of fairy lights will help you to get the look you want. You can even decorate with a big tree and then add a few smaller trees in the farmhouse style to keep the look cohesive throughout your house.
You can also make your own DIY craft ornaments for a small tree to decorate in the farmhouse style. Mini salt dough ornaments, just for your little tree, turned out cute. Mini trees are also a great place to use up any leftover scraps of ribbon or twine you have from decorating your main tree.
Outdoor Farmhouse Christmas Trees for Porches or Gardens
If you’ve got a porch or outdoor space, why not add a farmhouse Christmas tree out there too? It’s a great way to welcome guests and set the tone for your holiday decor before they even step inside. Go for a more natural look with your outdoor tree to get the farmhouse look, using pinecones, wooden ornaments, and lots of greenery.
A small tree in a galvanized metal bucket on your front porch, wrapped with a thick burlap ribbon and a few large wooden stars hanging from the branches is an easy way to decorate your front porch for Christmas. Simple, but it feels so cozy and festive.
The trick with outdoor trees is to use weather-resistant decorations. You don’t want your beautiful DIY ornaments to get ruined in the rain. Stick to items, like pinecones, wood slices, and heavy-duty ribbons, that can handle the elements.
Mixing Farmhouse Style with Other Décor Themes
Farmhouse style is versatile. It plays well with other decor themes, so if you’ve home has a more modern or boho vibe, don’t be afraid to mix it in with your farmhouse Christmas tree. A rustic chic style with a mix of raw wood elements and a few sparkly, metallic touches looks elegant and feels festive and homely.
Blend a bit of boho style into your farmhouse décor by adding some macramé ornaments and feathers alongside the usual burlap and wood decorations. The key to blending is to stick to a consistent color palette. Keep everything in neutral tones with pops of white and gold, to bring it together for a beautiful festive boho farmhouse theme tree.
Conclusion
Now you know how to decorate a farmhouse style Christmas tree you’ll be able to have the tree you’ve always wanted this year. It’s about more than just decorating your tree though. It’s about telling a story, creating memories, and making your home feel like a cozy winter retreat. So what are you waiting for, get decorating today.
