2015 Christmas Tree Project with Old frames and trim

As you know if you follow my blog, I don't currently put up a traditional Christmas tree. Every year for the past 4 or 5 years, I've put up an alternative to a traditional tree.

 I even have a Pinterest board dedicated to pinning unusual tree ideas.

 

This year I was inspired by a pin from Lucy Designs.  She took trim molding and old frames and makes some fabulous all white trees that have been featured in magazines.

I was inspired by her designs and a pile of old frames to do a similar project for myself.

 

First I gathered and took apart various old frames I had from past projects.  I look for  old frames at garage sales and scoop them up when they are a good price.  I laid them out in my barn until I had the basic design I was looking for. I was going to use frames for the base, but later changed my mind. I used an old ornate hinge for the topper.

Next I pulled out some scrap wood and my screw driver and began drilling from the back to secure the wood in place. This took awhile to get it all just right.  In the end the back looked like this. No pretty but strong.

 And there you have it.  My version of this project involved some moderate woodworking skills. I did use my miter saw on a few pieces and the drill as well.  but if you had enough frames you probably would not need the miter saw.

I like the variation of colors, and in person you can see the dimension that the old and sometimes shabby frames give it. Watch in the next few days for some more  Christmas projects, past and present.

 

I probably won't use this as my substitute tree this year, but It's a fun decoration item. Right now it's on my porch, until I'm ready to start really decorating for Christmas.