Scott from the channel Scott Saws on Skates shares his top nine woodworking projects to help you create festive decorations for the holiday season using scrap wood.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodworker, these projects are budget-friendly and perfect for getting crafty this Christmas.
1. Snowman Lantern
The snowman lantern is a charming addition to your holiday decor. It brings warmth and a cheerful touch to any space, making it an ideal centerpiece for your dining room table or a decorative piece on your fireplace mantle.
This project primarily uses pine boards, but you can also repurpose T111 siding or any leftover plywood. The construction is simple: cut the siding into strips, assemble them with glue and Brad nails, and paint the finished lantern with white craft paint, allowing some of the natural wood to show through for a rustic effect.
For safety, it’s recommended to use flameless LED candles instead of real ones inside the lantern. The printable plan includes a template for the snowman’s face, making the painting process easier, especially for those who may not be confident in their artistic skills.
2. Ice Skate Ornaments
Ornaments are a delightful way to add festive cheer to your Christmas tree, and they can easily be crafted from scrap wood. Scott’s ice skate ornaments are inspired by his grandmother’s fabric versions, featuring painted wooden skates and rustic twine laces.
These ornaments are not only easy to create but also allow for personalization. The printable plan includes a template, making it easy for you to replicate this charming design. You can use various wood materials, such as beadboard or plywood, to create different styles of skates.
3. Snowman Ornaments
Another festive decoration is the snowman ornament, which can be customized to fit your style. Scott’s version mirrors an antique wooden snowman ornament from his collection, featuring a rustic charm and a crackle paint finish.
To create your own, you can follow the printable plan that includes a snowman template. This ornament is a perfect way to bring a touch of nostalgia to your holiday decorations.
4. Mini Pallet Coasters
Coasters are practical gifts that can be easily crafted with leftover wood. Scott’s mini pallet coasters are a fun project that can be transformed into festive pieces through stenciling or wood burning.
These coasters can be personalized with holiday-themed designs, adding a unique touch to your gatherings. The printable plan for the pallet coasters is available for those who want to recreate this project.
5. Wooden Trivet
A wooden trivet is not only functional but can also serve as a beautiful decorative piece for your table. Featuring charming dovetailed feet, this trivet protects your surfaces while adding height to your tablescape.
Once assembled, you can decorate the trivet with wood burning designs, such as Christmas trees or snowflakes, to enhance its festive appeal. The printable plan for this project is available for download.
6. Christmas Village Stocking Holders
Turn your mantle into a winter wonderland with stocking holders shaped like a charming Christmas village. This project is designed to hold stockings for the entire family, including your pets!
The construction involves building little houses from leftover 2x4s and attaching them to a wooden base. With hooks mounted on the front, you can easily hang your stockings. Personalize your village with wood stain or paint to match your decor.
7. Snowman Candle Holder
This snowman candle holder is a delightful decoration that can be enjoyed throughout the winter season. Made from scrap wood and a mason jar, it’s perfect for lighting up your home.
The construction is simple: cut and shape the wood, glue the pieces together, and add a mason jar with an LED tea light. This project not only adds a warm glow to your space but also complements any winter home decor.
8. Church Christmas Card Holder
Organizing Christmas cards can be a challenge, but Scott’s church-shaped card holder provides a whimsical solution. This DIY project allows you to showcase your holiday greetings in style.
Using leftover boards and plywood, you can cut the walls and roof to size and assemble the parts with glue and Brad nails. After painting it with a creamy white chalk-type paint, you’ll have a charming display for your cards.
9. Tabletop Reindeer
Finally, the tabletop reindeer is a fun project that can be customized to fit your holiday decor. Scott’s version features interlocking legs and antlers, allowing it to stand on its own.
This project is perfect for Christmas and can be enjoyed throughout the winter. The printable plan for the reindeer is available for those looking to create their own festive piece.
10. Antique-Style Christmas Sled
Although it might bend the rules a bit for a scrap wood project, Scott’s antique-style sled is a beautiful decoration for the holiday season. It can be used to display gifts or as a standalone decor piece.
Constructed from inexpensive pine boards, this sled is treated with an aged wood accelerator for a rustic look. After sanding and staining, it’s finished with a protective coat of matte polyurethane, making it a stunning addition to your holiday decor.
Conclusion
These nine Christmas scrap wood projects offer a fantastic way to get creative and festive while making use of leftover materials. Whether you’re looking to decorate your home or give thoughtful gifts, these DIY ideas are perfect for the holiday season. For detailed plans and templates for each project, be sure to visit sawsonskates.com.