Whether your decorations go up the day after Thanksgiving or you’re more of a last-minute type, there’s no denying that the holidays are quickly approaching. With the rustic style becoming ever more popular, what better decorating theme to choose? If you’re looking to add a rustic touch up to Christmas’ most pivotal piece — the tree — your first step is to choose the right one.
O (Rustic) Christmas Tree
Since the rustic style is all about bringing the outdoors in, a natural evergreen tree is a great choice. Once you’ve picked out and brought home your tree, it’s time to begin decorating. Often, decorating starts with lighting. Though many stores are pushing LEDs, we recommend the softer feel of incandescent light to wrap your tree. They’re more natural and will fit in with your rustic interior design. Also, you won’t be given a headache from bright LED lights. You can add to the rustic theme if you come across specialty lights, like these pinecone-shaped lights.
Deck Those Boughs
With the basics taken care of, you can set out on a new mission: finding the right ornaments. Remember, the rustic style is based in nature, and nature is rough, uneven, and imperfect. Texture is your friend.
Burlap ornaments or garlands create a tree that draws your hands as much as your eyes. Wooden adornments can reinforce your theme without being too bold. Leather pieces (maybe to match your leather armchairs or sofa) are also fitting. And we certainly can’t forget about natural ornaments. From pine cones to acorns, feel free to tuck a few them into the branches of your tree. Pheasant feather are another great way to add a rustic dimension to your tree this year.
Now it’s time to add some color! Christmas is all about red, green, white, and gold, so use them all you want! However, deeper reds and greens will look more natural. If you consider adding a fourth dimension to your tree, add some decorations that give off holiday-time aromas! Although cinnamon and clove ornaments can easily be bought in stores, making your own scented decorations could be a great activity for friends and family.
Final Rustic Touches
The tree stands proud and completed, but don’t forget about what goes underneath. Your Christmas tree is responsible for a vital task: to hold the presents! After putting so much energy into decorating your tree, you won’t want to throw gifts on a bare floor. Instead, use a rustic handwoven rug as a tree skirt. The natural fibers will complement your rustic theme.
Since you have a carefully crafted tree, you ought to cover all of your bases and ensure that comfort is taken care of, too. Throw cozy blankets over your sofa, your favorite armchair, other rustic furniture in your household. When family and friends finally arrive, no matter where they decide to relax, they’ll be warm, no matter how cold it is outside.
There you have it; the hard work is done! The only thing left to do is enjoy your efforts surrounded by friends and family, drink a mulled cider, and share the spirit of Christmas.