Bring the Magic of the Holidays to Your Table with a Handmade Evergreen Arrangement
Immerse yourself in the enchanting aroma of fresh evergreens and the warm glow of candles that set the perfect mood for a festive holiday meal.
A Christmas evergreen centerpiece with candles is a timeless tradition, infusing your home with nostalgia, elegance, and a touch of nature’s beauty.
The best part? Creating your own DIY evergreen centrepiece is a simple, fun, and inexpensive way to reflect your unique style.
Join me as I guide you through creating a stunning evergreen table arrangement that will become the heart of your holiday gatherings.
Gather Your Materials for a DIY Evergreen Centerpiece
Before you begin, collect everything you’ll need. Here’s a handy list:
- Evergreen Branches: Choose a mix of fresh evergreens like pine, fir, cedar, and spruce to create rich textures and delightful fragrances. Complement your arrangement with holly and bare twigs to add depth and interest. Don’t hesitate to combine glossy holly leaves, matte fir, and silvery cedar for a lush effect.
- If possible, snip some from your yard, or pick up a selection from a local florist or garden centre and have them nearby as your floral oasis foam is prepared.
- Candles: Whether you choose real or battery-operated candles, they will beautifully enhance your project. Taper, pillar, or votive candles can all work wonders.
- Opt for unscented varieties to ensure their aroma doesn’t compete with the delicious meals you’ll serve.
- Floral Oasis Foam & a Shallow Tray: The shallow tray holds the floral foam, anchoring your stems and nurturing the greenery.
- It can also reserve extra water to keep your arrangement fresh.
- Waterproof floral tape or Floral Wire: Floral tape or wire will secure the floral oasis to the shallow tray, providing stability.
- Decorative Accents: Incorporate pinecones, berries (real or faux), cinnamon sticks, dried orange slices, ribbons, and ornaments to add your personal touch to the centerpiece.
- Sharp Pruning Shears or Scissors: Ensure your shears are clean to create precise cuts for the branches.
- Optional Items: Other items to consider include a platter or runner to protect your table, and sturdy, fire-safe candle holders can provide a strong anchor for the candles, although the floral oasis will also hold them well.
Step-by-Step DIY Evergreen Centerpiece Assembly Instructions
1. Prep Your Base
Start by soaking the floral oasis foam in water (if you’re using it) for about 15 minutes or until it is fully saturated.
Place it securely inside a shallow tray or dish, and use floral tape or wire to secure the floral foam in place.
The foam will keep your greens fresh for days.
2. Place Your Candles
Consider the number and arrangement of your candles. Odd numbers tend to be visually appealing, although 1 or 2 candles are ideal; 3 or more may feel crowded.
Insert the candle holders (if using) or the candles directly into the floral foam, ensuring they are securely in place.
If using pillar candles, ensure they are firmly positioned upright and maintained at a safe distance from the greenery.
3. Add Your Greenery
I begin the DIY evergreen centerpiece by creating a foundational layer using sturdy spruce and fir branches that lend structure to the entire arrangement.
To get the process started, I place a branch into the oasis at each end of the tray (photo 1) and then fill in branches on the long side of the tray (photo 2).
Then I tuck in more structural branches on the top of the floral foam (photo 3) to create a framework that can hold branches that are more arching and less strong.
Then I begin tucking varying lengths of pine, cedar, other species, and bare branches to create a lush, natural appearance, allowing some pieces to cascade over the edge for added softness.
Fill gaps with smaller sprigs, and if using a tray without foam, layer the branches to create an interlocking effect.
4. Layer in Decorative Elements
Now comes the fun part: embellishing your creation. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Tuck in clusters of red berries for vibrant pops of colour in your DIY evergreen arrangement.
- Seasonal silk flowers, like Poinsettias or Magnolias add texture and colour.
- Disperse pinecones throughout the fresh evergreen centerpiece for rustic charm or layer cinnamon sticks or dried fruit slices for a fragrant touch.
- Weave a festive ribbon throughout or include shimmering ornaments for a hint of sparkle.
- A small strand of battery operated twinkle lights can add a touch of sparkle.
5. Finishing Touches and Safety Tips for Fresh Evergreen Centerpieces
Step back and evaluate your centrepiece, adjusting as needed for balance and fullness.
Ensure no greenery or decorations are within two inches of the candle flames. Stay attentive if lighting candles during your meal—never leave burning candles unattended.
For a worry-free option, consider using LED candles in your evergreen arrangement to provide the ambiance without concern, especially around children or pets.
Personalize Your DIY Evergreen Centerpiece Masterpiece
Every centrepiece tells a story.
- Incorporate sprigs from a tree in your backyard or ribbon in your family tartan.
- Consider adding a few heirloom ornaments or a handmade decoration from a child.
Personal touches will transform your creation into a cherished element of your holiday celebrations.
Tips for Longevity and Style for DIY Table Arrangements
– Keep it low: A lower arrangement fosters intimate conversation across the table.
– Refresh water: If using floral foam, replenish it daily to keep the evergreens hydrated.
– Mist often: Give the foliage a daily spritz to maintain its lushness.
– Rotate your centerpiece: Give each side a turn in the spotlight for even wear.
– Store in a cool place between meals: Storing your centerpiece in a cooler place, like in the basement, will help to ensure freshness and prolong its longevity.
Related: How to Select, Use, and Care for Live Christmas Greenery
Your Holiday Evergreen Centerpiece Crafting is Complete
Creating a Christmas evergreen centrepiece with candles is more than just a craft—it’s a joyful way to welcome the season and gather loved ones around a table brimming with warmth and beauty. With just a handful of materials, a dash of creativity, and a few safety precautions, you can design a centrepiece as unique and unforgettable as your holiday memories.
This season, let your dining table be the heart of your home with a beautiful, handmade evergreen centrepiece.
Ready to take your festive decorating further? Explore the related posts below to learn how to make an evergreen wreath and garland next! Happy crafting!
More to Explore
- How to Make a Christmas Wreath
- How to Make an Evergreen Garland
- How to Make a Front Door Planter with Winter Evergreens
- How to Choose a Healthy Poinsettia
- How to Care for Your Poinsettia in 3 Simple Steps
- How to Choose and Care for a Real Christmas Tree
© Sharon Wallish Murphy © Gardening with Sharon
