BRANCH out
CHRISTMAS in New Zealand is hot and naturally upbeat, so there’s no reason to summon the dark days of Europe with a pine when a driftwood tree would be just as fitting. Creating your own Christmas ‘‘tree’’ can also be a fun way to involve the family in building the festive spirit, so get crafty. 1. Zig-zag lights tree: This comes to life after dark. Create a tall triangular shape on ply by using string fixed at each corner as a guide to fix screws or nails about 10cm apart. Do one side at a time, with screws/nails on the opposite side spaced halfway between the others for a zig-zag look. Loop lights, plug in, enjoy. 2. Crepe paper tree: Make a tree shape from heavy card, board or foam (you can join pieces). Cut lengths of green crepe paper. Along each piece, cut thin fringe strips 10mm wide or less, leaving a joining band at the top. Stick the paper to the ‘‘tree’’ in overlapping layers (work from the bottom). For a trunk, use brown paper bags. 3. Pallet tree: A Kiwi-as approach based on upcycling. Retain the pallet’s central supporting beam and cut the planks into a triangular shape. You can paint it, cover in wrapping paper, add lights or decorate like an advent calendar with treats to open each day as you count down. 4. Gift showcase tree: To make this simple, selfstanding design, cut two pieces of ply with right angles on one side and the pointy, tapering shape of pine branches on the other. A square base helps support the pieces once joined. Perfect place to show off your gifts. 5. Driftwood tree: Embrace the beachy, summer vibe with a collection of driftwood in graduated shapes. Fix these in pine-tree form to a large central piece using nails, screws and glue. Paint and decorate as you see fit. 6. Macrame hanging tree: Cut thin planks of wood in progressively wider lengths. Drill two holes in both ends of each, paint the wood, then thread holes with macrame or rope to create a hanging ‘‘tree’’. Fill shelves with cards, baubles, lights or anything. 7. Minimalist tree: This wall-mounted design makes a chic statement. Cut pieces of dowel and hot glue tinsel or fresh greenery (eg, rosemary) on. Attach to the wall with painters tape so they can be removed without damage. 8. Painted silhouette: Paint a piece of ply with the black silhouette of a tree. Attach 5cm-10cm pieces of dowel with wood glue then paint or stain; these will blend in and serve as hooks for decorations. Live at the beach? Craft a driftwood tree.