This DIY 2x4 Christmas tree is a rustic, 3-foot (91 cm) freestanding tree made from just two 8 ft 2x4s. Seven horizontal "branches" step down in size from 24 inches to 6 inches, mounted on a center post with a stable base. Every cut is a straight crosscut, so it's a perfect beginner project, and you can finish it in an afternoon. Leave it natural, stain it, or paint it white for a snowy look.
It's also a rustic decor piece you'll often see at holiday markets (see our list of woodworking projects that sell at craft fairs). For more holiday ideas, see our Christmas woodworking gifts.
At a glance
- Finished size
- 24 in wide × 36 in tall
- Skill
- Beginner
- Time
- 2–3 hours plus finish
- Lumber
- Two 8 ft 2x4s
- Fasteners
- 2-1/2 in wood screws
Beginner shortcut
Love quick 2x4 builds? The TedsWoodworking library has plenty of 2x4 and holiday decor projects with exact cut lists, so you can build a matching set.
Materials list
- 2 × 2x4 boards, 8 ft (choose straight, dry boards)
- About 24 × 2-1/2 in wood screws
- Wood glue (optional)
- 120 grit sandpaper
- Stain, paint or a clear finish
- A wooden or metal star for the top (optional)
Cut list
| Part | Qty | Length |
|---|---|---|
| A. Branch 1 (bottom) | 1 | 24 in |
| B. Branch 2 | 1 | 21 in |
| C. Branch 3 | 1 | 18 in |
| D. Branch 4 | 1 | 15 in |
| E. Branch 5 | 1 | 12 in |
| F. Branch 6 | 1 | 9 in |
| G. Branch 7 (top) | 1 | 6 in |
| H. Center post | 1 | 36 in |
| I. Feet | 2 | 14 in |
Cutting layout
- Board 1: branches A, B, C, D and E (24 + 21 + 18 + 15 + 12 = 90 in)
- Board 2: center post, both feet, and branches F and G (36 + 14 + 14 + 9 + 6 = 79 in)
Tools
- Miter saw or circular saw with a speed square
- Drill/driver
- Tape measure, pencil and square
- Clamps
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1: Cut and sand
Cut every part and label it. Sand the cut ends and round over sharp edges lightly with 120 grit.
Step 2: Mark the center of each branch
Mark a line across the middle of each branch. You'll line these up with the center of the post so the tree looks even.
Step 3: Attach the feet to the post
Stand the post (H) upright, with its wide face toward the front. Place one foot (I) on each side of the post, standing on edge and running front to back, with the post centered along their length and all the bottoms flush. Screw through each foot into the post with three 2-1/2 in screws. The tree should now stand on its own.
Step 4: Mark the branch positions
Measure up 8 inches from the floor and mark the post. That's where the bottom of the lowest branch goes. Each branch is 3-1/2 inches tall, so the seven branches stack up to 32-1/2 inches, leaving 3-1/2 inches of post at the top for a star.
Step 5: Attach the branches
Starting with the longest, lay each branch flat against the front of the post, centered on its mark. Clamp it, then drive two screws from the back of the post into each branch. Stack each branch directly on top of the one below.
Step 6: Finish
Stain, paint, or leave it natural. Dry-brushing white paint over a dark stain gives a snowy, weathered look. Use an exterior finish if it will live on a covered porch.
Holiday builds
Build a whole set of holiday decor
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Decorating ideas
- Warm white string lights wrapped around the branches (battery-powered lights are easiest).
- Small ornaments on cup hooks screwed into the bottom of each branch.
- Stencilled words on the branches, such as "Joy", "Peace" or your family name.
- A plywood star cut with a jigsaw and painted gold.
Variations
| Version | How |
|---|---|
| Tabletop tree | Use 1x2s for the branches and halve every length (12 in bottom branch, 18 in post) |
| Tall porch tree | Use 2x6s for the branches and a 48 in post |
| Pair for the front door | Build two and set one on each side |
| Wall tree | Skip the feet and hang it from a cleat |
New to 2x4 builds? Our 2x4 workbench plan uses the same simple screw joinery, and our Halloween wood projects are great for using up offcuts.
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FAQ
How many 2x4s do I need for a 2x4 Christmas tree?
Two 8 ft 2x4s make this 36 in tree, including the base.
Can a 2x4 Christmas tree go outside?
Yes, on a covered porch with an exterior finish. For uncovered spots, use pressure-treated or cedar lumber and exterior paint.
How do I make it stand without tipping?
The two 14 in feet give a wide front-to-back base. On windy porches, add a small sandbag behind it or screw the feet to a plywood square.
