Making an outdoor Christmas tree frame is a fun DIY project that can add a festive touch to your home’s exterior during the holiday season. With some basic supplies and a bit of creativity, you can build a sturdy frame designed to hold a live tree or an artificial one.
Introduction
An outdoor Christmas tree frame allows you to decorate the front of your home with a beautifully lit tree without having to place the actual tree on your lawn. The frame provides structure and support for the tree, while also elevating it off the ground for better visibility.
Constructing your own frame is much more affordable than purchasing a premade stand, and it allows you to customize the size and design. It’s also a great weekend project to do with friends or family. Follow the steps below to learn how to make your own outdoor Christmas tree frame this holiday season.
Gather Your Supplies
You’ll need the following supplies:
- 1-2 pieces of 3-4 inch PVC pipe 10-12 feet long (adjust length based on desired tree height)
- 4 pieces of 1-2 inch PVC pipe 3 feet long for sides
- PVC connectors and joints: T’s, 90° elbows, and 4-way crosses
- PVC primer and cement
- Sandpaper
- Spray paint in desired color
- Eye bolts and turnbuckles
- Strong rope or cable
- Wire cutters
- Drill
Optional supplies:
- Wooden base for stabilty
- Small LED spotlights
Cut and Connect the PVC Pipe Frame
- Using the 3-4 inch pipes, cut two pieces that are the desired height of your tree stand. These will serve as the main vertical supports.
- Cut the four 1-2 inch pipes to 3 feet long. These will create the horizontal support bars.
- Sand down rough edges on the cut pipes. Wipe away debris.
- Use PVC primer and cement to connect the T’s and elbows to the vertical support pipes. This will create the top and bottom of the frame.
- Insert the horizontal support bars into the elbows and 4-way crosses. Cement in place.
- Allow all cemented areas to dry completely according to instructions.
Add Stability and Design Details
- Drill pilot holes and screw eye bolts into the vertical support posts, one near the top and one towards the bottom.
- Use strong cable or rope to create an X shape between the eye bolts for extra stability. Use turnbuckles to tighten.
- Use spray paint to cover the entire frame in your desired color. Allow to dry fully.
- Drill small holes into the frame if you wish to add LED spotlights for extra twinkle. Run any electrical cords neatly along the pipes.
- Consider anchoring the finished frame to a wooden base on the ground for extra stability.
Set Up and Decorate Your Tree
Once your Christmas tree frame is constructed and painted, setup is easy:
- Place the frame upright in your desired outdoor location. Make sure the base is firmly planted.
- Secure your artificial tree within the frame using zip ties or rope. Or, set your live tree into the frame and use ropes to stabilize.
- Decorate the tree as desired with lights, ornaments, garlands and a tree topper.
- Plug in the tree lights and any added spotlights to illuminate your display.
- Consider adding Christmas decorations around the base for extra flair.
- Enjoy the frame for seasons to come by storing it safely after the holidays.
With a custom Christmas tree frame, you can have a gorgeous illuminated tree as the centerpiece of your outdoor holiday decor. Follow the construction steps closely for a safe and long-lasting PVC pipe tree stand. Refer to video tutorials as needed. Get the whole family involved in preparing your home for the merriest time of year.
Frequently Asked Questions About Outdoor Christmas Tree Frames
Can I use a real Christmas tree in the frame?
Yes, a real live Christmas tree can be set into the frame and decorated as usual. Make sure to secure it with rope and keep the stand watered. The frame allows you to display a real tree outside without having to plant it into the ground.
What size tree will the frame hold?
The size of tree the frame will hold depends on the length of the vertical pipes you use. Typically 10-12 foot pipes will accommodate a standard 7-8 foot Christmas tree. Adjust pipe length as needed to fit taller or shorter trees.
How do I anchor the frame into the ground?
Attaching the frame to a heavy wooden base, staking it into the ground, or weighing the base with sandbags are all good options. This prevents tipping from wind or bumps.
Should PVC pipe frames be sealed or painted?
Painting the frame prevents sun damage and makes the frame more decorative. Spray paint works best for full coverage. Seal any unpainted joints with caulk.
Can I hang lights and decorations from the frame?
Absolutely! Use plastic zip ties or hooks to hang lights, garlands, ornaments or other decor from the horizontal and vertical pipes. This adds to the festive look.
How do I store the frame after the holidays?
Disassemble the pipes and use caps to cover the ends. Store horizontally in a dry area protected from the elements. Proper storage preserves the frame for many years of use.
Conclusion
Creating your own outdoor Christmas tree frame is an easy and fulfilling project that will bring joy for many seasons to come. Customize the size and design to perfectly fit your space and holiday decor theme. Follow the instructions carefully for proper construction using PVC pipe, joints, eye bolts and wood. Paint and decorate the frame, then set up your evergreen tree of choice within it. Your illuminated outdoor tree will become a cheerful, welcoming feature of your home during the most wonderful time of year.