DIY Christmas Greens with Pre-lit Faux Branches

December 3, 2014

silver and brown faux branches with lights

I finally broke down and bought some of those pre-lit faux branches that have been gaining in popularity for the past few years now. You know the ones. They're long branches that have little battery-operated lights already attached to them. Some branches are white or silver, and some are natural-looking. Some have glitter or even "snow" on them.

silver and brown faux branches with lights

I got a silver set at World Market (originally $16.99) and a natural looking set at Wal-Mart, each for around $10.00. Their prices can vary GREATLY depending on where you look, so be sure to shop around for the best price.  

Each year I've tried weaving white Christmas lights through an evergreen garland on our mantel. But you could always see the wires (even when they were green) and the cord would hang down the side of the mantel like an eyesore. I was never totally happy with the look. But I really love the look of soft white Christmas lights. And these pre-lit faux branches totally fit the bill.

I knew when I purchased them exactly what I was going to do with them. I have a tall, galvanized French flower bucket that's just the right size for holding some tall faux branches and Christmas greens.

galvanized French flower bucket Christmas greens pre-lit faux branches

So I started with my galvanized bucket.

stencilled galvanized French flower bucket

Here are the greens that I cut from trees on our property.

fresh cut evergreen branches

I added them in first, then I added the pre-lit faux branches.

galvanized French flower bucket Christmas greens pre-lit faux branches

Finally, I added in some Christmas sprays for a pop of red and white color.

red and white faux berry sprays

Sprays like this are usually ridiculously overpriced at your major craft stores. I bought mine during a 60% off sale.

galvanized French flower bucket Christmas greens pre-lit faux branches

Each grouping of faux branches has it's own battery pack. Rather than having to dig into the bucket every time I want to turn them on or off, I taped the packs to the back of the bucket with painter's tape so they're easy to reach.


Not very attractive, but that's ok since no one will ever see them.

galvanized French flower bucket Christmas greens pre-lit faux branches

If you've ever arranged flowers in a vase you can do this. I love arranging flowers so this was great fun for me! 

galvanized French flower bucket Christmas greens pre-lit faux branches

And here it is when lit. It's even prettier at night, but getting a photo that did it justice was nearly impossible.

galvanized French flower bucket Christmas greens pre-lit faux branches

Overall, the project was relatively inexpensive since I already had the  bucket, and the greens were free. You can always add more or less greens according to your taste, and if they start to look a bit tired, you can always add some new greens for a fresh look.  
How do you use greens for
YOUR Christmas decorating?

Well, that's it until next time, friends! 
I hope you enjoyed reading 
DIY Christmas Greens with Pre-lit Faux Branches.

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silver and brown faux branches with lights



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Leave a Comment!

Christine @ Rustic-Refined said...

Very pretty, loved your idea about taping the power box so it can be turned on easily. I am going to have to remember that. Love the branches you bought....

Barb Rosen said...

I made a pin but did not see a Pinterest button on any of your pretty pictures! Love this idea!

Anonymous said...

Your tin bucket is lovely with the greenery and lights! Your home is looking festive and ready for the Christmas! I love lighted branches and use them in a tin bucket too. I also bought one of Walmart's lighted bare trees covered with snow. It has become a favorite of mine now. Great job!

Funky Junk Interiors said...

This is so pretty! I've wondered about those prelit twigs, and you've encouraged me to go for it. I have the perfect dark corner I need them for! I LOVE your planter, the number on the container is super cool!

Vanessa said...

I love this idea, Kathleen.

Privet and Holly said...

I love how beautiful
this looks, Kathleen!
I have a set of the lighted
branches, but haven't
aded them to spruce
tips, which really looks
great. I like the way you
brought in real and faux,
together and the zinc
containers are always
really sweet....

Sending hugs for a
happy and festive Christmas
season, sweet friend!

xo Suzanne

Vintage Paint and more... said...

I love mixing real with faux to get that added texture and pop. I had not seen these faux limbs but will definitely be on the lookout for them. Beautiful arrangement in a beautiful container. Love it. Cathy

Sandra Lee said...

Flower arranging is not one of my skills but I'm willing to give it a go. This is very pretty and I love the way you hid the lights.

Betsy@My Salvaged Treasures said...

I've never seen these before, now I must have some. Love how you have them arranged in your stenciled bucket! Very pretty.

Karen Marie said...

Kathleen,
I love your post for the Bloggers Christmas Series. I have all of those items in my home right now. While we are allergic to fresh Greens I do my best to dress the fake ones for the Holidays.
Thank you for ispiring me.
Happy Creating,
Karen Marie
Dragonfly & Lily Pads

Unknown said...

Beautiful arrangement.. I don't bring a lot of greens inside although this year I did go out and snip some greens from the neighbor's bush.

must love junk said...

Love this! The bucket, the greens, the lights...all looks great!
Susan

Rita C at Panoply said...

Kathleen, I use these also, both battery and electric (like the battery better). I like how you've taped the packs onto your vessel - good idea!

The Charm of Home said...

Very pretty! Thank you for joining Home Sweet Home!
Sherry

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