Transform a log from a birch tree into a stunning DIY centerpiece with this simple birch vase tutorial!
Birch bark vases can be wonderful for any time of year, but they are especially pretty for fall and winter, when you’d naturally enjoy the white birch bark outdoors.
Learn how to make a birch vase of your own!
This past spring, I kept waiting and waiting for my favorite birch tree to bud, but it didn’t make it through the winter.
I have always loved the silvery white bark of a birch tree – it reminds me of the logs my Grandma had stacked next to her fireplace when I was growing up.
Birch bark also reminds me of the holidays. I love incorporating the logs as part of my Christmas decor, whether they are stacked in the fireplace, added to a planter with evergreens or even as part of a Christmas table setting.
Since the birch tree in our yard was going to have to be removed, I decided to use some of it for a few creative projects. One of them was this simple birch vase.
DIY Birch Vase
I love the simplicity of this vase – yet it adds a striking touch. It’s the perfect neutral tone to work with any style of decor. I’m particularly partial to the pop of red from the berries, though, which really serve as a pretty wintery arrangement.
A homemade vase like this would also make such a beautiful gift. Even more so if it the wood came from somewhere significant, like a from a family member’s tree.
While I’m sad that my favorite tree is no longer, I’m happy to see it repurposed into something beautiful for my home that will continue to bring happy memories for many more years.
It fits seamlessly into this birch Christmas table setting which is casual and simple – how we often entertain!
Materials
- a birch log (or any other type of wood)
- tri-flute drill bit
- saw
- sand paper
How to Make a Birch Vase
- Cut to Size – Saw a piece of branch down to the height needed. 10 to 14 inches is appropriate for a vase.
- Drill a Hole – Using the drill bit, drill a wide hole until about 2″ from the base of the branch.
- Sand – Sand the top to give it a smooth, beautiful finish.
Optional: Insert a glass vase or waterproof the interior if you plan to add fresh flowers.
Tips
- Birch vases are not waterproof unless they are lined – or drill your hole large enough to slip a glass vase inside.
- This technique will work equally well for a birch planter. Simply choose a larger birch branch and drill a larger hole to fit a plant inside.
- Get tips and ideas for what type of flowers to use inside this vase here.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, not unless they are lined or waterproofed in some way.
Check out the birch logs for sale on Amazon and other online resources, or check your local garden centers and nurseries.
Use this Birch Vase on a Winter Table
In lieu of a traditional table cloth, I used a piece of osnaburg. It imitates linen, without the expense. I never iron it and if there’s a hard to remove stain, I toss it without a second thought!
Rinsed pinecones from the yard make great place card holders for each place setting. I like to add pillows to each of the end arm chairs to add another layer and comfort.
This pretty birch vase and winter table was featured on Better Homes and Gardens! Click here to see more Christmas table setting ideas!
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More Christmas Inspiration
DIY Birch Vase
Ingredients
- 1 birch log
- sandpaper
Instructions
- Cut the birch log to the desired height for the vase.
- Using the tri-flute drill bit, drill a hole in the center of the log until it’s approximately 2 inches above the base.
- Sand the drilled edges for a smooth finish.
- If using real flowers, place a glass container inside the vase or line it with plastic, first.
So pretty! Just wondering how large the drill bit is? It looks like a pretty large hole.
I can’t recall, but it is! I took my vase to Lowe’s to find a good fit. Enjoy!
Thanks for getting back to me.
Noat sure I will have the patience to wait that long!!!
Then go for it now! Enjoy!
Hi Julie, beautiful project!!!
Question for you: My tree will be cut down in a few weeks – How long do I have to wait for the Birch wood to dry to start cutting it to make creative projects?
Thanks for your help!
I’m not sure to be honest, I know it takes a year to really dry wood, but we didn’t wait long at all, maybe a matter of a couple weeks. Enjoy!
What was the diameter of the log you used?
4’ish inches, but you can use any diameter
Hi Julie,
What branches did you use in this vase?Real or not? I LOVE the look and am trying to find something similar. I already have the white birch but was wondering what height you cut it down to?
They’re some type of berry that Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods have Year after year. I’m sorry, I don’t know the name.