DIY Birch Vase
10 minutes
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Transform a log from a birch tree into a stunning DIY centerpiece with this simple birch wood vase tutorial!
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.
I love the simplicity of this vase on, yet it adds a striking touch. It’s the perfect neutral tone to work with any style of decor. I’m particially 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.
Table of Contents
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.
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!
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.
As seen on Better Homes and Gardens! Click here to see more Christmas table setting ideas!
More Christmas Ideas You’ll Enjoy
- Scandinavian Christmas
- Christmas Gift Tags
- Thoughtful Hostess Gifts
- Berry and Pinecone Centerpiece
- 30 Easy Christmas Decoration Ideas
Did you make this? Rate the recipe and tag me on social @julieblanner!
DIY Birch Vase
A simple but striking vase made from a birch log
vase
Supplies
- 1 birch log
- sandpaper
Equipment
- saw
- tri-flute drill bit
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.
Hendrika C Ono says
how do you waterproof the interior of the vase?
Julie Blanner says
I didn’t. You can make it so you can insert a glass vase if you prefer.
Karen says
I am trying to make these but the drill bit in my drill press just stalls when it touches the wood. What speed did you use? Â Â
Leslie says
I have some birch log pieces and was wanting to make candle holders, but am having trouble keeping the log still while drilling the hole without damaging the fragile paper bark. Any suggestions?