This year, the kids made it very clear that our Christmas tree could not be a blog project. They asked very nicely if they could just decorate it, and not make it fancy. I agreed...not everything has to be a blog project after all. I did ask if they minded if we put the tree in a nice galvanized bucket this year instead of having a Christmas tree skirt. They agreed, so I sort of snuck a little blog project in anyway...sneaky momma ;) See, I've always detested a tree skirt...not that I hate them in other's homes, just in mine. We have pets...pets that shed. So, even though I vacuum a million times a week, the tree skirt always seemed covered in fur...bleck!
I found this galvanized bucket at a yard sale this summer for $3, and knew instantly that I wanted to put my tree in it. Not in the current state, of course, but all painted white...I could just see it. Matt on the other hand thought I was nuts (what's new?), so I told him it could also be an outdoor cooler...sneaky wife )
I had been holding on to my sample of Miss Mustard Seed milk paint that I got at the Southern Blogger's Conference from Amy at Atta Girl Says. I knew I wanted to do something special with it, but didn't know what...this was the perfect project! I mixed it up and literally slapped it on the bucket. I did 3 coats to cover the green. I didn't sand it or anything like that...I wanted it to look worn and chippy.
Once it was all dry, I placed our Christmas tree inside and draped it with a few strands of ruffled burlap. I love the way it turned out! No animal fur, and the tree looks like it was planted instead of pulled out of a box and put together.
So...do you do a fancy tree or let the kiddos decorate? One day I will have a fancy tree, but for now, I am happy to have my babies at home decorating it for me.
Kim @ Savvy Southern Style says
I love the way that looks you sneaky momma.
Courtenay@Creek Line House says
Ooooh! I've been wanting to do this too. Now if only I had a perfectly chippy bucket like you do! Great way to squeeze a little blog post in there. :)
LiveLoveDIY says
hahaha! I love it! Awesome!
Laura Beth Gunter says
I always want a pretty elegant tree, but the hubs like colored lights...what is a girl to do?? Your's is beautiful! And I love the bucket :o)
Debbiedoo's says
Love this idea, so cute Jessica. Off to pin now:)
reFresh reStyle says
Your tree looks wonderful! I bought one this morning, hopefully I'll have one up soon :)
Vanessa says
Hi, Jessica
What are you talking about, you tree is lovely. I love your tree and the bucket great idea.
Shirley@Housepitality Designs says
The tree is wonderful and so is the transformed bucket!!!....
Not Your Ordinary Agent says
What a great change!! I love the addition of the bucket, so much easier to water!! Please share this at Foodtastic Friday and Friends!