As Christmas approaches and South Africa enjoys the summer sunshine, it’s the ideal time to dive into some fun DIY projects. Whether you’re sprucing up your garden, crafting gifts for loved ones, or decking out your home with festive decorations, Lasher Tools can help you bring your ideas to life and add a special touch to your celebrations.

1. Festive planter arrangements

Start with large outdoor planters or baskets, filling them with a combination of evergreen branches, pine cones, red berries, and string lights for a warm, festive look. Add layers of holly leaves, rosemary sprigs, and classic ornaments in reds, golds, and silvers. Complete the arrangement with a few decorative bows to bring holiday warmth and a welcoming glow to your garden, porch, or front door.

2. Personalised wooden planters

Construct wooden planters for gardening enthusiasts, using weather-resistant wood. Personalise each planter by engraving or painting the recipient’s name or adding designs such as holly or snowflakes. These custom planters are not only practical but also add a personal touch, making them ideal for Christmas gifts that continue giving throughout the year.

3. Outdoor Christmas tree in a planter

Choose a small evergreen or rosemary bush to plant in a decorative pot or garden planter. Drape it with strings of warm white lights and hang mini ornaments like bells, stars, or snowflakes.

To finish, add a festive bow or garland around the base of the planter, creating an inviting holiday display perfect for patios, balconies, or front entrances.

Looking for some tips to keep your Summer garden green? Read up on our top 9 Water Wise Gardening Tips For Our Unique Climate in South Africa.

4. Christmas-themed birdhouses

Turn ordinary birdhouses into holiday decorations by painting them in classic festive colours such as red, green, and white. Add mini wreaths around the openings, or paint on candy cane stripes for a playful touch. Attach LED fairy lights or a touch of glitter to reflect light, creating a cheery display that attracts birds and adds charm to your garden, fence, or trees.

5. Handmade bird feeder

Build a charming wooden bird feeder for nature lovers, adding a rustic or painted finish to match outdoor decor. Personalise it with festive touches like tiny painted pine cones or holly. This functional decor piece encourages birdwatching and adds natural beauty to any garden or backyard.

6. Customised garden tool storage

Create a sturdy, practical organiser for garden tools, with racks or hooks for hanging tools neatly. Paint it in festive colours or natural wood tones to match the recipient’s garden style, and add personalised stencils, such as a holiday greeting or the recipient’s name. Attach a mini wreath or seasonal decoration for a functional yet decorative piece that gardeners will appreciate all year.

7. Decorative picture frames

Repurpose reclaimed wood to craft unique picture frames, either sanded smooth or left slightly rustic for a vintage feel. Add festive colours, decorative trims, or small holiday accents like bows and bells. These frames make lovely holiday gifts, especially when filled with a meaningful family photo, turning memories into a charming display piece.

8. Wooden coasters

Cut slices from thick wood into various festive shapes like stars, snowflakes, or circles. Sand down the edges and apply a clear sealant for durability. Consider engraving initials, dates, or short holiday messages on each piece, then package them with a ribbon or gift box. These personalised coasters make thoughtful, handmade gifts perfect for holiday tables.

9. Homemade Christmas table from reclaimed wood

Christmas table out of planks: Build a rustic, holiday-themed table from reclaimed wooden planks or pallets. Begin by choosing sturdy wood and assembling it into a simple tabletop with legs or supports. Sand the surface for a smooth finish, then apply a weatherproof sealant to make it durable for indoor or outdoor use. For a festive touch, add a table runner decorated with holly, pine cones, and candles or lanterns as a centrepiece.

10. Wooden serving tray

Craft a versatile wooden tray, finishing it with paint or stain to match the recipient’s decor style. Engrave or stencil holiday-themed designs, initials, or quotes for a personal touch. This tray can be used as a decorative piece or for serving drinks and snacks at holiday gatherings, making it a practical and thoughtful gift.

11. Wooden Christmas ornaments

Use wood slices or small cut-outs to make simple yet festive ornaments. Paint or stencil on seasonal designs like snowflakes, trees, or reindeer, and add a loop of jute twine for hanging. These ornaments work beautifully on Christmas trees, as gift toppers, or arranged in a bowl for a rustic, decorative touch around the house.

12. Wooden Christmas village

Craft a miniature village by cutting out house shapes, trees, and other figures from wood. Paint them in muted tones or festive colours like red, green, and white. Arrange them on a mantel or windowsill and dust with faux snow for a charming Scandinavian-inspired decor piece that brings the season’s warmth indoors.

13. Let it snow wooden shelf

Create a unique snowflake-themed shelf by cutting a simple snowflake shape from wood or using pre-cut pieces. Hang it with rustic twine, then decorate with small, lightweight holiday items like pine cones, mini presents, or stars. This decorative shelf adds a whimsical and festive touch to any wall, patio, or entryway, showcasing seasonal accents.

14. Wooden Christmas card wreath

Construct a wreath from small wooden frames or wood scraps arranged in a circular pattern. Attach mini pegs to hold holiday cards or family photos, and embellish with seasonal decor like berries, ribbons, or bows. This creative display lets you showcase greetings from friends and family while adding a personal touch to your holiday decor.

15. Patchwork wood Christmas tree

Use scrap wood pieces cut into triangles or squares to create a patchwork-style Christmas tree. Stain or paint each piece in different festive colours or tones, and arrange them in a tree shape, either wall-hung or freestanding. Add small knobs or hooks for hanging tiny ornaments or lights, making this project an eco-friendly and colourful focal point for holiday décor.