DIY Holiday Christmas Village
This DIY Holiday Christmas village is a great at-home craft project using a few supplies that you may have on hand. I used 2x4’s so they can last for many holidays, although cardboard can work as well! I named mine Larry’s Lodge, complete with a greenhouse and doghouse. However you decide to decorate or create your village, make sure you have fun with it!
Supplies
If using wood:
Dimensional wood (one of each): 2x4 and 2x6. This can be purchased at your local hardware store.
Wood stain + brush/paper towel (I purchased: gunstock, ipswich pine, red mahogany, polyurethane satin)
Note: you’ll need a miter saw to size them down. The thickness allows them to stand up on its own.
If using cardboard:
Large pieces of cardboard
Scissors
Note: these will need to lean against a wall or a base to stand up.
Paint marker pens
I used black and white paint markers and found chalk paint marker worked well.
Paint + paintbrush (optional)
Colors: Black, white, cream, green (for the greenhouse)
Ruler (optional)
Practice paper or scrap wood/cardboard (optional)
Prepping the Houses
If using wood:
Cut each piece down to multiple heights using a miter saw, I varied them at 6”, 8”, and 12”
Angle the saw at 45° to cut peaks
Stain the wood switching up different colors with different heights, coating multiple times until you get the desired color. Let dry.
If using cardboard:
Draw and cut out multiple size houses, with peaks, varying the height at 6”, 8”, and 12”, widths 4” and 6”. See stencil above to visualize variating shapes and sizes.
Draw
Using practice paper or scrap wood/cardboard, draw and plan what type of house style you’re looking for. Style examples to search for inspiration: abstract, bold, line art, 3D, art deco. I ended up with a block illustration style.
Once you figure out your style, draw out the details on your wooden houses using paint markers. Draw out the windows, door(s), holiday decor, such as wreaths, candy canes; fill it in with color, make it black and white; draw and decorate to your liking.
Arrange the houses with the rest of your holiday decor. Add lights, stars, greenery - anything and everything - to make it your own little Holiday Village!
Larry’s Lodge