Birchwood Centerpiece (from Centerpieces Through the Year)

Inspired by wintry sleigh rides through snowy forests, this birchwood centerpiece is the perfect accompaniment to a midnight buffet table. The flickering votives add a warm sparkle to set the holiday scene.

Materials List:

MDF board 6”x 34”long
6 birch branches (20”-22”tall)
6 drywall screws (2” long)
Sandpaper
Primer/sealer
Pencil
White spray paint
Disposable paint brush
Drill
Screwdriver
Felt furniture pads
Mood moss
Clear glitter
6 Clear votive holders
6 Tealights

Cut MDF board to desired length. Sand any rough edges. Prime board with sealer. Allow to dry. Arrange birch branches in desired locations. Trace around base of branch with pencil. Mark the center and pre-drill the hole for the screw. Make sure this hole is slightly smaller than the screw. Repeat this with all the branch locations. Then pre-drill the hole in the center of each birch branch. This will prevent the branches from splitting when screwed onto the base.

2. Countersinking Screws

Turn board over and using a drill bit slightly larger than the screw head, drill a countersink hole. This is to recess the screw heads so they don’t scratch the table.

3. Paint

Apply two coats of white paint. Allow each coat to dry thoroughly.

4. Securing the Birch Branches

Insert the screws into the pre-drilled holes and secure the birch branches by tightening the screws. Apply furniture felt pads on the base to protect the tabletop.

5. Arranging the Moss

A clear piece of plastic can be placed under the tablecloth to protect the table from moisture. Place the votive holders around the base of the birch branches. Keep them from touching the branches. Now arrange clumps of moss around the votive holders and branches. Be sure to cover all the exposed wooden base.

6. Final Touch

The final touch of a liberal sprinkle of clear glitter across the entire centerpiece will add a frosty sparkle. Place the tealights in the votives and light.

Want detailed, step by step directions for a lot more of Kurt's projects?  Kurt's book, Centerpieces Through the Year has detailed directions for 18 different centerpieces.  Click here for more information.