Turning an old pallet into a lit Christmas village is easier than you might think.
By cutting house and tree shapes, painting them, and fitting them with LED lights, you’ll create a glowing display that looks professional yet homemade.
The greenery between the planks gives a natural woodland feel, while the warm light shining through the cutouts makes it look alive.
Perfect for porches or garden corners, this project brings a cozy holiday glow and a big dose of charm to your outdoor space.
Materials Needed
- 1 pallet board (36”-40” tall)
- Jigsaw or scroll saw (for window and shape cutouts)
- Sandpaper (80 & 120 grit)
- White or light gray paint
- Paintbrushes and foam brushes
- Battery-operated LED string lights (warm white, 50-100 bulbs)
- Hot glue gun or small nails
- Fresh or faux greenery sprigs
- Optional: mini wreath or bows
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Choose a pallet with wide, even slats. Then sand the surface to smooth out rough areas and prepare it for paint.
Step 2: Sketch house and tree shapes directly onto the boards. You can mark out simple window cutouts for the houses.
Step 3: Use a jigsaw to carefully cut along your outlines, removing window openings to allow light to shine through. Sand the edges for a neat finish.
Step 4: Apply white or gray paint with a dry-brush technique, leaving some wood grain visible for a rustic winter feel. Let it dry completely.
Step 5: Attach the LED string lights behind the pallet, positioning bulbs to shine through each cutout window and tree outline. Then secure them with hot glue or clips.
Step 6: Add greenery around the edges and base of the pallet for texture. You can also tuck in a small wreath or ribbon bow to dress it up.
Step 7: Place your pallet village on the porch or against a wall, switch on the lights, and enjoy the magical nighttime glow.
Notes:
If placing outdoors, use waterproof LED lights and apply a clear outdoor sealant to the pallet to protect it from moisture.