Turning scrap pallet wood into faux Christmas presents is a fun way to decorate without spending much.
The wood slats are cut into rectangles, dry-brushed with paint for a weathered finish, then wrapped with buffalo plaid ribbon to mimic gift wrap.
You can make several boxes in varied sizes and group them together for maximum impact.
These rustic gift boxes are perfect for both indoor and covered outdoor spaces, and they hold up year after year.
Materials Needed
- Pallet wood planks (cut into rectangles: 12″x12″, 12″x18″, 14″x24″)
- Sandpaper (80 & 120 grit)
- White paint (matte or chalk paint)
- Black paint
- Paintbrushes (wide & small detail brush)
- Buffalo plaid ribbon (2-3″ wide, wired)
- Pinecones and faux greenery sprigs
- Hot glue gun and sticks
- Optional: red berries or jingle bells
Step-by-step Guide
Step 1: Cut pallet wood into different-sized rectangular panels. Then sand them smooth, removing rough edges.
Step 2: Apply a coat of white paint to each piece. Once dry, lightly brush black paint across the surface using a dry-brush technique to create a rustic, weathered look.
Step 3: Wrap each board with buffalo plaid ribbon as if you’re wrapping a present. Then secure the ribbon on the back with hot glue or staples.
Step 4: Make large bows from the same ribbon and attach them at the center intersection.
Step 5: Decorate with pinecones, greenery sprigs, and berries, securing them under the bow with hot glue.
Step 6: Arrange the boxes in sets of three for a balanced, layered holiday display.
Tips:
For a farmhouse twist, swap the plaid ribbon for burlap. If displaying outdoors, seal the wood with a clear protective spray.