Create Rustic Driftwood Reindeer for Your Holiday Decorations

Creating Driftwood Deer for Your Holiday Decor

Driftwood is a fantastic natural material to use for rustic and beach-themed holiday decor. Using pieces of weathered, gray driftwood, you can easily create unique decorative driftwood reindeer perfect for the Christmas season.

What is Driftwood?

Driftwood refers to pieces of wood that have been washed onto beaches or shorelines by ocean waves and currents. Over time in the ocean, the wood becomes weathered and faded, often with a gray, distressed finish. Driftwood can come in many shapes and sizes depending on the type of tree it came from.

When gathering driftwood, look for pieces that have an interesting shape and texture. Curved branches and gnarled pieces of driftwood are great for creating the body shape of the reindeer. You'll also want some pieces with points or antler-like shapes for the antlers.

Creating the Reindeer Body Shape

To make the main body of the reindeer, look for a long piece of driftwood that has some natural curves or that you can bend into a slight S-shape. This will create the back and neck of the reindeer shape. Position it standing upright, with the neck end slightly higher.

Next, arrange two smaller pieces of driftwood on either side of the body for the legs. Look for some natural points or angles in the wood to create the bent leg shape. You can wire or glue the leg pieces to the body if needed for support.

For the reindeer's head, attach a piece of driftwood horizontally to the front of the body. Look for a piece with some character for the head - a knot or curved shape can become the nose.

Creating Antlers

Antlers are an iconic part of a reindeer's look. For the driftwood deer's antlers, forage for driftwood sticks and pieces with points and branches coming off at different angles. These natural shapes mimic the look of real antlers.

You'll need two antler pieces for each side. Attach them to the head portion of the body at staggered heights using hot glue, wire, or strong decorating wire. Bend and shape the antler pieces as desired to achieve that authentic look.

Adding Accent Decorations

There are many creative ways to embellish your driftwood reindeer creation:

• Tie jute twine around the neck for a rustic scarf.
• Use burlap ribbon to make a saddle or bow.
• Attach pine cones or dried pods with hot glue for texture.
• Wire on faux leaves or flowers for a pop of color.
• Add a large bell for some holiday sound when the reindeer moves.
• Use white paint to add details like eyes or fur texture.

Displaying Your Driftwood Deer

One of the great things about driftwood creations is that they make stunning additions to beach-cottage style decor. Display your finished deer on a mantel or table with other coastal Christmas decorations.

You can also display the reindeer outside by the front door or on the patio. Keep in mind that driftwood is susceptible to moisture damage, so seal it well before placing outside.

For a classic look, arrange two deer together pulling a driftwood sled display. Add wrapped gifts, greenery and soft white string lights for a magical winter scene.

Finding the Right Driftwood

Searching for those perfect pieces of driftwood is a fun part of the creative process. Here are some tips for finding great driftwood for your project:

• Look for driftwood on beaches known for collecting a lot of washed up wood.
• Search after big storms or high winds and tides deposit more debris.
• Look along the high tide line for the best selection.
• Target wood that is weathered and gray, not freshly washed up wood.
• Pick pieces that feel sturdy, not soggy or rotting.

Many craft stores also sell assortments of driftwood shapes for DIY projects. This can save time if you don't live near a beach.

Designing Your Unique Driftwood Reindeer

The wonderful thing about crafting driftwood deer is that each one can be completely unique. Let the natural shapes of the wood inspire your design.

Look for unusual antler shapes, knots and burls to become facial features, interesting grains and textures to enhance the rustic vibe.

You can create pairs of matching deer or make each one totally different. Painted details can also help reflect your personal holiday style.

However you choose to create your driftwood deer, they will be stunning additions to your holiday decor. Display them with pride as handmade, eco-friendly creations.

FAQs

What kind of paint should I use on driftwood?

Acrylic paint is best for painting details on driftwood. Be sure to seal the driftwood with an outdoor sealant first so the paint adheres properly.

How do I attach the pieces of driftwood together?

You can use hot glue, strong craft wire, or decorating wire to attach and shape the driftwood pieces. Wire allows you to bend and pose the pieces.

Should I seal my driftwood creation for outdoor use?

Yes, it's important to seal any driftwood pieces displayed outdoors. Use a clear acrylic sealer or polyurethane to protect the driftwood from moisture damage.

Where is the best place to display driftwood deer?

Driftwood deer look great on mantels, tabletops, front porches, patios, and anywhere you want to add a coastal rustic vibe for Christmas.

What if I can't find good driftwood near me?

Many craft stores sell bags of assorted driftwood shapes that can be used to create deer. Etsy also has a lot of driftwood and deer art pieces for sale.