I spotted a Christmas tree displayed inside a basket on Southern Living last year and immediately liked the look as an alternative to the usual tree stand and skirt. The idea felt cozy and stylish, though I did wonder about how stable the arrangement would be for a taller tree.
While reading Country Living this week I found a simple, clever solution: use a basket with its bottom removed so the traditional stand sits inside the basket while still being visible and decorative. If you prefer to make one yourself, a large basket with a cut-out bottom works well; alternatively, ready-made versions are available for purchase from specialty retailers.
A small tree in a vintage pail makes a sweet, informal display. This take from Better Homes & Gardens shows how a simple container can give a tabletop or entryway tree personality and charm without much fuss.
Another attractive option is placing a tree in a large metal tub. Country Living featured this look, which adds a rustic, utilitarian edge while keeping the focus on the tree itself. A sturdy tub conceals the base and reads as part of the décor, especially in more casual or farmhouse-inspired interiors.
In that same home, several trees appear in different containers: a smaller tree in a white ceramic pot and another in a large bowl. Grouping varied trees in assorted vessels creates a relaxed, collected feel. Mixing sizes and containers makes the display feel informal and welcoming, perfect for a cozy holiday atmosphere.
This small tree sits on a coffee table inside a white flower bucket, an idea from Better Homes & Gardens. It’s an easy way to bring holiday cheer to a sitting area without a full-size tree, and the bucket keeps the look tidy and intentional.
Coastal Living showcased a bedroom with a small tree in a white handled bucket. Small bedroom trees are a favorite for adding a quiet touch of holiday spirit, and choosing a container that matches your room’s theme—like a beach-inspired bucket for a coastal space—helps the tree feel integrated rather than tacked on.
Reader comments and craft blogs often share unique tree-stand ideas as well. One DIY stand submitted by a reader was especially inventive and gathered a lot of positive attention for its creativity and charm.
{post updated from 2009}
What creative ideas do you have for trees?