Creating A Faux Tree For Bedroom Décor

Creating a fake tree for your bedroom is a fun and inexpensive DIY project. While it may seem daunting, it is a simple process that can be completed in a few easy steps. The key to making a fake tree is to use a real tree branch as the base and add faux leaves to create a natural and full appearance. This allows you to customise the tree to fit your space perfectly, whether you want it tall or short, full or minimal. The cost of making a fake tree is also significantly lower than buying one, with the ability to create a custom tree for around $35. So, if you're looking for a unique and affordable way to bring some greenery into your bedroom, making your own fake tree is a great option!

Find a straight, sturdy branch

Finding the right branch is the hardest part of making a fake tree. You want to look for a branch that is as straight as possible. It should have lots of small branches or foliage at the end where you will be able to add your faux leaves. The branch should not be too big and heavy to manoeuvre and carry around. Take into consideration the space you’ll be putting your DIY faux tree. How tall are the ceilings? Use a tape measure to be sure it will fit and look good.

You can find the right branch in your yard, the park or your neighbour's yard. You can cut down small trees in your yard until you find the right fit. You can also find a branch in your neighbourhood park after a windstorm. Once you've found the right branch, prune it and remove all the existing foliage.

Secure the branch in a bucket of cement

To secure the branch in a bucket of cement, you will need a bucket, cement, and water. You may also need scrap wood, clamps, or other materials to create a temporary support structure for the branch while the cement dries.

First, mix the cement with water in a wheelbarrow or bucket until it reaches the desired consistency. Quick-set cement is recommended for a faster drying time. Next, pour the wet cement mixture into your bucket.

Before the cement dries, insert your branch into the bucket, ensuring it is positioned straight and exactly how you want it to stand when dried. It is important to get the placement right, as the branch will be unmovable once the cement has set.

Create a support structure to keep the branch upright and stable while the cement dries. You can use clamps to secure the branch in the bucket or lean it against a sturdy object and tie it to something solid, like a ladder, to prevent it from falling over. Alternatively, you can drill pieces of scrap wood together to create a temporary support.

Allow at least 24 hours for the cement to dry thoroughly before moving on to the next steps of your project. Keep in mind that drying times may vary depending on the humidity and temperature of your environment.

Cut the form to fit your space

Now that you have your tree branch, it's time to cut the form to fit your space. For this step, you will need a concrete form, which comes in 8-inch, 10-inch, and 12-inch sizes. Choose the size that best fits your desired thickness for the tree trunk.

Dry fit the concrete form in your chosen spot and make any necessary adjustments to ensure it fits well. If you need to cut the form to size, a jigsaw is a suitable tool for the job. A battery-operated jigsaw will make the task easier.

If you want a thicker tree trunk, you can connect two forms together using weatherproof repair tape. This step is especially useful if you want to achieve a realistic height for your tree.

Once you have the desired height and thickness for your tree trunk, it's time to work on the branches. You can add branches from outdoors and drill them directly into the studs of your ceiling.

Now that the tree base is in place, you can move on to the next step of adding texture and paint to create a realistic tree trunk appearance.

Attach leaves using floral tape

To attach the leaves to your DIY fake tree, you'll need to cut a piece of floral tape that's about 25 to 30 inches long. Stretch the tape to activate its stickiness, being careful not to stretch it too tight, or it will rip. Start wrapping the tape around the base of the leaf, securing it to the branch. If the leaf still seems insecure, wrap another piece of tape around it. The tape will only stick to itself, so make sure to wrap the tape over itself to secure it. If you're having trouble with the tape not sticking, you can use clear glue to secure the ends. However, be aware that some types of glue may make a mess, so test it out first.

Once you're done attaching the leaves, you can cover the floral tape by painting it to match the colour of the branch. This will help it blend in and look more realistic. You can mix different shades of paint, such as black, grey, brown, and white, to create the perfect shade to match your branch.

If you're using larger leaves, you might need to add some extra support to the branch. You can do this by securing a toothpick along with the leaf and branch using floral tape. This will provide the necessary support to hold the larger leaves.

Remember, when attaching the leaves, start from the bottom and work your way up and out, creating a natural, organic tree shape. You can always go back and adjust the placement of the leaves until you're happy with the final look.

Paint over the tape to match the branch

Painting over the tape to match the branch is a crucial step in making your DIY faux tree look realistic. Here's a detailed guide to help you achieve that:

Choose the Right Paint

Before you begin painting, it's essential to select the appropriate paint colour that closely resembles the colour of your branch. In this case, since you're aiming to paint over the floral tape used to attach the leaves, opt for a paint colour that matches the branch's natural bark colour. This will help you seamlessly blend the tape into the branch, making it virtually invisible.

Prepare the Paint

Once you've selected the matching paint colour, it's time to prepare your paint mixture. In a container or on a paint tray, mix the paint with a small amount of water. The goal is to achieve a thin consistency similar to that of pancake batter. Be cautious not to add too much water, as you don't want the mixture to become runny. A thin consistency will ensure a light coating over the floral tape.

Paint Application

Using a paintbrush, carefully apply the thinned paint directly onto the floral tape. Work in thin layers, adding just enough paint to cover the tape. Allow each layer to dry before applying subsequent coats. Depending on the paint you're using, refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific drying times.

Blending and Detailing

After the paint has dried, examine the painted areas to ensure they seamlessly blend in with the branch's natural colour and texture. If necessary, apply additional thin layers of paint to achieve a flawless finish. You can also use a small paintbrush or a fine-tipped brush to add intricate details, mimicking the bark's natural patterns and textures.

Final Touches

Once you're satisfied with the paint job, let it dry completely. To enhance the realism of your faux tree, consider adding other elements such as textured bark or even faux moss to the branch. These final touches will help elevate the overall appearance of your DIY project.

Remember, taking your time and paying attention to detail will result in a stunning faux tree that you can proudly display in your bedroom. Enjoy the creative process and admire your handiwork!

Frequently asked questions