Transform your home into a festive wonderland this holiday season with a charming DIY Old-Fashioned Candy Christmas Tree craft! This timeless project is not only a joy to create but also a beautiful heirloom that can be cherished for decades. Gather your felt, burlap, and a delightful array of classic candies, then prepare to immerse yourself in a creative journey. My mother-in-law still proudly displays the one she crafted over 30 years ago, a testament to its enduring appeal and durability!
Embarking on a craft project might seem a little out of character for me – I’m usually the one navigating recipes, not assembling intricate decorations! However, this Candy Christmas Tree is an exception, thanks to the wonderful guidance of Eric’s mom and sisters. They are truly the crafting connoisseurs, effortlessly using terms like “chartreuse,” “charger plates,” and “damask” while I’m still figuring out the basics. But rest assured, even if you’re more comfortable with paper plates than elaborate decor, this project is designed for everyone. It’s a fantastic way to add a unique, handmade touch to your holiday decorations.
We created these festive trees last year, and I vividly recall the process, albeit with a few humorous learning curves. For instance, when I messaged my mother-in-law, Kris, about the type of stapler we used, she confidently replied with “heavy dory stapler.” Naturally, I immediately Googled it, assuming it was some advanced crafting tool. Turns out, it was merely a delightful typo for a “heavy-duty stapler!” This anecdote perfectly illustrates that you don’t need to be a seasoned crafter or even know obscure tool names to succeed with this project. If I can do it, you absolutely can too!
Consider this a special, perhaps rare, crafting appearance here on The Food Charlatan. While my usual focus is delicious recipes, this project was too good not to share. Don’t worry, I’ll be back to our regularly scheduled programming of delectable dishes soon!
The beauty of this Candy Christmas Tree lies in its longevity. My mother-in-law, Kris, made her tree in the 1980s, and her mom crafted her first one even earlier, in the 1960s! These decorative pieces truly last for years, becoming cherished family heirlooms. This durability often prompts the first question from admirers: “Can you eat it?” My standard response, often with a smile, is, “Only if you enjoy eating glue!” The trick to their enduring charm is proper storage, which we’ll delve into later. While the candy colors may mellow and fade over time, as you can see from photos of Kris’s original tree, this only adds to its vintage appeal, creating a wonderfully nostalgic aesthetic.
These two beautiful creations are the handiwork of my sisters-in-law, Jessie’s on the left and Britta’s on the right. In these photos, they hadn’t yet been mounted onto their final backing boards, showcasing the initial stages of their personalized candy arrangements.
I’m excited to guide you through this delightful tutorial step-by-step. For your convenience, a printable “recipe” with all the materials and condensed instructions is available further down the page. Let’s get started on creating your very own festive Candy Christmas Tree!
Candy Christmas Tree Craft Tutorial: Getting Started with Your Holiday Masterpiece
Creating your Candy Christmas Tree begins with preparing your foundational elements. This initial stage involves precise cuts and careful fabric application, setting the stage for your confectionery design. The choice of felt or burlap for your background fabric is an important decision, as it will significantly influence the overall aesthetic of your finished tree.
Begin by taking your foam core board. Using an exact-o knife, carefully cut it to a precise measurement of 14×16 inches. This will serve as the primary surface for your candy tree. Next, position this cut foam core board centrally on your 18×20 inch piece of felt or burlap. This fabric piece will be the background against which your candies are glued. When selecting your fabric, consider the visual impact: a vibrant red felt can make colorful candies pop, while natural burlap offers a rustic, vintage charm that beautifully complements old-fashioned sweets. Refer to the photos to help you decide which background best suits your desired aesthetic.
With the foam core board centered, it’s time to secure the fabric. Using a heavy-duty stapler (no “dory” staplers needed here!), wrap the edges of the fabric tightly around to the back of the board. Ensure the fabric is taut on the front for a smooth, unwrinkled surface. If you find the excess fabric too bulky to staple neatly, don’t hesitate to trim it down. The goal is a clean, securely fastened foundation for your candy art.
Creating Your Durable Frame & Backing for Lasting Beauty
While I regret not having photos for this particular stage, the steps for creating your sturdy frame and backing are straightforward and crucial for the longevity of your Candy Christmas Tree. This section ensures your craft has a robust structure and a professional finish.
First, using the same technique you just mastered, staple the 20×22 inch piece of burlap or felt to the plywood. Make sure this fabric is the opposite of what you used for the foam core board to create an attractive contrasting border. For example, if you used red felt for the candy surface, use burlap for the plywood backing, or vice versa. This plywood backing provides the necessary rigidity and durability, allowing your craft to hang securely and withstand the test of time.
Once both pieces are covered, it’s time to assemble them. Carefully place your smaller, fabric-covered foam core rectangle onto the larger, covered plywood. This step requires a bit of foresight: when securing the foam core to the plywood with your stapler, strategically place your staples only in areas where you are absolutely certain you will be gluing candy on top. This ingenious trick ensures that no unsightly staples are visible on your finished masterpiece. For my tree, we used just four staples, carefully hidden beneath the Christmas Tree Nougats – those distinct candies I intentionally left in their wrappers for easy identification and reference.
A word of caution, learn from our initial misstep: we mistakenly glued the candy first and then had to carefully pry some off to staple the foam core to the wood. Avoid this hassle! Always secure your boards together *before* you begin the candy application. This is precisely why some of the subsequent photos might show candy being glued directly onto the foam core board without the plywood backing in place – a visual reminder of our learning experience!
To add an elegant border, you might consider creating an oval shape of candy around your central tree design. To achieve this, take a large piece of paper and cut it to 13×15 inches (Costco brand parchment paper, which often comes 15 inches wide, works perfectly). Fold the paper in half horizontally, then in half vertically, creating four equal quarters. On the edge that doesn’t have a fold, use a pencil to draw a smooth curve. Carefully cut along this curve with scissors. When you unfold the paper, you’ll have a perfectly symmetrical oval. This oval should be approximately half an inch from the edge of your fabric-covered foam core board on each side, providing a balanced frame. Use a pen to trace this oval onto your background fabric; don’t worry about the marks, as they will soon be beautifully hidden by your chosen candies. Now, it’s time for the fun part: unleashing your candy creativity!
Assemble an Assortment of Old-Fashioned Candy: The Sweet Heart of Your Creation
The selection of candy is where your Candy Christmas Tree truly comes to life! While you have complete freedom to choose any confectionery you desire, I highly recommend embracing the charm of old-fashioned hard candies. Their vibrant colors, intricate shapes, and nostalgic appeal are simply perfect for this vintage-inspired project. I sourced most of the candies for my tree from a fantastic old-timey candy shop in Old Sacramento, the kind with towering barrels of hard candy and an overwhelming selection of taffy flavors. These shops are treasure troves for unique sweets.
If you don’t have access to an old-timey candy shop, don’t fret! Many of these classic sweets are readily available online. Here’s a list of some of my favorite old-fashioned candies that work wonderfully for this project, along with convenient Amazon links:
- Spearmint Leaves: These soft, sugary leaves provide a beautiful green base, perfect for mimicking pine needles or adding a fresh, vibrant touch to your tree.
- Cut Rock Primrose Candy: With their intricate patterns and jewel-like appearance, these candies add a sophisticated, vintage sparkle to your design.
- Filled Red Raspberries: These brightly colored, fruity candies offer a burst of red, ideal for decorative accents or “berries” on your tree.
- Mini Ribbon Candy: The delicate, wavy structure of ribbon candy creates elegant lines and texture, reminiscent of festive bows.
- Deluxe Filled Candy: Often featuring beautiful designs and rich colors, these candies can serve as focal points or charming fillers.
- Gumdrops: These classic chewy candies come in various colors, adding soft textures and vibrant pops of color.
- For a convenient assortment, check out this pretty good assortment box of hard candy.
- White Pearl Sugar: Perfect for creating a snow-dusted effect or adding a delicate, shimmering detail.
- Christmas Tree Nougats: These festive nougats, often wrapped, are excellent for adding structural elements or “presents” at the base.
- Mini Candy Canes: An absolute must for any Christmas tree, offering iconic red and white stripes and a classic shape.
- Star Light Mints: These round, peppermint candies are versatile for filling gaps or creating small, uniform accents.
- Rainbow Licorice Laces: Perfect for creating flowing lines, garlands, or even wrapping around other candies.
While these Amazon links are provided for convenience (and are affiliate links, meaning I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you), I highly recommend checking your local grocery stores first. Many stores, especially around the holidays, feature bulk sections with an impressive variety of old-fashioned candies. Candy canes and gumdrops, in particular, are almost always easy to find. Think about the color palette you want to achieve – traditional reds and greens, festive pastels, or perhaps a more monochromatic look with various textures. The possibilities are endless!
I haven’t provided specific candy amounts because the exact quantity will depend entirely on your vision for the tree – how dense you want the candy, the size of each piece, and your chosen design. But here’s the best part: any leftover candy is fair game for snacking! It’s like the unofficial rule of making gingerbread houses, which is really just an excuse to indulge in a vast assortment of sweets. And don’t forget to grab some pretzel sticks if you plan to use them to form your tree trunk; they offer a delightful contrast in texture and a natural, rustic look.
Constructing Your Christmas Tree Out of Candy: A Sweet Symphony of Design
This is where your artistic vision truly comes to life! Before you begin creating the main tree structure, it’s a good idea to start by gluing candies along your traced oval border. This ensures you establish your frame and have ample room for your central design. Take your time with this step, experimenting with different candy arrangements and patterns for the border.
As you work on the oval, remember to also embellish the corners of your board creatively. These small details can significantly enhance the overall charm of your display. Once your oval border is complete and looks just right, you can fully focus your attention on constructing the main Christmas tree shape within it. Feel free to sketch a light outline of a tree shape with a pencil if you need a guide, or simply freehand your design.
When applying the candy, don’t be shy with the glue! Whether you’re using Elmer’s glue for its clear drying properties or a hot glue gun for faster setting (use with caution, especially with small children), ensure each candy piece is firmly attached. Consider layering candies to create dimension and visual interest. For instance, you can use flat candies as a base and then add rounder ones on top for texture. Think about how different shapes and colors can create a balanced and appealing design. I initially considered using the small bear and the green and yellow candies at the bottom as “presents” under the tree, similar to Britta and Kris’s beautiful designs. Ultimately, I opted for a different approach, preferring more pearl sugar for a snowy effect and additional red candies to enhance the festive feel. There’s no right or wrong way – let your creativity be your guide!
Once you’ve meticulously glued all your candies into place, the most important step is patience. Allow your candy creation to dry thoroughly, ideally for at least overnight. This ensures that every piece is securely bonded, preventing any accidental detachments when you move or hang your beautiful tree.
Add Hardware for Effortless Display
With your candy tree fully dried and solidified, it’s time to prepare it for display. Attaching the appropriate hanging hardware is a straightforward step that ensures your beautiful creation can be proudly showcased.
On the back of your plywood backing, securely nail or screw in a large sawtooth picture hanger. For optimal balance and to prevent your tree from tilting, use a measuring tape to accurately center the hanger left-to-right. If you have a specific spot in mind on your wall for your Candy Christmas Tree, now is the perfect time to measure its intended placement. This foresight allows you to position the hanger at the ideal height, ensuring it aligns perfectly with your existing decor and wall space. A well-placed hanger makes all the difference in presenting your handcrafted holiday decoration.
And just like that, your magnificent DIY Old-Fashioned Candy Christmas Tree is complete and ready to adorn your home!
How to Store Your Candy Christmas Tree Craft for Generations to Come
Proper storage is paramount to ensuring your Candy Christmas Tree remains a cherished decoration for many years, even decades. This section outlines a clever and effective storage solution that will protect your candy creation from damage, pests, and environmental factors. This ingenious method was devised by Eric’s dad, Chip – a huge thank you to him for this practical innovation!
Here’s the breakdown of this effective storage method:
- Prepare the Cardboard “Clamshell”: Acquire two large pieces of sturdy cardboard that are identical in size and significantly larger than your candy tree’s plywood backing. These will form the top and bottom of your protective casing.
- Create a Protective Frame: On one of the cardboard pieces, glue strips or blocks of Styrofoam around its entire edge. The key here is that the Styrofoam must be taller than the highest point of your candy embellishments. This creates a secure perimeter, preventing the top cardboard piece from crushing the delicate candy decorations.
- Position the Tree: Carefully place your completed candy tree, face up, in the center of the cardboard piece with the Styrofoam frame.
- Seal the Package: Place the second piece of cardboard squarely on top, creating a “clamshell” effect. Securely tape all four sides of the cardboard pieces together. When it’s time to open it the following year, simply slit the tape along three sides, allowing the top to open like a book for easy retrieval.
Beyond the physical protection, the environment in which you store your tree is critical. You must store this precious craft within your house, ideally in a climate-controlled area, rather than in an uninsulated garage or attic. Candy is highly susceptible to extreme temperatures; if it gets too hot, the candy could melt, and prolonged exposure to fluctuating temperatures can also lead to stickiness, discoloration, and attraction of pests. This year, I plan to take an extra step by wrapping the entire cardboard box in plastic. We have the kind of heavy-duty plastic that movers use to protect furniture, but several layers of standard cling film (Saran wrap) would likely work just as well, providing an additional barrier against moisture and dust. If you have a sealed plastic storage bin large enough to accommodate the cardboard package, that would be an even better, more robust solution for long-term preservation.
Whew! After all that effort, I truly hope you find immense joy in admiring your beautiful Candy Christmas Tree every holiday season. I’ve been eagerly waiting all year to hang mine, and I absolutely adore the festive charm it adds to the wall. This project isn’t just about creating a decoration; it’s about crafting memories and an heirloom that brings warmth and nostalgia to your home year after year.
If you embark on this delightful project, please promise to share your creation with me! Snap a fantastic photo and post it on Instagram using the hashtag #thefoodcharlatan. I would absolutely love to see your unique interpretation and the wonderful details of your very own Candy Christmas Tree!
Not into crafts? Here are some delicious Christmas recipes to delight your taste buds!
If crafting isn’t your cup of tea, or if you’ve already filled your home with festive decor, switch gears and dive into some delightful holiday baking with these beloved recipes:
- Candy Cane Brownie Trifle: This dessert is incredibly popular and easily one of my all-time favorite Christmas treats! It’s unbelievably rich, decadent, and perfectly embodies the holiday spirit with its layers of minty goodness and rich chocolate.
- Caramel Nougat Pecan Rolls: While this recipe might require a bit more effort and time in the kitchen, I promise you, the incredible flavor and texture of these rolls make every moment spent entirely worth it. They are a true showstopper!
- Cinnamon Honey Butter: This versatile and incredibly flavorful spread is perfect for enhancing warm rolls, pancakes, or toast. It also makes for a thoughtful and delicious homemade neighbor or host gift during the holiday season.
Connect with me for more delicious recipes and holiday inspiration!
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DIY Old-Fashioned Candy Christmas Tree Craft
Learn how to craft your own enchanting Candy Christmas Tree, a timeless and durable holiday decoration perfect for decking your halls! Gather your materials—felt, burlap, and an abundance of old-fashioned candies—and prepare to create a cherished family heirloom that lasts for decades.
Equipment:
- Exact-o knife
- Heavy-duty stapler (or staple gun suitable for wood)
- Pencil/pen
- Scissors
- Elmer’s glue or a hot glue gun (with plenty of glue sticks)
- Measuring tape
- Hammer or screwdriver (for picture hanger)
Materials:
- 1 foam core board* (cut to 14×16 inches)
- 18×20 inch piece of red felt OR burlap (for the candy background)
- 20×22 inch piece of burlap OR red felt (opposite of what you used for the foam core, for the backing frame)
- 1/4 inch thick plywood or chipboard (cut to 16×18 inches)
- 13×15 inch piece of paper (e.g., parchment paper, tracing paper, for oval template)
- Assorted old-fashioned candy (see suggestions above for a nostalgic look)
- Pretzel sticks (optional, for the tree trunk, or use candy)
- 1 large sawtooth picture hanger (includes screws/nails for securing to wood)
- Two large pieces of cardboard (same size, bigger than plywood, for storage)
- Styrofoam strips/blocks (for storage padding)
- Strong tape (for storage box)
- Plastic wrap or large sealed plastic bin (for extra storage protection)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Foam Core Board: Using an exact-o knife, carefully cut your foam core board to 14×16 inches.
- Cover the Foam Core: Center the cut foam core board on your 18×20 inch piece of chosen fabric (red felt or burlap). This fabric will be the background for your candy. Securely wrap the fabric edges around to the back of the board and fasten them with a heavy-duty stapler. Trim any excess fabric for a neat finish.
- Prepare the Plywood Backing: Using the same wrapping and stapling method, cover the 16×18 inch plywood or chipboard with the contrasting 20×22 inch piece of fabric (burlap or red felt). This creates a durable frame.
- Assemble the Boards: Carefully place the fabric-covered foam core board onto the covered plywood. Using your stapler, secure the foam core to the plywood by stapling only in areas where you are certain you will be gluing candy on top. This hides the staples for a flawless appearance. (Remember: always secure the boards first, then glue candy!)
- Create the Oval Template (Optional): For an elegant candy border, cut a 13×15 inch piece of paper. Fold it horizontally, then vertically (into quarters). Draw a smooth curve on the un-folded edge, then cut along it. Unfold to reveal a symmetrical oval.
- Trace the Oval: Place the paper oval template on your fabric-covered foam core board. It should sit about half an inch from the edge on all sides. Use a pen to trace the oval; these marks will be covered by candy.
- Begin Candy Application – The Oval: Start by gluing candies along the traced oval line. This establishes your border and ensures you have sufficient space for the main tree design. Experiment with different candy types and arrangements to create an appealing frame.
- Construct the Candy Tree: With the oval complete, begin constructing your Christmas tree shape within the border. Use a generous amount of Elmer’s glue or hot glue to firmly attach each candy piece. Get creative with layering, colors, and shapes to build a vibrant and unique tree. Don’t forget to embellish any remaining corners of your board.
- Allow to Dry: Once all candies are securely glued, let your craft dry completely for at least overnight. This is crucial for stability.
- Add Hanging Hardware: On the back of the plywood, nail or screw in a large sawtooth picture hanger. Measure to center it left-to-right for balanced hanging.
- Prepare for Storage (Long-Term Protection): To store your tree, take two large cardboard pieces, identical in size and larger than your plywood backing. On one cardboard piece, glue strips of Styrofoam around the edges; ensure the Styrofoam is taller than the highest point of your candy. Place the candy tree face up in the center. Position the second cardboard piece on top, forming a protective box. Securely tape all four sides together.
- Climate-Controlled Storage: Always store your candy tree inside your house, in a climate-controlled environment, not in a garage or attic. High heat can melt candy, and fluctuating temperatures can damage it. For extra protection, consider wrapping the cardboard box tightly in plastic wrap or placing the entire package inside a sealed plastic storage bin.
*You can substitute heavy cardboard for the foam core board if preferred.