by Vickie Gross

Created on: October 29, 2009   Last Updated: November 04, 2009

Rustic Christmas craft projects can be as natural and uncomplicated as when creating a hanging Norman Rockwell calendar, framed with smoothed and varnished tree branches. There are many beautiful and rustic Christmas craft projects available, from building a cedar chest to creating inspirational string art. Stained or varnished wood posts, logs or stumps can easily be drilled in the top to hold a candle with glass cover, in order to provide for an outdoor-lighted pathway. Just one thoughtful gift can often make a world of difference.

Building a cedar chest:

This project is so simple that there is no singular advice other than to build a box made of cedar planks and attach some hinges. A clasp lock, inside shelving, or a cushioned top are optional choices. This gift is worth its weight as a keepsake and will often pass with reflections of endearment from one generation to the next.

Making an Arrowhead Table:

If you know of someone who enjoys collecting arrowheads and you would like to give them something that is truly memorable for Christmas, here is an idea for making an arrowhead coffee table for practically no cost. Time is the main factor needed for making this project. Find the trunk of a tree that has a nice wood grain design, no bug or crack damages, and use a chain saw to cut a flat, thick slab of the trunks' wood off. This will be the tabletop. Remove the outer bark and lightly sand the edges if necessary. You can either make your own log stand for the table or give it legs. On the top of the slab, cut out indentions in the shape of arrowheads and smooth down your whole project if there are chain saw marks. If there are no chain saw marks, then you have done a very good job and can leave the project in its naturally rustic state. Thickly varnish the whole project, except for the top of the table. Once dry, assemble your project and then lay an arrowhead in each of the indented forms you made. Varnish the top of your table until you have a smoothly sealed and beautiful finish.

Making Bookends:

This simple project can be made by using two pieces of flat stainless steel metal. The metal should measure approximately 8 inches tall by 4 inches wide. Bend both sheets of metal (in opposite directions) so that you have two: 4x4x4 inch opposing "L" bookend holders. On the outside of each bookend, you can add photo's of your family, favorite authors, pets, etc.

Bread Basket Ensemble:

You can pick up a basket and a cloth table napkin from most variety stores at

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