I’ve been collecting old books for years, green ones are my favorite! One of my favorite holiday projects is turning them into tabletop Christmas trees. There’s something special about giving worn-out books new life as holiday decor, especially when they’re styled with vintage flair.
Last year, I created my favorite tabletop version yet using tattered assorted green hardcovers arranged in an open-book pattern on an old cream-colored cake stand. With a simple ribbon topper and some greens tucked in, it became the perfect vintage-inspired centerpiece for my green card catalog in our front hall.
Let me show you how to create your own book trees, whether you prefer the classic stacked style or the more dramatic open-book design. I’ll share where to find the right books, what makes a good base, and how to add those finishing touches that make these trees look special.
Two Ways to Create Book Trees
Stacked Style: Hardcover books work best for this look – paperbacks struggle to hold their shape. Start with larger books (8-10 inches wide) at the base and work up to tiny volumes at the top. Each layer needs 3-4 books arranged in a circle, spines facing out. Angle each book slightly inward for that classic tree taper.
Between each layer, tuck in small sprigs of greenery or berries. These fill any gaps and add natural texture. I like using fresh pine, but preserved eucalyptus or faux greens work great too.
For stability, overlap each layer slightly and keep your stack centered. If books are different thicknesses, use thin paperbacks as shims to keep layers level. An uneven base will lead to toppling trees.
Open Book Style: This is my current favorite look. The key is starting with the right base – I use a cake stand with a 10-inch diameter top. A smaller base creates a steeper, more dramatic tree shape, while a wider one gives you a fuller silhouette.
To build it, open each hardcover book fully and place spine-up, overlapping pages slightly. Stack books so each one sits about an inch back from the one below. Keep checking your tree from all angles as you build – it’s easier to adjust books early on than fix a leaning tower later.
For stability, arrange the heaviest books at the bottom and lightest at the top.
Finding the Right Books
The color of your books sets the tone. I used all green books for a traditional look, but you can go monochrome with browns or mix colors for something more playful. Old red books mixed with gold-toned ones create a classic holiday feel.
When collecting books, you’ll need a variety of sizes. For stacked trees, gather books ranging from large (8-10 inches wide) for the base to small books (4-5 inches) for the top.
Condition matters less than you might think. Those worn edges and tattered spines add character to your display. Just make sure the covers are still attached and the spines are intact enough to stay stable when stacked.
Where to Find Old Books: Thrift stores are my go-to source – especially Goodwill, where hardcovers are usually under $2. I’m the one in the book aisle looking under to book jacket to see the hardcover color! Library book sales often have vintage books for great prices, especially on their final “fill a bag” days. Estate sales are treasure troves for old hardcovers, especially early in the morning. Online, try Facebook Marketplace or local buy/sell groups – people often sell boxes of old books for just a few dollars. You can also try Books By the Foot, this company, well you guessed it sells books by the foot. You are able to choose from a rainbow of colors, perfect for using books in decor.
When searching, don’t overlook books with damaged pages inside – remember, we’re using these for display, not reading. Focus on spine color and cover condition.
Tip: If you prefer specific colors for your book tree, you can transform old thrift store finds with paint or fabric. I’ve used chalk paint for a matte finish that adheres well to book covers – just wipe them clean first and apply two thin coats to the top and the spine of the book. You can see this painting process in my post on DIY Book Stacks. Or for some holiday sparkle use gold spray paint on the covers! For a softer look, wrap books in linen or burlap, folding corners neatly and securing with fabric glue. Brown kraft paper works too, especially if you want to add stamped patterns.
Choosing Your Base
The right base adds height and style to your book tree. Vintage cake stands are my favorite – look for those with scalloped edges or ornate metal trim. Pedestal plates work beautifully too, especially old ironstone or milk glass pieces.
Think creatively with what you have. I’ve used small stoneware pitchers, short candle holders, vintage tins and wooden boxes. The key is making sure your base is stable and wide enough to support your tree. For reference, my open book tree sits on a 10-inch cake stand, which provides perfect stability while adding about 4 inches of height.
For stacked trees, you might want a shorter base since they naturally grow taller. Just be sure whatever you choose has a flat, level surface.
Tip: For a permanent book tree that can be stored and reused each year, secure the books together with a hot glue gun. Add small dots of glue between layers and let them dry completely. Just be aware that this will permanently alter your books – so use books you don’t mind dedicating to this project.
Finishing Touches for Your Tree
For a traditional look, try a vintage star or small angel on top of the tree. I love using old mercury glass ornaments or miniature church steeples as toppers – they add that perfect vintage charm.
Get creative with alternatives like a brass bird, a pinecone spray, or even a cluster of vintage costume jewelry. One of my favorite toppers is a simple bow made from aged velvet ribbon with some pine tucked in.
For DIY options, try folding old sheet music into a star shape or crafting a simple bow using vintage lace. If you’re using your tree as a centerpiece, keep the topper proportionate – anything too tall can block conversation across the table.
Whatever you choose, make sure it’s lightweight. Heavy toppers can make your tree unstable, especially on open-book styles.
Adding Extra Sparkle
A strand of battery-operated fairy lights woven through your book tree adds a magical glow. Choose warm white LEDs with thin copper wire that’s easy to hide between pages or layers.
For ribbon, I like using narrow velvet or silk wrapped loosely around stacked trees, or tucked between open book pages. Keep it casual – too perfect looks artificial.
Tuck small sprigs of greenery between layers. Fresh pine, boxwood, or preserved eucalyptus all work well. Just remember fresh greens need occasional misting and will need replacing every week or so.
Small vintage ornaments can nestle between books – mercury glass balls, tiny pinecones, or old glass beads add sparkle without overwhelming the design. Remember less is more – you want the books to be the star.
Displaying Your Book Trees
Book trees work perfectly on entry tables, mantels, or as dining table centerpieces. I like using corners of side tables where trees can be viewed from multiple angles.
Create interest by varying heights when grouping trees together. Try a taller stacked tree (about 18 inches) paired with a shorter open-book version (12 inches). Groups of three trees in different sizes look especially striking.
Remember scale – tall trees can overwhelm small tables, while tiny ones might get lost on large surfaces. If your tree will be viewed from above (like on a coffee table), pay extra attention to the top arrangement.
For more holiday decor inspiration, please visit:
Creating a book Christmas tree adds such a personal touch to holiday decorating. Whether you choose the stacked style for your living room or an open-book version for your tabletop, these little trees turn old books into charming Christmas decorations. Best of all, they’re a thrift store project that brings vintage character to your space.
Remember to check that you have enough books before starting, and take time arranging them for stability. The weight of the books actually helps keep everything secure once positioned correctly.
Making book trees might just become your new Christmas tradition – they’re perfect for book lovers who want to add something unique to their seasonal decor. Plus, these trees look beautiful throughout the holiday season.
Merry Christmas Friends!
