Wood Christmas Tree Decor

Start with the two top pieces. The top point is cut at 40° off square and the bottom of each at 25° off square. Rotate the miter saw to each angle and cut the boards flat; a compound saw lets you bevel instead for a faceted top.

To make your own sizes, start here at the top and work down — the angles stay the same, only the lengths grow.

Measure and mark down 1/2" from the top piece and glue-and-brad-nail on the first row of branches. Work down the tree adding each row the same way, keeping the outer points aligned.

Attach the base to the bottom of the branch stack, then add the short trunk piece between the base and the lowest branch row. A brad and glue at each joint is plenty for decor weight.

Finish however you like — raw, white-washed, or painted. Build the medium and large trees the same way with their longer cut lists. Since they share the angles and nest together, the trio stores flat when the season's over.