5 Creative Ideas to Repurpose Tree Stumps in Your Home

The interior design world is always buzzing with new ways to bring nature indoors, and one of our favourite trends at Kimball Building Supplies Centre involves tree stumps! Whether you have a stump leftover from a fallen tree or can source one from a local tree service, these rustic pieces can be transformed into stunning and functional home décor items. Here are five creative ideas for repurposed tree stumps in your home.

Coffee Tables

One of the most popular ways people use tree stumps in home decor is by turning them into tables! A tree-stump coffee table can be a striking centrepiece in your living room and fits any natural, Scandinavian, or boho vibe. The organic shape and natural texture of the wood bring a unique and warm feel to any space. Here's how to create your own:

• Preparation: Begin by selecting a stump of the right size and shape. Remove any bark and sand the surface smooth, ensuring the stump is properly dried to prevent cracking.
• Finishing: Apply a wood sealant or varnish to protect the surface and enhance the wood's natural grain. For a more polished look, consider adding a glass top.
• Legs and Wheels: Attach sturdy legs or castor wheels to the bottom of the stump for added height and mobility. Even when dried, tree stumps can be heavy!

Plant Stands and Planters

Tree stumps make excellent plant stands and planters, bringing a bit of the forest floor into your home. Here are some excellent ideas:

• Plant Stand: Use smaller stumps as stands for potted plants. Simply sand and finish the stump to your liking, then place your plant on top. The varying heights of the stumps can create a visually appealing display.
• Planter: To create a planter, hollow out the stump's centre to the desired depth. Drill holes in the bottom to ensure proper drainage, and line the inside with breathable fabric before adding soil and your chosen plants.

Chairs

Making chairs out of tree stumps is both fun and whimsical and perfect for kid's decor, outdoor garden parties, or a simple interior accent. If you're up for a bit of DIY work, here's how you can create a simple stump chair:

• Preparation: Select a large, sturdy stump that can support the weight of a person. Dry the stump, remove the bark, and sand the surface smooth.
• Seat and Backrest: For a more comfortable seat, you can carve out a shallow depression on the top of the stump. Attach a backrest made from another piece of wood or a smaller stump.
• Finishing: Apply a wood sealant to protect the chair from wear and tear, and add playful cushions for extra comfort and style.

Wall Shelves

Tree stumps can also be used to create unique and sturdy wall shelves perfect for displaying books, plants, or your favourite decorative items. Here's how:

• Cutting the Stump: Cut the stump into thin slices, around one to two inches thick, depending on the desired shelf thickness.
• Sanding and Finishing: Sand the slices smooth and apply a wood finish to protect them. For a more rustic look, leave the bark on the exposed side!
• Mounting: Use sturdy brackets to mount the slices on the wall, and make sure they're securely fastened to support the weight of the items you plan to place on them.

Repurposing tree stumps into home décor items is not only environmentally friendly but also adds a unique, rustic charm to your living space. With our modern design shifting more into the realm of au naturel, this could be the perfect way to blend more of the natural world into your home. With a bit of creativity and some basic woodworking skills, you can transform these natural elements into stunning and functional pieces that bring the beauty of the outdoors inside.

Love these ideas? Come see us today at Kimball Building Supplies Centre for more expert tips, advice, and trending ways to make your home beautiful.