Interior Design

Trending Now: Feather Trees

A traditional piece in Christmas decor, feather trees are tickling a new generation of holiday revelers.

By Marie Proeller Hueston

Modern Classics

1/11

Although the tradition of feather trees began in Germany more than a century ago, these playful pieces look right at home in a modern setting.

Better Homes & Gardens
More Space

2/11

In addition to their small scale, the wide spacing between branches on a feather tree are ideally suited to displays of ornaments, like these vintage Shiny Brites arranged by Eclectically Vintage.

Eclectically Vintage

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Berries and Boughs

3/11

Faux berries are a common adornment on the branches of green feather trees. This 24" design is just one of many from The Feather Tree Co.

The Feather Tree co.
White is Right

4/11

White feather trees—a popular color choice since these holiday decorations were first sold in the US—continue to attract attention today.

Real Simple

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Goose Feathers

5/11

True to their name, feather trees are hand-crafted by attaching dyed goose feathers to wire so that they resemble pine boughs. The branches are then inserted into a wood dowel "trunk", which in turn is set into a base.

Aaron Beacon Journal/Photographer Michael Chritton
Color Choices

6/11

The classic feather trees feature green branches with red berries or ivory branches. Updated variations boast a full range of colors, like these assorted hues from The Feather Tree Co.

The Feathre Tree co.

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Sheer Delight

7/11

Designer Amy Chalmers (of Maison Decor) was thrilled to decorate a 24" feather tree she had purchased on eBay. This Martha Stewart (for Kmart) tree is no longer being produced, but it can still be found online.

Maison Decor
Patriotic Tribute

8/11

Many homeowners use feather trees throughout the year, displaying Easter eggs, Halloween decorations, and more. This one exhibits a definite patriotic flair with its red-white-and-blue ornaments.

Happier Than a Pig

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Care and Storage

9/11

Feather trees should be stored in a closet or a climate-controlled location, not in an attic or basement where they will be exposed to extreme heat or moisture. Avoid storing your tree in an airtight container; instead, cover it with a pillowcase (or paper bag) with cedar blocks.

Martha Stewart
Peacock Trees

10/11

A great source of feathers for all manner of craft and fashion projects, Feather Place also offers an exotic twist on the feather tree: a design that incorporates peacock feathers.

Feather Place

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For More...

11/11

For more on holiday decorating, consider:

How To: Make a Pine Cone Garland

How To: Keep a Christmas Tree Fresh

How To: Make an Evergreen Wreath

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