How To Create A Boho Christmas Tree With Macrame And Dried Citrus Slices

The holiday season doesn’t have to mean shiny tinsel, plastic ornaments, or perfectly symmetrical decor. For those drawn to earthy textures, handmade details, and a touch of whimsy, the bohemian aesthetic offers a refreshing alternative. A boho Christmas tree blends natural elements, artisan craftsmanship, and free-spirited design into a festive centerpiece that feels warm, personal, and deeply inviting. At the heart of this look? Macrame and dried citrus slices—two materials that bring texture, warmth, and organic beauty to your holiday display.

This guide walks you through creating a complete boho Christmas tree using these signature elements. From selecting the right tree form to crafting your own macrame hangers and preparing long-lasting citrus decorations, every step is designed to be accessible, sustainable, and visually impactful. Whether you’re decorating a small apartment corner or reimagining your family’s annual tradition, this approach celebrates imperfection, creativity, and connection to nature.

Selecting the Right Tree Base for a Boho Vibe

The foundation of any Christmas tree is its structure, but in a boho setup, the “tree” doesn’t need to be traditional. You have several options depending on your space, style, and commitment to sustainability.

• Natural fir or pine tree: If you prefer a classic evergreen scent and full silhouette, choose an undecorated tree with visible branches. Avoid pre-lit models with bold lights or glossy finishes—opt instead for a raw, slightly asymmetrical shape that invites handmade touches.
• Faux tree in muted tones: Select one in sage green, gray-green, or even bleached white. Look for realistic branch textures and avoid high-gloss needles. These trees last for years and can be styled differently each season.
• Alternative forms: Consider a wall-mounted tree made from driftwood, copper piping, or woven willow. These minimalist versions work beautifully in small spaces and serve as a sculptural backdrop for macrame and citrus accents.

No matter which base you choose, ensure it has enough open space to accommodate hanging textiles and delicate ornaments. The goal is visibility—each macrame piece and citrus slice should be seen and appreciated.

Tip: Spray a light mist of water mixed with a drop of eucalyptus essential oil on a real tree to enhance its natural aroma without synthetic fragrances.

Creating Macrame Ornaments and Hangers

Macrame is the soul of boho decor. Its hand-tied knots, soft cotton cords, and flowing lines add tactile depth and artisanal charm. For a Christmas tree, macrame isn’t limited to large wall hangings—you can craft small, tree-specific ornaments that drape gently from branches.

Materials Needed:

• 3mm or 4mm cotton cord (undyed, natural beige works best)
• Scissors
• Wooden or driftwood beads (optional)
• Small metal rings or eye screws for attachment
• Measuring tape

Basic Knots to Master:

1. Overhand knot: Simple stopper at the end of a cord.
2. Double half-hitch knot: Creates diagonal or horizontal patterns; ideal for wrapping around a central strand.
3. Square knot: The most common macrame knot—forms a flat, interwoven pattern perfect for pendants.
4. Lark’s head knot: Used to attach cords to a ring or branch.

Project: Mini Macrame Tree Pendants

Cut four 18-inch cords. Fold them in half and use a Lark’s head knot to attach them to a small metal ring. Separate into two groups of four strands. Tie a square knot about 3 inches down. Repeat twice more, spacing knots 2 inches apart. Finish with a final overhand knot. Slide a wooden bead onto one pair before tying off for added detail.

Make 8–12 of these in varying lengths (6 to 10 inches) for visual rhythm. Hang them from different branch levels to create movement.

“Macrame brings intentionality to decoration. Each knot is a pause, a breath—perfect for a season meant to slow us down.” — Lena Torres, Textile Artist & Sustainable Decor Advocate

Drying and Preserving Citrus Slices for Long-Lasting Ornaments

Dried citrus slices are not only beautiful—they carry a subtle, fresh scent and symbolize abundance and warmth. When properly prepared, they can last through multiple holiday seasons.

How to Dry Citrus Slices:

1. Choose firm oranges, lemons, limes, or grapefruits. Organic is preferred to avoid pesticide residue.
2. Slice fruits into ¼-inch thick rounds using a sharp knife. Remove seeds.
3. Pat dry with paper towels to remove surface moisture.
4. Arrange slices on a parchment-lined baking sheet without overlapping.
5. Bake at 200°F (95°C) for 2–3 hours, flipping every 30 minutes, until fully dehydrated and crisp.
6. Let cool completely before handling.

Alternatively, use a food dehydrator on low heat (135°F) for 6–8 hours. Air drying is possible but takes 7–10 days and risks mold if humidity is high.

Tip: Add a few drops of cinnamon or clove essential oil to the baking sheet for a spiced citrus aroma.

To turn slices into ornaments, punch a small hole near the edge using a thin skewer or leather punch. Thread with thin jute twine or gold wire for hanging. For extra durability, lightly coat both sides with clear matte sealant—this prevents crumbling and protects against moisture.

Display Ideas:

• String 5–7 slices into a garland and drape across lower branches.
• Pair with eucalyptus sprigs and feathers for a layered wreath effect.
• Attach individual slices to the ends of macrame hangers for a fusion of textures.

Assembling Your Boho Tree: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now that your elements are ready, it’s time to bring everything together. This process should feel intuitive, not rigid. Let the tree’s shape guide your placement.

Step-by-Step Timeline:

1. Day 1: Set up the tree. Place it in a sturdy stand away from heat sources. Let it settle for a few hours.
2. Day 2: Begin with lighting. Use warm-white fairy lights with a timer. Wrap loosely, focusing on inner branches to create a glowing core. Avoid tight spirals—boho is about flow, not precision.
3. Day 3: Add greenery accents. Tuck in small bundles of dried eucalyptus, pampas grass, or preserved ferns using floral wire. These enhance texture without overwhelming.
4. Day 4: Hang macrame pieces. Start from the top third of the tree and work downward. Alternate lengths and styles to avoid repetition. Let some dangle freely, others rest on branches.
5. Day 5: Attach citrus slices. Combine individual hangers with short garlands. Cluster 2–3 slices near macrame ornaments to create focal points.
6. Day 6: Final layering. Add feathers, clay star ornaments, or vintage brooches. Include one or two meaningful heirlooms for personal history.
7. Day 7: Review and refine. Step back, view from different angles, and adjust balance. Remove anything that feels too crowded.

This gradual approach prevents decision fatigue and allows you to live with the tree as it evolves. It also makes the process meditative—a true act of seasonal preparation.

Boho Tree Care: Do’s and Don’ts

Maintaining your tree throughout December ensures it stays beautiful and safe. Natural materials require gentle handling and awareness of environmental factors.

Do	Don't
Keep the room humidity moderate to prevent citrus from cracking	Place near radiators, fireplaces, or heating vents
Dust lightly with a soft brush or blow gently with cool air	Use feather dusters that may snag macrame fibers
Store leftover citrus slices in an airtight container for next year	Leave wet or moldy fruit slices on the tree
Rotate delicate ornaments yearly to reduce wear	Hang heavy items from macrame cords not designed for weight
Photograph your design for inspiration next season	Use spray snow or glitter—these damage fibers and leave residue

Tip: If you notice citrus slices darkening too quickly, they weren’t fully dried—remove them to prevent attracting pests.

A Real Example: Maya’s Apartment Balcony Tree

Maya, a graphic designer in Portland, lives in a small studio with limited floor space. Each year, she struggled to fit a traditional tree. Two years ago, she built a 4-foot wall-mounted tree from reclaimed cedar planks in a triangular frame. She painted it with chalky white finish to blend with her neutral palette.

She crafted six macrame hangers using recycled cotton rope from old tote bags, incorporating turquoise beads from a broken necklace. Her citrus slices—mostly blood orange and Meyer lemon—were dried during a weekend workshop with friends. She sealed them with beeswax for a soft sheen.

The result was a vertical masterpiece that became a conversation starter. Neighbors admired it through her glass balcony door, and her cat couldn’t knock it over. Best of all, she reused 80% of the decor the following year, only adding new elements for variety.

“It’s not about having the biggest tree,” she says. “It’s about making space for meaning, even in a tiny home.”

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this tree pet-safe?

Yes. Avoid toxic plants like holly or mistletoe. Keep macrame cords out of reach if pets chew fabric. Use battery-operated lights instead of electric ones if cords are exposed. Dried citrus is non-toxic but should not be ingested in quantity—hang higher if needed.

How do I store macrame and citrus ornaments after the holidays?

Clean gently with a dry cloth. Store macrame flat or rolled in breathable cotton bags—never plastic, which traps moisture. Keep citrus slices in a sealed cardboard box with silica gel packets to absorb humidity. Label containers by year and theme for easy retrieval.

Where can I find quality cotton cord for macrame?

Look for 100% natural cotton rope from craft stores or online suppliers specializing in macrame. Brands like Lion Brand, Red Heart, or specialty shops on Etsy offer pre-cut kits. Recycled yarn from old clothing also works for smaller accents.

Final Checklist Before You Begin

Before gathering supplies, confirm you have everything needed for a smooth, enjoyable project.

1. ✅ Tree base selected and placed
2. ✅ Natural fiber cord (cotton, jute, or hemp)
3. ✅ Scissors, measuring tape, and clips for securing cords
4. ✅ Fresh citrus fruits (organic preferred)
5. ✅ Baking sheet and oven or dehydrator
6. ✅ Twine, wire, or ribbon for hanging
7. ✅ Warm-white fairy lights (battery or plug-in)
8. ✅ Optional: wooden beads, feathers, dried flowers
9. ✅ Clear matte sealant (for citrus protection)
10. ✅ Storage plan for post-holiday preservation

Conclusion: Embrace Imperfection, Celebrate Craft

A boho Christmas tree isn’t about perfection—it’s about presence. It’s the slight wobble in a hand-tied knot, the uneven hue of a dried orange slice, the way light catches a frayed thread and turns it golden. These details tell a story: that someone cared enough to make something real.

By combining macrame and dried citrus, you’re not just decorating—you’re reviving traditions of handmade living, mindful consumption, and sensory celebration. You’re choosing texture over shine, warmth over uniformity, and soul over spectacle.

💬 Ready to start your boho tree? Gather your citrus, cut your cord, and tie your first knot today. Share your creation online with #BohoTreeDIY and inspire others to embrace the beauty of handmade holidays.