How To Repurpose Old Video Game Controllers Into Custom Christmas Tree Toppers

In an age where nostalgia meets sustainability, reimagining outdated tech into holiday decor isn’t just clever—it’s meaningful. Millions of video game controllers sit unused in drawers, victims of console upgrades or changing gaming habits. Rather than letting them gather dust or end up in landfills, consider transforming them into one-of-a-kind Christmas tree toppers. This project blends retro charm with seasonal spirit, offering a personal touch that store-bought ornaments simply can’t match.

Repurposing old controllers is more than a craft—it’s a tribute to the games and memories they represent. Whether it’s a childhood NES pad, a worn PlayStation DualShock, or a chunky Xbox 360 controller, each has character worth preserving. With minimal tools and a bit of creativity, you can create a centerpiece that sparks conversation and honors your gaming legacy.

Gather Your Materials and Tools

Before diving into the build, assemble everything you’ll need. Most items are affordable and readily available at hardware or craft stores. The key is selecting a controller in decent structural condition—cracked casings can still work if reinforced properly.

Tip: Test the controller first. Even if it no longer connects to a console, responsive buttons and intact joysticks enhance visual appeal.

Basic materials:

• Old video game controller (any brand or model)
• Sturdy wooden dowel or metal rod (for the stake)
• Hot glue gun and glue sticks
• E6000 or epoxy adhesive (for permanent bonding)
• Wire cutters or small saw
• Sandpaper (medium grit)
• Acrylic paint and brushes (optional)
• Clear sealant spray (matte or glossy)
• Decorative elements: LED string lights, mini figurines, faux snow, ribbon

The choice of controller affects both aesthetics and balance. Smaller models like SNES or Sega Genesis pads are lighter and easier to mount. Larger ones, such as modern wireless controllers, may require additional support but offer greater surface area for customization.

Step-by-Step Assembly Process

Creating a stable, visually appealing topper requires careful preparation and assembly. Follow this timeline to ensure durability and safety on your tree.

1. Disassemble the controller (optional): Remove screws from the back panel to open the casing. This allows access to internal components and reduces weight. Discard circuit boards and batteries—recycle responsibly.
2. Clean and prep the shell: Wipe down plastic with rubbing alcohol to remove grime and oils. Lightly sand glossy surfaces if painting later to improve adhesion.
3. Prepare the mounting stake: Cut a wooden dowel or metal rod to 8–12 inches, depending on tree height. Sand the edges smooth. This will anchor the controller into the top branch.
4. Attach the stake: Position the dowel vertically against the center of the controller’s back. Use hot glue to temporarily hold it in place, then reinforce with epoxy. Allow 24 hours to cure fully.
5. Customize the design: Paint logos, add team colors, or glue on themed miniatures—like a tiny Mario or Link figure. Embed micro LED lights under buttons for a glowing effect.
6. Seal and protect: Once decorations are complete, apply a clear sealant to protect paint and prevent plastic degradation over time.
7. Test fit on tree: Gently insert the stake into the topmost branch. Adjust angle or add floral wire for extra stability if needed.

Balance is critical. If the controller leans, redistribute weight by adding small washers inside the casing or adjusting the dowel position slightly off-center to counteract heaviness.

Tip: Use floral foam or a small cork base around the stake tip to cushion insertion and prevent branch damage.

Design Inspiration and Customization Ideas

Your topper doesn’t have to look like a standard controller. Think beyond function—this is art. Here are several themes to inspire your build:

• Retro Rainbow: Paint directional pads and buttons in bright, gradient colors reminiscent of 8-bit palettes.
• Festive Arcade: Wrap the body in red-and-green washi tape, add tinsel through the trigger slots, and glue on jingle bells.
• Nostalgia Tribute: Preserve original branding but highlight iconic games—attach a tiny cartridge replica or engrave release years.
• Glowing Galaxy: Coat the interior with glow-in-the-dark paint and embed fiber-optic strands to mimic stars.
• Family Legacy: Engrave names and dates (“Dad’s 1998 GoldenEye Champion”) for heirloom value.

For families who game together, create multiple smaller toppers from different controllers and stack them vertically on a single pole—each representing a generation of players.

“Upcycling tech into decor bridges emotional memory with sustainable practice. These aren’t just ornaments—they’re storytelling devices.” — Dr. Lena Torres, Digital Culture Historian, University of Michigan

Do’s and Don’ts: A Quick Reference Table

Do	Don’t
Use lightweight controllers when possible	Choose heavy models without reinforcing the stake
Recycle electronic components responsibly	Dispose of batteries or circuit boards in regular trash
Seal painted surfaces for longevity	Skip sealing—especially if used annually
Incorporate battery-powered LEDs (safe, cool)	Use plug-in lights near dry trees (fire risk)
Test stability before final placement	Assume all trees can support unbalanced loads

Real Example: The Smith Family’s Gaming Heritage Tree Topper

The Smiths of Portland, Oregon, turned their annual tree decoration into a multigenerational tradition. When their eldest son left for college, he donated his childhood PlayStation 2 controller—worn from countless hours of *Guitar Hero* battles. His parents decided to honor it by crafting a topper featuring not only the controller but also miniature plastic guitars glued to the shoulder buttons.

They painted the backplate in metallic silver, added a looping strand of warm-white micro LEDs around the edge, and mounted it on a stained oak dowel. Each year since, they’ve added a new element: a tiny graduation cap in 2021, a wedding ring charm in 2023. Now, the topper sits atop their tree like a family crest—a symbol of shared joy and evolving milestones.

“It started as a way to avoid waste,” says Sarah Smith, “but it became something deeper. Every time we turn on the lights, we remember who we were—and how far we’ve come.”

Common Questions (FAQ)

Can I use a broken or non-functional controller?

Absolutely. Functionality isn’t required—only structural integrity. In fact, removing internal electronics often makes the unit lighter and easier to modify. Just ensure the casing isn’t severely cracked or brittle.

Is this safe for real Christmas trees?

Yes, as long as you use low-heat lighting solutions like battery-powered LEDs. Avoid any wiring that generates heat or requires plugging in. Always check local fire codes and keep the tree well-watered to reduce flammability risks.

How do I store the topper after the holidays?

Store it in a padded box or ornament container, ideally wrapped in tissue paper. Keep it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent plastic yellowing. Label it clearly so it becomes part of your annual ritual.

Checklist: Build Your Controller Tree Topper in 7 Steps

Build Checklist:

1. ☐ Choose a controller with sentimental or aesthetic value
2. ☐ Disassemble and clean the casing; recycle internal parts
3. ☐ Cut and sand a wooden or metal stake (8–12 inches)
4. ☐ Securely attach the stake using epoxy adhesive
<5>☐ Customize with paint, lights, or themed accessories
5. ☐ Seal the surface with protective spray
6. ☐ Test stability on your tree and adjust as needed

Conclusion: Turn Playtime Into Tradition

Transforming an old video game controller into a Christmas tree topper is more than a DIY win—it’s a celebration of personal history. It turns forgotten tech into a beacon of memory, blending play, art, and sustainability into a single glowing ornament. Each button press once launched adventures; now, its presence launches conversations, laughter, and reflection.

With simple tools and thoughtful design, anyone can create a piece that stands out—not just on the tree, but in the heart. As gaming continues to shape culture, these handmade toppers serve as cultural artifacts, reminding us that joy isn’t disposable, even when the hardware is.

💬 What controller holds the most memories for you? Share your story, tag a fellow gamer, or post a photo of your finished topper. Let’s build a community where nostalgia powers creativity—one tree at a time.