9 Simple Farmhouse Christmas Coffee Table Decor Ideas 2025

Struggling to make your living room feel festive without looking cluttered? Your coffee table is the heart of the room, but styling it for Christmas can feel like a puzzle. You want that cozy, welcoming farmhouse vibe you see online, but aren’t sure where to begin.

To style a farmhouse Christmas coffee table, start with a foundational piece like a rustic wood tray or dough bowl. Layer in natural textures such as evergreen sprigs and pinecones, add warm ambiance with candles or fairy lights, and finish with a personal touch like mini ornaments or bottle brush trees. This approach creates a contained, layered, and inviting centerpiece.

Drawing from years of personal experience styling homes for the holidays, this guide combines proven interior design principles with practical, budget-friendly solutions. We’ll walk through simple, step-by-step ideas to transform your coffee table. Get ready to create a warm, inviting focal point for your holiday gatherings.

How Do You Style a Farmhouse Coffee Table for a Cozy Christmas?

The key is to create a curated, layered look that feels both intentional and effortlessly charming. Instead of scattering items randomly, think of your coffee table decor as a single, cohesive centerpiece. The farmhouse style celebrates natural textures, warmth, and simplicity, which are perfect for creating that sought-after cozy Christmas atmosphere in your living room.

Begin with a solid foundation. A rustic wood tray, a shallow dough bowl, or even a stack of hardcover books can serve as the base for your display. This simple step immediately corrals your decor, making it look organized and preventing clutter. From there, it’s all about layering. Introduce natural elements like faux cedar branches, pinecones, and wood bead garlands to add texture and an organic feel. Finally, incorporate a source of warm light—be it flameless candles in a lantern, a string of delicate fairy lights woven through your arrangement, or glowing mason jars—to bring that magical holiday ambiance to life.

14 Must-Try Farmhouse Christmas Coffee Table Decor Ideas for 2025

Here are 14 distinct and beautiful ideas to inspire your farmhouse Christmas coffee table decor. Each one is a simple mini-tutorial designed to be easy to follow and replicate, turning your living room into a cozy holiday haven.

1. Create a Rustic Tiered Tray Wonderland

Pin this cozy tiered tray idea to your ‘Christmas Decor’ board!

Materials Needed:

• A two or three-tier farmhouse-style tray (distressed wood or galvanized metal)
• A variety of miniature bottle brush trees in different sizes and shades of green
• Small ceramic houses or churches
• A string of battery-operated copper wire fairy lights
• Faux snow or buffalo snow for the base
• Mini pinecones and faux cranberry sprigs

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Build Your Base: Start by sprinkling a light layer of faux snow on each tier of the tray.
2. Place Anchor Items: Arrange the largest items first. Place 2-3 ceramic houses on different tiers to create focal points.
3. Add Height with Trees: Tuck the bottle brush trees in between the houses, varying their heights and colors for visual interest.
4. Fill in Gaps: Use the mini pinecones and cranberry sprigs to fill any empty spots, adding texture and a pop of color.
5. Weave in Lights: Carefully weave the string of fairy lights throughout both tiers, tucking the battery pack behind the tray.

Pro-Tip: To create a sense of depth, place darker colored items towards the back and lighter items towards the front of each tier. This is a key principle of visual balance.

2. Style a Lush and Rustic Dough Bowl Centerpiece

Save this beautiful dough bowl idea for your cozy living room!

Materials Needed:

• One large, rustic wood dough bowl (18-24 inches long)
• High-quality faux greenery stems (cedar, pine, or eucalyptus)
• A set of three battery-operated flameless pillar candles in varying heights
• A mix of large and small natural pinecones
• Optional: Jingle bells, dried orange slices, or cinnamon sticks

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Create a Greenery Bed: Lay the faux greenery stems inside the dough bowl, crisscrossing them to create a full, lush base. Let some sprigs drape over the edges.
2. Position the Candles: Place the three flameless candles in the center of the greenery, arranged in a slight triangle. Ensure they are stable.
3. Fill with Pinecones: Tuck the large pinecones in between the candles and greenery. Use the smaller pinecones to fill any remaining gaps.
4. Add Accents: Sprinkle in your optional accents like jingle bells or dried orange slices for extra texture and seasonal scent.

Lesson Learned: My first time doing this, I used real candles and it was a mess! Using high-quality flameless candles with a remote gives you the same cozy glow without any risk or waxy cleanup.

3. Assemble a Glowing Mason Jar Vignette

Need a simple DIY? Pin this charming mason jar craft!

Materials Needed:

• Three wide-mouth mason jars
• Epsom salt
• Faux frosted cranberries or mini red pom-poms
• Small sprigs of faux pine or cedar
• Three sets of short, battery-operated fairy lights
• Jute twine

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Create the Snow Base: Pour Epsom salt into each mason jar until it is about one-third full.
2. Add Festive Fillers: Drop a few faux cranberries and a small sprig of greenery into each jar, nestled on top of the “snow.”
3. Light It Up: Turn on the fairy lights and carefully coil one string inside each jar, tucking the battery pack down into the Epsom salt to hide it.
4. Add the Finishing Touch: Tie a piece of jute twine in a simple bow around the rim of each jar.
5. Arrange: Group the three jars together on a small wooden tray or directly on your coffee table.

Pro-Tip: For an extra touch, use a foam brush to apply a thin layer of Mod Podge to the outside of the jars, then roll them in Epsom salt for a beautiful frosted look before filling.

4. Layer Textures with a Cozy Tray and Books

Pin this simple and elegant styling idea for a timeless look!

Materials Needed:

• Two or three hardcover coffee table books with neutral or festive-colored spines
• A small decorative tray (wood, metal, or ceramic)
• A festive scented candle in an attractive jar (e.g., pine, cinnamon, or vanilla)
• A long strand of natural wood bead garland with a tassel
• One small decorative object, like a brass reindeer or a mercury glass ornament

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Create a Foundation: Stack the coffee table books in the center of your table, slightly offset from one another.
2. Add the Tray: Place the decorative tray on top of the books. This creates another layer of height and corrals smaller items.
3. Place Key Objects: Set the scented candle and the small decorative object on the tray.
4. Drape the Garland: Artfully drape the wood bead garland, letting it spill from the tray, across the books, and onto the coffee table surface to connect all the elements.

Pro-Tip: This is a perfect example of the ‘Rule of Three’. Using three main objects on the tray (candle, decorative object, garland) creates a visually appealing and balanced composition.

5. Design a Classic Lantern and Greenery Scene

Love timeless decor? Save this classic lantern idea!

Materials Needed:

• One large farmhouse-style lantern (12-18 inches tall)
• A thick, white LED pillar candle that fits comfortably inside the lantern
• A small, high-quality faux wreath (eucalyptus, boxwood, or pine) that fits around the base of the lantern
• Optional: A few small pinecones or jingle bells to tuck into the wreath

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Prepare the Lantern: Clean the glass panes of the lantern for maximum sparkle. Place the LED pillar candle inside, ensuring it’s centered.
2. Position the Lantern: Place the lantern in the center of your coffee table.
3. Add the Wreath: Gently slide the miniature wreath over the top of the lantern and let it rest at the base, creating a beautiful, lush foundation.
4. Embellish (Optional): If desired, tuck a few small pinecones or bells into the wreath foliage for added texture and a festive touch.

Lesson Learned: Always opt for an LED candle inside a lantern for coffee table decor. It’s worry-free, especially with pets or kids, and many have timers so your centerpiece automatically glows each evening.

6. Showcase a Collection of Bottle Brush Trees

Pin this simple and whimsical winter forest idea!

Materials Needed:

• A collection of 7-9 bottle brush trees in varying heights and coordinating colors (e.g., shades of green, cream, and silver)
• A round tray with a lip (galvanized metal, wood, or ceramic)
• A bag of fine faux snow or clear glitter

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Prepare the Tray: Pour a generous layer of faux snow onto the tray, spreading it evenly.
2. Create the Forest: Begin placing the bottle brush trees on the tray. Start with the tallest tree in the center or slightly off-center.
3. Build Outward: Arrange the remaining trees around the tallest one, creating a small, dense “forest.” Vary the spacing and heights to look natural.
4. Secure the Trees: Gently press the base of each tree into the faux snow to help it stand securely. Add another light dusting of snow over the bases to blend them in.

Pro-Tip: For a modern farmhouse look, stick to a neutral color palette of white, cream, and champagne-colored trees. For a more traditional rustic feel, use a variety of green shades.

7. Fill a Glass Cloche with Vintage Ornaments

Save this elegant idea for a touch of vintage charm!

Materials Needed:

• One glass cloche or bell jar with a base (wood or metal)
• A collection of small-to-medium sized mercury glass ornaments
• Optional: A short string of micro fairy lights

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Arrange the Ornaments: Carefully pile the mercury glass ornaments onto the base of the cloche. Place the largest ones on the bottom for stability.
2. Vary Shapes and Textures: Mix different shapes (round, teardrop, finial) and textures (smooth, patterned) for the most interesting look.
3. Add Lights (Optional): If using lights, weave them in between the ornaments as you stack them, leaving the battery pack outside the back of the cloche.
4. Cover with Cloche: Gently place the glass dome over the arrangement, making sure it sits securely on its base.

Pro-Tip: This is a perfect way to showcase treasured or delicate family ornaments on a busy coffee table, keeping them safe from pets and little hands while still on beautiful display.

8. Layer a Mini Wreath on a Stack of Books

Pin this charming and simple decor idea for any surface!

Materials Needed:

• Three old hardcover books (look for neutral or green/red covers)
• A length of jute twine or ribbon
• One small, preserved boxwood wreath (4-6 inches in diameter)

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Prepare the Books: Remove any dust jackets from the books. Stack them from largest to smallest.
2. Tie the Stack: Wrap the twine or ribbon around the stack of books and tie it in a simple knot or bow on top.
3. Top with Wreath: Simply lay the mini boxwood wreath on top of the book stack, centered over the knot.

Pro-Tip: Hunt for old books at thrift stores. You can often find beautiful, cloth-bound books for a dollar or two that are perfect for decorating.

9. Craft a Faux Birch Log and Pine Cone Display

Save this rustic woodland idea for a natural Christmas look!

Materials Needed:

• A shallow basket or long, low wooden crate
• A set of 3-5 faux birch logs
• A variety of large pinecones (sugar pinecones work well)
• Faux cedar or pine greenery picks
• Jute twine

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Bundle the Logs: Tie the bundle of faux birch logs together with a generous length of jute twine.
2. Position the Bundle: Place the bundled logs in the basket, either centered or slightly to one side.
3. Add Greenery: Tuck the greenery picks into the basket, surrounding the logs to create a lush base.
4. Fill with Pinecones: Fill in the remaining space in the basket with the large pinecones, piling them naturally around the logs and greenery.

Lesson Learned: Using faux birch logs is much cleaner and lighter than real ones, and you don’t have to worry about insects or dirt on your coffee table.

10. Go Minimalist with a Single Statement Branch

Pin this elegant and minimalist idea for a modern farmhouse look!

Materials Needed:

• One modern, neutral-colored vase (ceramic or glass)
• One large, high-quality faux evergreen branch (look for one with realistic texture and maybe a few attached pinecones)
• Optional: A single, elegant brass candlestick with a white taper candle

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Prepare the Branch: Bend and fluff the faux branch to give it a natural shape and movement.
2. Place in Vase: Simply place the single branch into the vase. Let it lean naturally to one side for an organic, asymmetrical look.
3. Add the Candlestick (Optional): Place the brass candlestick next to the vase to create a simple, curated vignette.

Pro-Tip: The key to this look is scale. Choose a branch that is tall and substantial enough to make a statement on its own. It should be at least 1.5 times the height of the vase.

11. Arrange a Trio of Mini Frosted Wreaths

Love this simple idea! Pin it for later.

Materials Needed:

• A long, narrow tray or a simple table runner
• Three identical mini wreaths or candle rings (about 6 inches in diameter)
• Three battery-operated LED tea lights or small votive candles

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Set the Foundation: Place your long tray or table runner down the center of your coffee table.
2. Position the Wreaths: Lay the three mini wreaths flat on the tray, spacing them out evenly in a straight line.
3. Add the Glow: Place one flameless tea light in the center of each wreath.

Pro-Tip: This is an incredibly versatile idea. You can swap the frosted pine wreaths for eucalyptus or berry wreaths to change the look, or use taller pillar candles for more height.

12. Create a “Hot Cocoa Station” Tray

Pin this adorable and functional hot cocoa station idea!

Materials Needed:

• A medium-sized tray (enamel, wood, or galvanized metal)
• Two festive holiday mugs
• Small glass jars with lids for toppings
• Mini marshmallows
• Hot cocoa mix (in a jar or original packaging)
• Candy canes or peppermint sticks
• A small decorative element like a mini bottle brush tree or sign

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Fill Your Jars: Fill one small jar with mini marshmallows and another with hot cocoa mix.
2. Arrange the Tray: Place the mugs and jars on the tray. Group them together to create a cohesive look.
3. Add Stirrers: Stand the candy canes up in one of the mugs or lay them on the tray.
4. Final Touch: Add the small bottle brush tree or festive sign to an empty spot on the tray to complete the look.

Pro-Tip: This is a perfect idea for families with kids or for when you’re expecting guests. It’s decor that invites interaction and creates cozy memories.

13. Drape a Simple Cedar Garland

Save this effortless and elegant garland idea!

Materials Needed:

• One high-quality, realistic-looking faux cedar garland (6-foot length is versatile)
• Optional: Two brass or black metal taper candlestick holders

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Drape the Garland: Lay the garland across the length of your coffee table. Instead of centering it perfectly, let it meander and drape off one of the corners for a more organic, styled look.
2. Fluff and Shape: Spend a minute fluffing and bending the individual branches of the garland to give it volume and a natural appearance.
3. Add Balance (Optional): On the end of the table opposite the cascading garland, place the two candlestick holders to create visual balance and height.

Lesson Learned: It’s worth investing in a high-quality, “real touch” faux garland. It costs more upfront, but it drapes better, looks incredibly realistic, and will last for many holiday seasons.

14. Display Antique Brass Bells on a Tray

Pin this gorgeous vintage-inspired bell decor!

Materials Needed:

• A shallow tray (wood or marble works well)
• A collection of 5-7 antique-style brass bells with jute or velvet hangers
• A few small sprigs of real or faux greenery (cedar or pine)

Step-by-Step Directions:

1. Place the Greenery: Lay a few sprigs of greenery down on the tray as a base.
2. Arrange the Bells: Artfully arrange the brass bells on top of the greenery. Let them overlap and pile on top of each other for a collected, casual look.
3. Drape the Ropes: Allow the jute ropes or velvet ribbons to drape naturally over the sides of the tray, adding another layer of texture.

Pro-Tip: Look for bells with a “clapper” inside that makes a gentle sound. The subtle jingle when the table is bumped adds another sensory layer to your holiday decor.

Key Takeaways: Your Quick Guide to Farmhouse Christmas Coffee Table Decor

Feeling inspired? Here are the core principles to remember as you start styling your own farmhouse Christmas coffee table.

• Start with a Base: Always use a tray, dough bowl, or stack of books to ground your decor and keep it from looking cluttered.
• Layer Natural Textures: Combine elements like wood, greenery, pinecones, and cozy fabrics to create a warm, inviting feel.
• Incorporate Warm Light: Use flameless candles, lanterns, or fairy lights to add a magical holiday glow.
• Play with Height: Mix items of varying heights, like tall candles, medium-sized objects, and low-lying garlands, to create visual interest.
• Keep it Simple: Farmhouse style is about curated simplicity. You don’t need to use every idea—pick one or two that you love and let them shine.

People Also Ask About Farmhouse Christmas Coffee Table Decor

What do you put on a coffee table for Christmas?

For a classic Christmas coffee table, start with a centerpiece like a dough bowl filled with greenery and ornaments, or a tiered tray with festive miniatures. Add warmth with flameless candles or fairy lights. Incorporate natural elements like pinecones and wood bead garlands. Finish with personal touches like a favorite holiday mug or a scented candle.

How can I make my coffee table look Christmassy on a budget?

You can create a beautiful Christmassy coffee table on a budget by using natural elements and simple DIYs. Forage for pinecones and branches from your yard (bake them on low heat to de-bug). Create glowing luminaries with Epsom salt and fairy lights in mason jars. Thrift stores are also a great source for old books and unique trays to use as a base.

How do you decorate a small farmhouse coffee table for Christmas?

For a small coffee table, focus on vertical decor to save space. Use a single tall vase with a festive branch, a glass cloche filled with ornaments, or a compact tiered tray. These options draw the eye upward without taking up the entire surface, leaving room for drinks and remotes while still feeling festive.

How do I make my Christmas decor look cohesive?

To make your Christmas decor look cohesive, stick to a consistent color palette and style. For a farmhouse look, use neutrals like white, cream, and wood tones, accented with traditional red and green. Repeat key elements, like a certain type of greenery (cedar) or metal (brass), on your coffee table, mantle, and tree to tie the whole room together.

Final Thoughts

Decorating your home for the holidays shouldn’t be stressful. It’s about creating a space that feels warm, joyful, and uniquely you. Your coffee table is the perfect starting point to infuse your home with the cozy, welcoming spirit of a farmhouse Christmas. Remember to have fun with it, mix and match elements you love, and create a centerpiece that brings a smile to your face every time you walk into the room.

Which of these ideas are you excited to try on your coffee table this November? Let me know in the comments below

Last update on 2025-11-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API