Eco-Friendly Christmas Table Décor: Upcycled Jar Centrepieces
- Astrid van Essen
- Oct 28
- 3 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
I love decorating for Christmas, but I’m always drawn to simple ideas that don’t involve buying more things. This year, I decided to experiment with what I already have at home: a growing collection of glass jars.
From jam jars to old candle holders, they make the perfect base for creating festive centrepieces that feel warm, personal and sustainable. It’s a small act of creativity that turns everyday items into something beautiful.
Why Choose Upcycled Christmas Table Décor
There’s something satisfying about making decorations from things you’d usually throw away. Reusing jars and natural materials not only saves money but also reduces waste at one of the most consumer-heavy times of the year.
Eco-Friendly Christmas Table Décor fits perfectly with a minimalist Christmas table — calming, natural and clutter-free. Plus, it’s an easy project for anyone, whether you’re hosting dinner or simply want to add a bit of festive charm to your home.
What You’ll Need
Gather a few simple materials:
Glass jars (jam, coffee or yoghurt jars all work)
Dried oranges, pinecones and cinnamon sticks
Fresh or dried herbs such as rosemary, fir or eucalyptus
Twine, jute or recycled ribbon
Soy tealights, LED candles or small string lights
Small pebbles or moss for layering
Glue (optional)
Three Easy Jar Centrepiece Ideas
1. The Natural Glow Jar
Fill a clean jar with a few dried orange slices, small pinecones and a soy tealight or small string lights. When lit, the light shines softly through the amber glass and dried fruit, creating a warm, festive glow.
Tip: Place several together on a concrete tray to protect your surface and add a modern contrast.
2. Mini Vase Cluster
Mix and match jars of different heights and fill them with short sprigs of rosemary, eucalyptus and red berries. Arrange three or five down the centre of your table for a simple yet elegant look.
Tip: Keep to a neutral palette — greens, creams and a touch of deep red — to maintain a calm, natural aesthetic.
3. Layered Winter Scene
Create texture by layering moss, cranberries and tiny branches inside the jar. Add a little light using a small LED candle. It’s like a miniature woodland scene that captures the mood of winter.
Tip: Combine different jar sizes for depth and visual balance.
Styling Your Sustainable Christmas Table
A sustainable table doesn’t need to be plain. Mix your jar centrepieces with natural fabrics like linen or cotton, and add handmade pieces such as concrete trays or coasters for a modern touch. Keep colours muted — cream, sage, and soft gold — so the natural textures stand out.
Add a subtle fragrance by tucking in a few cinnamon sticks or adding drops of orange essential oil to the dried
decorations. It’s a beautiful way to bring warmth and scent into your home without synthetic sprays or glitter.
Turn It into a Gift
Upcycled jars make wonderful, eco-friendly gifts, too. Fill one with dried citrus and cinnamon, tie a piece of twine around the neck and add a small label or tag. It’s thoughtful, reusable and completely plastic-free — perfect as a host gift or table favour.
Final Thoughts
Creating your own Christmas table décor from upcycled jars is a small but meaningful way to celebrate more sustainably. It’s proof that beauty can come from simplicity — from what’s already in your home. With a few natural touches, your festive table will feel warm, thoughtful and unmistakably yours.
Eco-Friendly Christmas Table Décor FAQs
Q1: Can I use any type of glass jar?
Yes, most jars work well. Remove any paper labels and avoid very thin glass if you’re using real candles.
Q2: How long do dried oranges and herbs last?
If kept dry, they’ll last several months. You can refresh them before next year’s holidays.
Q3: Can I make these centrepieces ahead of time?
Absolutely — they’ll keep for a few days in a cool, dry place before your event.
Q4: What’s the safest lighting option?
LED tealights are a great reusable choice, especially around children or pets.
Q5: How can I make my centrepiece smell festive?
Add a few drops of pine, orange or clove essential oil to your dried ingredients for a natural fragrance.