As per a lot of renters, celebrating the holiday without a Christmas tree is not the same. However, be aware that bringing a fresh-cut tree or even a large imitation tree into your Leander home can be an expensive bother – or sometimes even worse.
As said by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Christmas trees are responsible for causing an average of 170 residential fires every year, causing an average of 15 injuries, 4 deaths, and $12 million in property damage. Figures like these exemplify just how dangerous Christmas trees can be, and may motivate you and your landlord to search for creative alternatives.
Safety aside, the willingness to go for a low-cost, low-hassle alternative to the traditional Christmas tree just may allow you the chance to get your artistic side to shine. A substitute Christmas tree can be constructed out of just about any material you can think of, giving you a creative new take on the traditional tree.
For instance, if you have an open wall in your living room or somewhere that is suitable, you could create a “tree” out of crepe paper or washi tape, adding ornaments that you can attach directly to the wall. For the more daring, consider making a tree out of post-it notes, using different colored notes to create the effect of green branches and colorful ornaments. You could also draw or paint a tree outline on a large canvas or chalkboard, allowing your artistic side to shine through. By using removable tape or other materials, you can easily create an affordable “tree” on your wall that can then be quickly removed.
For renters looking for a more 3-dimensional option, dwell on what you can make with a wooden ladder, a stack of books, or several large pieces of cardboard. Ever realize how a freestanding ladder looks like a triangle from the side? Wrap a string of lights around it and add a few decorative touches, and you have created a “Christmas tree” that you can use for home maintenance tasks the entire rest of the year.
For the book lover, consider creating a “tree” on a small table by creatively stacking some books. You can then add ornaments on top to furnish it with the true holiday feel. You can even attempt crafting a multi-sided “tree” out of large pieces of cardboard inserted through each other. This freestanding tree stand-in can then be painted or ornamented to boost its look and feel or whatever you want it to be.
Further creative options to try to include twine and twigs. It is not that difficult to create a “tree” shape by wrapping an upside-down cone, tomato cage, or other items with twine, felt, or decorative ribbon. These works of art can then be displayed wherever you have space to show off your handiwork. For a more rustic approach, consider trying different lengths of twigs together to create a tree-shaped twig ladder that can be suspended in a window or installed on a wall.
Creative and low-cost, every one of these options might just be your new go-to Christmas decoration. But if you do have inquiries about what decorations your landlord will allow, it is important to communicate early and frequently with your landlord or Leander property manager. In the end, they are your best guide to a safe and hassle-free holiday season. For more information about how the team at Real Property Management Advisors can help, contact us online or call us at 512-777-2597.
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