Rustic Christmas Table Ideas

Season’s greetings, friends! I am back in the dining room, this time playing around with rustic Christmas table ideas! And I am having SO much fun.

If you love to put together outfits or decorate a room, don’t leave your table decor to the last minute, right before your guests arrive. (Like I usually do!) 😂

You will enjoy the process so much more if you get a headstart on it. Treat it like a holiday gift you are giving yourself.

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Christmas Table Ideas

To get started, it’s probably best to pick a theme. This will be dictated by what you already have unless you are starting over.

Do you lean towards the fancy and elegant or the casual and rustic?

The good news, I have inspiration for both! Here are ideas for elegant table decor and another rustic table decor post.

In today’s post, I am focusing on rustic table-setting ideas.

This is usually how I roll.😁 I have always been drawn to the less-than-perfect, rustic, and flawed.

Let’s explore what rustic means and learn how to make it work in your home and on your table.

If you prefer fancier tablescapes, stay tuned for my Elegant Christmas Table Ideas next week!

What is Rustic Style?

Rustic decor is relaxed with a rugged aesthetic that celebrates natural beauty.

The style typically incorporates natural pieces that have warmth and charm. It exudes a feeling of welcome, comfort, and approachability.

Rustic, by definition, is the opposite of elegant, sophisticated, or pretentious.

Table Decoration Ideas

Below are the five rustic Christmas table settings I put together. I hope they inspire you with ideas you can use in your decorating adventures.

All of the place settings incorporate rustic qualities. Here are some of the signature traits of the rustic style.

Rustic Table Decor

Many hallmarks of a rustic table style lie in the materials themselves.

Natural Materials

Most rustic elements come from the outdoors or are created from organic materials.

This might include unfinished wood, straw, stone, bark, or pinecones.

Consider burlap, jute, nubby wools and yarns, or cotton canvas for fabrics.

Imperfect Appearance

Beyond the materials are their intrinsic qualities. Rustic materials are not perfect; instead, we love their imperfections.

They are typically a little beat up and weathered. Look for pieces with character, age, and a story.

Wood may have pronounced grain, a live edge, or knots.

Metal with scratches or rust spots perfectly fits the rustic look.

Look for paint that is faded, distressed, or peeling.

Natural fabrics with frayed edges or wrinkles possess more appeal and character.

You don’t need to overdo it. It’s about combining various textures that create a comfortable and inviting table.

Shades of Nature Color Palette

The shades of a rustic palette are what you might find in nature.

Rich hues, muted tones, or neutral colors like white, beige, gray, or brown coordinate well.

Bright or bold colors won’t work well with a rough-and-tumble palette.

Where to Find Table Decor

First off, It does not have to cost a lot. You’ll probably find everything you need and more right under your nose.

If you do need more items, open up your cupboards, forage in your backyard, dig in that storage container, borrow from a friend, or run to the thrift store, dollar store, or discount retailer to find what you are missing.

It’s easy to find rustic pieces. Most items on this page are from my own collection, Goodwill, At Home stores, HomeGoods, or Kirkland’s.

If you have questions about a certain piece, just leave a comment below or message me here.

Below are my favorite places to find great pieces at great prices:

Thrift Stores
Dollar Stores
At Home Stores
HomeGoods
Kirkland’s
TJ Maxx

If you are looking for more rustic or farmhouse pieces, check out these retailers below:

Target
Anthropologie
Pottery Barn
World Market
Etsy

Rustic table decor is an easy style to create. Look for natural pieces, soft hues, and materials that are inviting to you. Enjoy the process of creating a look you can share and enjoy with your loved ones.

Enjoy!
xo,
Cindy

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