Every year has its own holiday look, but the 2025 Christmas trends have one thing in common — nature is back. Pinecones are popping up in everything from neutral Nordic to peppermint glam, and the best part? They’re easy, affordable, and endlessly adaptable.
Whether you pick them up on a walk or grab a bag from the craft store, these four easy updates turn ordinary pinecones into standout pieces for your tree, table, or garland. (Check out this blogpost to see how easy it is to prepare the pinecones for a glam-up!)
1. Gilded Tips for Instant Elegance
A touch of metallic paint (gold, silver, or bronze) brushed just on the edges creates a subtle shimmer that catches the light.
Where it shines: Merry & Metal or traditional luxe themes.
How to do it: Use a small brush or your fingertip to apply Rub ’n Buff or metallic acrylics to the tips only.
2. Flocked & Frosted
Soft, snowy pinecones add that cozy “just dusted” look that feels straight out of a winter window display.
Where it shines: Naturally Noel, Scandinavian, woodsy, or classic red-and-white styles.
How to do it: Lightly spray with faux-snow spray or brush on a mix of white paint and baking soda for texture. I used drywall compound because I had it on hand and brushed a bit of white paint over the top. (Use what you have!)
3. Pastel Painted for a Modern Twist
Don’t skip color! Soft blush, sage, or icy blue tones turn rustic pinecones into something unexpectedly chic.
Where it shines: Palm Beach Regency, pastel peppermint, or soft modern holiday palettes.
How to do it: Dip the cones halfway or paint fully for statement bowl fillers or tree ornaments. I used spray paint that I had on hand.
Glittered & Glowing
When in doubt, sparkle it out. A touch of fine glitter makes every style feel finished and festive. Sparkle is ALWAYS a good answer for these!
Where it shines: Glam, peppermint, Joyeux Pastel or party-ready themes.
How to do it: Spray with spray adhesive, sprinkle fine glitter, and let dry completely. I applied a coat of varnish to hold the glitter in place. Layer with fairy lights for extra glow.
Styling Ideas
Tuck a few into your tree for a natural filler.
Cluster them in a bowl with greenery for an instant centerpiece.
String them on twine for an easy garland.
Mix different finishes for depth and dimension.
Sometimes the prettiest updates start with what nature gives you. Pinecones are timeless, but how you finish them makes them your own. Gilded, glittered, flocked, or painted — every version brings a little more magic to the season.
