If you’ve noticed pinecones popping up in 2025’s Christmas trend forecasts, you’re not alone. They’re showing up gilded, glittered, and flocked — and the best part? You can collect them for free, right now.
Before you start decorating, here’s the simple way I prepare pinecones so they’re clean, pest-free, and ready to last all season.
Step 1: Gather
Take a walk in your yard, a park, or a wooded trail and gather pinecones in different sizes. Look for cones that are fully opened and free from heavy damage.
Step 2: Inspect & Shake
Gently shake each pinecone outdoors to remove loose dirt, leaves, or tiny critters. This keeps your work area cleaner later.
Step 3: Bake
This is the step that ensures your pinecones are safe to use indoors:
Preheat oven to 200°F (93°C).
Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or foil.
Place pinecones in a single layer.
Bake for 15 minutes.
This heat kills any insects or mold spores hiding inside, and it helps dry out the sap so they won’t be sticky.
Step 4: Cool Completely
Let pinecones cool completely before handling or decorating. This helps them keep their shape and prevents warping.
Step 5: Decorate
Once prepped, you can:
Brush with glue and sprinkle with glitter.
Lightly spray with gold or silver paint.
Add faux snow or flocking spray.
