14 DIY Christmas Tiered Tray Decor Ideas

A tiered tray is one of the easiest and most charming ways to add festive cheer to your home. Whether you place it on your kitchen counter, coffee table, or entryway, it instantly becomes a centerpiece that spreads Christmas joy.

 Here are 14 DIY Christmas tiered tray decor ideas to inspire your holiday decorating this season — each one easy, beautiful, and full of personality.

1. Classic Red and Green Tray

Nothing says Christmas like the classic combination of red and green. Fill your tray with mini Santa figurines, small wrapped gifts, pine branches, and red ornaments. A plaid napkin or ribbon tied around the tray adds a traditional, homey touch.

To make it pop, add a few sparkly baubles and tiny fairy lights. Balance the bold colors with a white mug or neutral backdrop so the red and green really shine.

2. Rustic Farmhouse Christmas Tray

Create a warm farmhouse look with wooden accents, buffalo plaid, and touches of greenery. Use small wooden signs with words like “Joy” or “Merry,” paired with mini galvanized buckets holding faux pine sprigs.

Add texture with a knitted ornament or burlap ribbon. A small candle or mason jar filled with candy canes adds that cozy, country Christmas vibe everyone loves.

3. Hot Cocoa Bar Tray

Turn your tiered tray into a mini hot chocolate station. Add mugs, marshmallows, cocoa packets, and candy canes in small containers. A tiny chalkboard sign saying “Hot Cocoa Served Here” completes the setup.

To make it even more inviting, include a few festive napkins and straws. It’s perfect for both display and function — guests will love helping themselves to a warm treat.

4. White Winter Wonderland Tray

Keep things light and elegant with an all-white and silver theme. Think white ceramic houses, silver ornaments, and faux snow sprinkled across the trays.

Use small candles or frosted pinecones for sparkle. This look feels calm, modern, and adds a magical snowy touch to your kitchen or dining area.

5. Candy Cane Corner Tray

If you love peppermint everything, dedicate your tray to candy canes! Mix striped red-and-white mugs, peppermint candies, and candy cane ornaments. A little jar filled with mini marshmallows ties it all together.

Add pops of green or white to balance the red. This cheerful display looks adorable near your coffee machine or dessert table.

6. Gingerbread House Tray

Celebrate the sweetness of the season with a gingerbread-themed tray. Add small gingerbread houses, cookie ornaments, and cinnamon sticks. A mini rolling pin or whisk gives it a cute kitchen flair.

Layer in some faux icing details or small white accents to resemble frosting. This idea works beautifully in the kitchen for a festive, homey touch.

7. Minimalist Neutral Tray

For a modern and calming display, go neutral. Use beige, white, and soft green tones with simple ceramic trees or mini houses. A small candle adds warmth and glow.

Keep decorations minimal and well-balanced. This style fits perfectly into any decor theme, adding just enough Christmas charm without clutter.

8. Grinch-Inspired Tray

Go playful with a fun green-and-red Grinch theme. Add a few cartoonish ornaments, bright green bottlebrush trees, and a mini “Naughty or Nice” sign.

Include a mug with a Grinch face or quote for personality. It’s a great conversation starter and perfect for families with kids who love whimsical decor.

9. Vintage Christmas Tray

Add a nostalgic twist with old-fashioned ornaments, wooden nutcrackers, and antique-style bells. Soft gold and faded red tones make this setup feel timeless.

Pair with lace doilies or plaid napkins for texture. Vintage trays look best with items that tell a story — like heirloom ornaments or handmade crafts.

10. Cozy Cabin Tray

Create a mini mountain getaway on your tray with faux pine trees, pinecones, and flannel patterns. A tiny lantern or rustic candle holder adds that cabin feel.

Mix in warm, earthy colors — brown, green, and deep red. This look brings natural, wintery comfort to your living space.

11. Santa’s Workshop Tray

Fill your tray with mini toy decorations, elves, and bright red details. Add a “Santa’s Workshop” sign, mini gifts, and a sprinkle of faux snow.

To enhance the theme, use metallic gold touches or tiny tools to make it look like Santa’s workspace. It’s fun, colorful, and full of holiday spirit.

12. Nativity-Inspired Tray

For a more meaningful setup, design your tray around the nativity story. Include small figurines of Mary, Joseph, and baby Jesus, surrounded by stars and candles.

Use natural textures like straw, wood, and linen to add warmth. This thoughtful display brings faith and tradition into your decor beautifully.

13. Frosted Greenery Tray

Mix greenery, frosted pinecones, and white berries for a simple but elegant Christmas display. Add a candle in the center for glow and balance.

Spray a light dusting of fake snow for that frosty effect. This style looks fresh and natural — perfect for those who prefer a subtle festive look.

14. Whimsical Elf Tray

Bring some fun to your decor with a mischievous elf-themed tray. Add mini elf figurines, colorful ornaments, and playful signs like “Elf Surveillance.”

Scatter small gifts and candy pieces for a lively touch. This cheerful tray adds personality and makes your home feel full of joy and laughter.

Make Your Tray the Star of the Season

Tiered trays may be small, but they can hold endless creativity. Mix and match these ideas, change colors to match your theme, and add your personal touch. Whether you love cozy farmhouse vibes or bold Christmas sparkle, your DIY tray will spread festive joy all season long.