According to 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. Statistics like these illuminate just how dangerous Christmas trees can be, and may inspire you and your landlord to search for creative alternatives.
Safety aside, choosing to go for a low-cost, low-hassle alternative to the traditional Christmas tree may allow you to get those creative juices running. 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 a convenient area in your wall in your living room or other suitable location, you could create a “tree” out of crepe paper or washi tape, adding ornaments that you can attach directly to the wall. For the bolder ones, reconsider making a tree out of post-it notes, using different colored notes to create the effect of green branches and colorful ornaments. You could likewise draw or paint a tree outline on a large canvas or chalkboard, allowing your creative 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, consider what you can manage with a wooden ladder, a stack of books, or several large pieces of cardboard. Ever notice how a freestanding ladder resembles 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 utilize 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 supply it with a true holiday feel. Or you can consider 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 give it just the appearance and feel that you want.
Some more creative options to consider include twine and twigs. It is easy to create a “tree” shape by wrapping an upside-down cone, tomato cage, or other items with twine, felt, or decorative ribbon. These gorgeous works can then be presented wherever you have space to show off your artistry. For a more rustic approach, consider trying different lengths of twigs together to create a tree-shaped twig ladder that can be fixed in a window or installed on a wall.
Artistic and low-cost, each of these choices might be your new go-to Christmas decoration. But if you do have difficulties with what decorations your landlord will allow, it is necessary to talk early and often with your landlord or Fort Myers 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 Rental Direction can help, contact us online or call us at 239-240-8111.