fesTive foresT Workshop

Layered wooden trees in soft green and blue with optional decorative accents

I see the beauty in both
the forest and each tree

The workshop offers a calm, reflective space for small groups to explore simple handcrafting techniques while engaging with a mindful approach to the holiday season. It is suitable as either a single session, focusing on painting and basic decoration, or as a double session, allowing additional time for sanding, layering, and further personalisation. The workshop works well in community centres, schools, libraries, or quiet studio spaces, and accommodates a wide range of participants, including those seeking a gentle, focused activity that allows time for reflection and subtle personal expression. The session encourages noticing detail and presence rather than rushing, creating space for a more measured and enjoyable experience.

A moment in the forest

The central theme invites participants to consider presence and attention, focusing on noticing individual elements within a larger scene. A short guided meditation helps centre the mind, followed by prompts for journaling, allowing reflection on thoughts, feelings, or sensory impressions. Participants may be encouraged to consider small, immediate details rather than overarching plans, gently linking this awareness to the pace of the session. Optional brief sharing can deepen this reflective element.

Materials and method

Each participant works with pre-cut pallet wood trees, paint brushes, cups of water, paint mixing trays, and pencils. Acrylic paints in greens and blues form the base palette, with extra brushes and small decorative items available for personalising each piece. Techniques explored include sanding, layering paint, and adding finishing details. Step-by-step guidance ensures participants of all experience levels can follow the process, while the open-ended approach allows personal interpretation and embellishment.

What they take away

By the end of the workshop, each participant has created three individually decorated wooden trees. The pieces carry a sense of individuality, reflecting the participant’s choices in colour, texture, and adornment. Beyond the tangible outcome, the activity provides a gentle reminder of focus and presence, encouraging participants to carry a sense of calm attention into the broader rhythm of the holiday season.