DIY Log Reindeer: A Festive & Easy Christmas Craft

Updated at: 24/05/2025

Christmas is a time for heartwarming decorations and joyful crafting, and this year, why not add a touch of rustic charm to your festive displays with adorable DIY log reindeer? These charming creatures are surprisingly easy to make, requiring only a few simple materials and a little bit of creativity. Forget expensive store-bought decorations – let's embrace the cozy spirit of the season with a project that's both fun and rewarding for the whole family. Imagine these delightful reindeer nestled amongst your twinkling lights and fragrant pine boughs, bringing a unique, handcrafted touch to your holiday scene.

This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of creating your own set of whimsical log reindeer, from gathering the necessary supplies to adding the finishing touches. With clear instructions and helpful images, you'll be crafting your own festive herd in no time, ready to spread holiday cheer throughout your home. Prepare to be amazed at how easily these rustic beauties come together – let the crafting begin!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Logs (various sizes)
  • Drill with Forstner bit (35mm or matching leg thickness)
  • Construction adhesive
  • Googly eyes
  • Super glue
  • Red pom-pom
Safety Guidelines
  • Always supervise children when handling tools like saws and knives. Logs can be heavy and sharp edges are a risk.
  • Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from wood splinters or flying debris when sawing or sanding.
  • Ensure the logs are properly dried and free from rot or insect infestation before working with them to prevent splintering or structural weakness.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Gather Materials

    • a large one for the body, a smaller one for the head, and several smaller ones for the legs and antlers.
    Source logs of varying sizes: a large one for the body, a smaller one for the head, and several smaller ones for the legs and antlers.
    Gather Materials

  2. Prepare Logs

    • Cut the logs to the desired size for the body, head, legs, and antlers.
    Cut the logs to the desired size for the body, head, legs, and antlers.
    Prepare Logs

  3. Drill Holes for Legs and Neck

    • Drill holes in the underside of the body log for the legs, using a drill bit that matches (or is slightly larger than) the leg thickness.
    • Drill a hole in the front of the body log for the neck.
    Drill a hole in the front of the body log for the neck.Drill a hole in the front of the body log for the neck.
    Drill Holes for Legs and Neck

  4. Attach Legs

    • Apply construction adhesive to the legs and insert them into the pre-drilled holes in the body.
    Apply construction adhesive to the legs and insert them into the pre-drilled holes in the body.
    Attach Legs

  5. Attach Head

    • Glue the neck piece to the head log.
    • Glue the head (with the neck attached) to the body.
    Glue the head (with the neck attached) to the body.Glue the head (with the neck attached) to the body.
    Attach Head

  6. Add Facial Features

    • Attach googly eyes using super glue.
    • Attach a red pom-pom to the nose.
    Attach a red pom-pom to the nose.
    Add Facial Features

  7. Attach Antlers (Optional)

    • Attach antlers (if using) with construction adhesive.

Read more: Crafting a Biodegradable Woodsman's Whistle: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • Always ask permission before taking logs from someone else's property, even if they appear to be discarded.
  • Construction adhesive works well both indoors and outdoors, even with damp wood.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Uneven Log Base

Reason: Using logs of inconsistent size or shape creates a wobbly reindeer.
Solution: Select logs of similar size and shape, or use shims to level the base.

2. Weak Attachment of Antlers/Features

Reason: Using glue alone on smooth logs or insufficient glue may cause antlers or other features to fall off.
Solution: Use strong adhesive designed for wood and reinforce with small nails or screws where necessary.

3. Poor Paint Application

Reason: Applying paint too thickly or unevenly will lead to a less professional finish and longer drying time.
Solution: Apply thin, even coats of paint, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

FAQs

What kind of logs are best for making log reindeer?
Small, relatively smooth logs are ideal. Branches about 4-6 inches long and 2-3 inches in diameter work well. Look for logs that are sturdy enough to hold the antlers and other decorations but not so heavy that they are difficult to handle.
What if I don't have access to real logs? Can I use alternatives?
Yes! You can use craft wood pieces, dowels, or even sturdy branches from a tree in your yard, provided they're properly cleaned and dried. Consider using wood that is already sanded smooth to avoid splinters. You can even paint them to look like logs for a similar rustic effect.