How to Make a Rustic Birch Bark Vase

I thought of making a rustic birch bark vase as we did a little spring cleanup in the yard. Over the winter, our stack of wood for the firepit had several logs where the bark had separated from the log. 

We removed the natural birch bark with a putty knife to help it pull away in the areas still glued with sap. But for the most part, the bark came off very easily, leaving us with several pieces similar in size

I used the cylinder vase (mine is only about 5″ high and about 5″ inches in diameter). A larger or taller vase would work, too. I always use what I have on hand and make it work.

It was very easy and quick to make this DIY birch vase. You only need a few supplies.

Supplies needed to make this easy birch bark vase:

• Bark from a birch tree in similar lengths (or you could cut to the size you need)
• Clean glass jar or cylinder vase (repurpose a jar, or use an affordable vase from any floral supply shop).
• Pruners or something to cut the bark if necessary
• Hot glue gun and glue sticks (I use a small, inexpensive one that I use for all craft projects)
• Twine (to cover the elastic bands if using)
• Elastic bands (to help hold the bark in place)
• Fresh flowers to fill your vase
• Note: The hot glue easily removes from glass, so making this rustic vase will not ruin your vase. It simply peels off the glass like it was never applied.

Easy steps to making this rustic decoration that you can use for any season

I’m making this in the spring, and of course, tulips with long stems would look amazing in this vase. Today, I used white lilac, but during the holidays, fresh cuttings, winter foliage, fir sprigs, and berries would all look amazing in a rustic birch vase.

1. Cut the birch pieces into similar lengths. They don’t have to be perfect. You will need a straight edge on one end for the bottom of the vase.
2. Lay out your pieces and ensure you have enough to cover the perimeter of your vase. 
3. Start arranging the pieces, and then, when you are ready, glue one piece at a time until the vase is mainly covered on the outside.
4. If the wood is very dry, you may want to soak it in warm water so it’s more pliable and doesn’t break as easily when working with the birch wood.
5. This is a quick project. Making your vase will take only a few minutes and a little clean-up time.
6. Fill with water and add flowers or branches.

Lilacs in a rustic birch wood vase decorating the corner banquette