How to make Mini Log Reindeer

Mini log reindeer are an adorable addition to your holiday decor, blending rustic charm with a festive flair. These tiny creations can be used as table centrepieces, mantel decorations, or even tree ornaments. Best of all, they’re simple to make and allow for plenty of diy creative customization.

Our Tree Trimming:

It was by chance that we needed to cut back some of our birch trees (as you may know by the new Skinny Trees) Well, more ideas kept hatching so I gave my Rustic Gnomes some of their own reindeer. They are a perfect compliment to my nature inspired rustic Christmas decor! No need to go to the store!

Materials You’ll Need

To get started, gather the following materials:

• Logs or branches: Different diameters for the body, head, and legs.
• Wooden dowels or twigs: For the antlers and connecting pieces.
• Garden Trimmer: to cut small branches
• Saw: For cutting the larger branches to size. (mini chainsaw or handsaw)
• Drill and drill bit: For creating holes to assemble the parts.
• Hot glue gun/wood glue: To secure parts together.
• Sandpaper: For smoothing edges if needed.
• Exacto Knife; to carve edges.
• Decorations: faux wreaths or bells.

Step-by-Step Instructions (see full assembly in video)

1. Prepare the Logs

• Body: Cut a medium-sized log (about 3-5 inches long) for the body.
• Head: Use a smaller piece of wood, angled slightly at the cut to give the reindeer a natural head position.
• Legs: Cut four thin, equal-length branches (about 4-5 inches) for the legs.
• Antlers: Choose thin, branching twigs for a realistic antler look.

2. Drill and Assemble

• Drill holes in the body log for the legs and neck.
• Insert and secure the leg branches into the body with hot glue.
• Drill another hole for the neck and attach the head piece.

3. Add the Antlers

• Drill small holes at the top of the head for the antlers.
• Insert the twig antlers into the holes and secure them with glue

4. Add Ears/Tails and Customize

• Smooth rough edges with sandpaper.
• Add a red nose, or small decorations like wreaths and bells for a festive touch.
• Glue Disks of branches (dollar store supplies) for ears & tails
• Leave the wood natural for a rustic look.

No Need for Perfection to make Mini Log Reindeer:

Do not worry about proportions so much! As long as they have 4 legs and a head we understand what they can be! The cute antlers give it away that they are deer. I love that we do not need eyes or noses, as suggestion is better than being fussy.

The rustic whittled edges add more nature inspired charm. The Birch Gnomes have lasted well with no special preparation.

Make a few Log Reindeer:

Once you get started it’s easy to make a bunch of these wooden reindeer. I’m pretty sure you can source the supplies for free. You might even add a red pompom for Rudolph.

These may have a few more steps than the Birch Santas but are so worth it! With all the craziness of buying during the holidays I enjoy a simple free project; one that reminds me of peaceful nature and not commercialism.

Thank you for joining in my creative journey & wishing you the best in whatever way you celebrate!