Overview:
This project will show you how to build a christmas tree stand. There's nothing festive about a toppled tree. This stand will accommodate very large or small trees.
Materials:
nails, eyelet screws, 2 pieces of 2”x4” boards (each 2 feet long), 1/8" thick nylon cord
Tools You'll Need:
power-lite cordless drill or 6-in-1 interchangeable screwdriver, 7oz. or 16oz. hammer, utility knife or scissors
Before You Begin:
Ask your hardware store or home center to cut a 3/4" notch in each board in the middle (called a "lap joint") so you can fit them together by interlocking the notches to form an "x." Both boards should lie flush to the ground when notched together.
Barbara's Tips:
Before placing the tree in the water pan, cut about 1/2' off the bottom of the trunk. A fresh tree can use a quart of water or more per day. Make sure to keep your tree well hydrated so it doesn't dry out.
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Step 1: X Marks the Spot
Place one board on top of the other, interlocking the notches to form an "x". Use your electric drill to make shallow pilot holes for four screws in the center of the "x" and fasten the boards together with the screws.
Step 2: Automatic Waterer
Place the galvanized-steel oil change pan in the center of the "x" and mark the outer edges on each arm of the "x." Hammer a nail in at each mark. These nails will hold the water reservoir pan in place. Install an eyelet screw about 1/2" inch from the end of each arm of the "x".
Step 3: Wrapped Up and Tied with a Bow
Slip the water reservoir pan into place and set the tree in the center. You'll need someone to help hold the tree upright as you secure it in place. Take the nylon cord and cut it into four equal lengths. Run the cord through the eyelet and up and around the trunk at a height of about 1 1/2 to 2 feet. Wrap the cord over a branch or a stub on the side opposite the eye screw. Bring the cord back around and secure it with a slipknot or tent guy-rope tighteners. Repeat for each eye screw. When all four cords are tightened the tree will stand upright and secure.
Now go ahead and deck the halls! You did it yourself!
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