It may seem like it’s a little early in the season to be talking Christmas, but every year I find myself scrambling at the last minute to finish my holiday projects and wishing that I had started sooner. If you’re looking to get a head start this year, here is a good jumping-off point: an easy Christmas tree from Lowes Creative Ideas made using stacked sandpaper! I love how simple and elegant the project is, and its neutral color and interesting texture make it fit into many different decor styles. Or if you prefer brighter colors in your holiday decorating scheme, you could even try spray painting the sandpaper to get a different look! [how to make a sandpaper square Christmas tree]

Project estimate:

• Plant saucer, $1 and up
• Dowel, on hand or $1
• Sandpaper, $1 and up
• Cardboard, on hand
• Glue, on hand
• Wooden finial, about $1

Total: about $3 and up