Learn how to make a simple winter centerpiece using a thrifted bowl, cedar garland, pinecones, and candles. This easy, cozy table centerpiece comes together with items you already have and is perfect for the quiet winter months after Christmas.
WINTER | Published January 12, 2026
WINTER | Published January 12, 2026
Once the Christmas decorations come down, the table can feel a little empty.
It’s too early for anything spring-like, but the sparkle and greenery are suddenly gone, and the room feels more bare than it should. That’s usually when I reach for something simple: nothing fussy, nothing expensive, just a few pieces that make the table feel finished again.
This winter centerpiece came together quickly one afternoon with things I already had on hand, a few pinecones gathered from outside, and one thrift store find from the morning that turned out to be the perfect starting point.
If you’re in that in-between stretch of winter and want something easy and cozy for your table, keep reading. I’ll show you exactly how to put this together using what you likely already have leftover in your Christmas décor.
PUTTING TOGETHER A QUICK WINTER CENTERPIECE FOR YOUR TABLE
Start with a Bowl that Can Hold Its Own
The base of this centerpiece is a large Italian bowl I picked up at Goodwill for just a few dollars. It’s bigger and deeper than what I would normally use on the table for serving, but that’s extra size is exactly why it works so well here.
If you don’t have a bowl like this, don’t overthink it. Any deep serving bowl, dough bowl, or even a shallow basket will do the same job. The goal is simply to choose something substantial enough that it feels intentional sitting right in the center of the table.
Create a Solid Base for the Candles
Deep bowls can be tricky when you want to add candles. If you set them straight into the bowl, they tend to sink down too far or wobble, which never looks quite right.
An easy solution is to place a flat plate or shallow bowl upside down inside the larger bowl. It creates a stable, level surface for the candles to sit on, and once everything is layered in, you’ll never see it.
Add Greenery
For the greenery, I used a flexible, real-feel cedar garland. Instead of stuffing it into the bowl, I loosely coiled it around the inside edge, letting it bend and spill naturally over the sides in a few places. You want it to feel relaxed, not crowded.
As you’re placing it, step back once or twice and see where it feels a little off and adjust as necessary.
(Although it isn't the one that is used here, this real-touch garland is my all-time favorite for decorating at Christmas and throughout the winter months. It would look beautiful used in this centerpiece if you are looking for a new garland.)
Tuck in Candles and Something Gathered
Once the garland was in place, I added three flameless candles to the center. I like using an odd number (it almost always looks more natural), and flameless candles keep things simple especially if this centerpiece is going to live on the table for a while.
Since I only had two candle heights, I boosted one of the taller ones by setting it on a small ramekin. This is one of those moments where using what you already have makes all the difference. There’s no need to buy anything special. Just work with what’s in your cabinets because you won't see it anyways.
(This is my favorite brand of faux candles because they look the most realistic when turned on.)
To finish things off, I tucked in pinecones gathered from outside. They add texture and help disguise the plate underneath the candles while keeping everything feeling natural and winter appropriate.
Pinecones are one of my favorite winter decorating tools. They’re free, easy to find, and they never feel out of place this time of year. Let them nestle into the greenery rather than sit right on top. That little detail makes the arrangement feel more complete.
Layer the Table Underneath
Before setting the centerpiece on the table, I layered a textured white runner with a plaid wool scarf on top. The runner keeps things light and neutral, and the scarf adds warmth, pattern, and a bit of softness.
Layering like this is an easy way to make a winter table feel cozy, even if the centerpiece itself is very simple. Scarves, throws, and table linens all work beautifully here, so use what you already have and don’t worry about it being perfect.
This was a combination I used first in a winter-themed tablescape with deer years ago and have always love the combination of the two opposing runners sitting on top of one another.
Make It Your Own
That’s really all there is to it. If you don’t have cedar, pine or eucalyptus work just as well. If candles aren’t your thing, the bowl would look beautiful filled only with greenery and gathered pieces. Add a few deer to extend the centerpiece.
The idea isn’t to copy this exactly, but to use it as a starting point. Winter decorating doesn’t need to be elaborate or expensive. Often, a few thoughtful layers and familiar pieces are all it takes to make the table feel welcoming again, especially during this quieter season, when simple feels just right.
More Winter Posts You'll Enjoy Reading
- How to Decorate After Christmasr - A Thoughtful Transition to Winter
- Easy Winter Wreath - Before you put away your Christmas greenery, check out this post about making a DIY wreath that uses what you already have for stunning seasonal decor.
- DIY Felt Snowflakes - Inspired by the art of paper quilling, these felt snowflakes are a fast and easy craft to make on cold winter days.
- Rustic Woodland Tablescape - A pretty table isn't just for Christmas entertaining.
- How to Keep Snowy Boots From Melting All Over Your Floors
