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16 Stunning DIY Tree Log Ideas You’ll Want To Try This Weekend

16 Stunning DIY Tree Log Ideas You’ll Want To Try This Weekend

Rough around the edges, rich in charm—tree logs bring a natural, sculptural edge to any garden. These ideas go way beyond rustic. Think planters, borders, seating, even art.

No chainsaw epic required—just creativity, a little elbow grease, and maybe a stump or two worth saving.

1. Log Pathway Stepping Stones

© wood_work_master

Cross-cut sections from logs create natural stepping stones for garden paths. Simply slice a fallen tree trunk into 2-3 inch thick rounds and place them in your desired pathway pattern.

Sand the top surfaces lightly to prevent splinters, and consider adding a clear waterproof sealant to extend their lifespan. The varying wood grain patterns make each step unique.

For extra stability, dig shallow depressions in the soil where each log slice will sit, preventing wobbling when stepped on.

2. Hollow Log Planter

© mapleakershomestead

Got a hollow log section? Fill it with soil and transform it into a stunning natural planter! Rotted-out logs already have character and rustic appeal built right in.

Line the inside with landscaping fabric to help retain soil while allowing drainage. Choose plants that complement the woodland feel – ferns, hostas, and woodland flowers work beautifully against the bark texture.

Position your log planter in partial shade to protect both the wood and shade-loving plants from harsh sun.

3. Rustic Log Bench

© deni_dela

A split log with sturdy legs makes a perfect garden seat where you can pause and enjoy your outdoor space. Start with a halved log that’s at least 4 feet long and attach legs made from shorter log sections or purchased wooden posts.

Sand the seating surface smooth while leaving the bark intact on the sides for rustic charm. Add a coat of outdoor sealant to protect against weather damage.

Place your bench near flowering plants or under a tree for a peaceful spot to relax and watch butterflies.

4. Mushroom Log Garden Ornaments

© hauswoodworking

Create whimsical mushroom sculptures using log sections! Cut log pieces of varying heights (6-12 inches) and top them with rounded pieces of wood or even old wooden bowls turned upside down.

Paint them in bright colors like red with white spots for classic toadstool designs, or natural colors for a more subtle look. Seal everything with weatherproof varnish to protect your creations.

Group several mushroom sculptures of different sizes together under trees or among ferns for a magical fairy-tale effect in shady garden corners.

5. Log Slice Garden Edging

© Reddit

Define your garden beds with natural-looking borders made from vertical log slices. Cut logs into 4-6 inch thick rounds, then bury them halfway in the soil along flower bed edges.

Vary the heights slightly for a more organic, flowing appearance. The wood will weather beautifully over time, developing an attractive silver-gray patina that looks stunning against colorful plants.

For longer-lasting edging, choose naturally rot-resistant woods like cedar, cypress, or black locust if available.

6. Fairy Log House

© maryinthefairyland

Transform a log section into a magical fairy dwelling that will delight kids and adults alike! Hollow out part of a log or use one that’s naturally hollow, then add tiny doors and windows cut from thin wood or purchased from craft stores.

Create miniature pathways leading to the entrance using small pebbles or crushed shells. Add moss for the roof and tiny furniture made from twigs, acorns, and bark pieces.

Position your fairy log house near low-growing plants that can serve as a “fairy garden” surrounding the magical dwelling.

7. Bird Bath Log Base

© cardinalestateceramics

A sturdy log section makes a perfect natural pedestal for a bird bath! Select a flat-topped log about 2-3 feet tall and seal the top surface with outdoor waterproofing sealer.

Place a shallow ceramic dish, repurposed glass bowl, or concrete basin on top to hold water. Drill drainage holes in the log sides near the bottom to prevent water damage and rot.

Birds will appreciate the bathing spot, and you’ll enjoy watching them splash around from your garden seating area.

8. Log Slice Garden Art

© katfedora

Create stunning wall art for garden fences using log slices of various sizes. Cut assorted rounds from different trees to showcase various colors and grain patterns.

Arrange them in an interesting pattern – perhaps a flower shape or abstract design – then attach them to a backing board or directly to a fence. Add weatherproof paint accents if desired for extra visual impact.

The natural wood tones will complement your plants beautifully while adding texture and interest to blank garden walls.

9. Insect Hotel Log

© green.usek

Beneficial insects need homes too! Drill holes of various diameters (between 2-10mm) into a log section to create perfect nesting spots for solitary bees and other helpful garden insects.

Position the holes facing south or southeast in a sunny spot protected from rain. The different-sized tunnels will attract various species of pollinators that will help your garden thrive.

Add a small roof overhang using bark or wood slices to keep rain from directly entering the holes and damaging the insect habitats.

10. Stump Side Table

© rusticbydesignperth

Need outdoor table space? A flat-topped tree stump makes a charming, rustic side table for your garden seating area! Sand the top surface smooth while leaving the sides natural for contrast.

Apply several coats of outdoor polyurethane to protect the surface from drinks and weather. For extra stability, you can attach small feet to the bottom using dowels if the base isn’t perfectly flat.

Use your stump table to hold drinks, books, or potted plants while enjoying lazy afternoons in your garden.

11. Log Planter Trough

© lewfrench

Split logs can become beautiful planter troughs with minimal effort! Take a log at least 2 feet long and split it lengthwise. Hollow out the center using a chisel or power tools to create a trough shape.

Drill several drainage holes in the bottom, then line with landscape fabric before adding soil. Plant trailing flowers or herbs that will cascade over the edges for a lush, abundant look.

The natural wood container develops character as it ages, complementing the plants growing inside it.

12. Stacked Log Garden Sculpture

© claymohrlighting

Create an eye-catching vertical garden feature by stacking log sections of decreasing size. Start with a sturdy, wide base log and stack progressively smaller pieces, securing them together with hidden dowels or garden-safe adhesive.

Leave some sections extending outward at different angles for visual interest and to create planting pockets. Fill the gaps and pockets with soil and plant succulents or small perennials.

Your living sculpture combines wood textures with plant life for a truly unique garden focal point.

13. Log Slice Garden Path

© Reddit

For a more substantial pathway than stepping stones, create a full log slice path! Cut numerous 2-3 inch thick rounds from logs and place them tightly together like a wooden cobblestone path.

Set them slightly into the soil for stability and fill gaps between rounds with pea gravel or sand. The varying colors and grain patterns create a beautiful natural mosaic effect underfoot.

This showstopping path works beautifully leading to a garden feature like a bench or birdbath.

14. Log Candle Holders

© the__logs

Add magical evening lighting to your garden with log candle holders! Drill holes in log sections using hole saw bits sized to fit tea lights or votive candles.

For taller pillar candles, use a spade bit to create deeper recesses. Group several log candle holders of varying heights together on a patio table or along garden steps for a warm, inviting glow.

The combination of flickering candlelight and natural wood creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for summer evening gatherings.

15. Log Slice Garden Signs

© branchingoffstudio

Create charming garden markers or welcome signs using smooth log slices! Cut 1-inch thick rounds from branches or small logs, then sand one side smooth for writing.

Use wood-burning tools, outdoor paint, or permanent markers to add plant names, inspirational sayings, or directional information. Attach them to stakes or hang them from garden features using natural twine.

These personalized wooden signs add character while helping identify plants or marking special garden areas.

16. Log Border Garden Pond

© Reddit

Frame a small garden pond with log sections for a natural-looking water feature! Arrange curved log pieces around a pre-formed pond liner or dig a custom shape.

Position logs so they partially overhang the water’s edge, creating hiding spots for frogs and small wildlife. Plant moisture-loving plants between the logs to soften the edges and create a seamless transition to the surrounding garden.

The wood will develop an attractive weathered appearance over time while providing valuable habitat for garden creatures.