How to MacGyver a Christmas Tree
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"What do you think about icicle lights wired to look like branches?" he asked, trying to describe his mental blueprint. "It might end up looking like a neon agave plant, but we could still fit gifts around the sides."
See, it has become holiday tradition around here to put up a homemade tree. We opt against cutting a live one, which gives Rufus the opportunity to be resourceful and creative. Part artist, part engineer, he totally digs this annual project.
Every year's a different surprise — All made with the tools of MacGyver. Last year's was quasi-inspired by the Luxor, the hotel with a famous spotlight seen from space... and our patio. But you don't have to have that pyramid in your back yard to put a "tree" like this in your home.
Here's one way to MacGyver Christmas...
Supplies Needed:
**You may need to buy a washing machine to get your hands on a box the right size. |
1. Before you begin, make sure your construction supervisor is apprised of your plans. Elvis here reluctantly approves. |
2. Start auditioning talent for the role of Sphinx. Jackpot usually does not mind being a Vegas cat. In this case, he thinks it stinx. |
 3. Use your Swiss Army Knife to fashion the cardboard into a pyramid, and the duct tape to hold it together. MacGyvering a Christmas tree is serious business, so please do not let the expression of joy show on your face. |
 4. Next, wrap that sucker like the gift it is, and then line it bottom to top with old-school casino lights. Zip tie every two rows together at the corners to hold it all in place. |
5. Add Christmas bows and hit the switch. Viola! You've got yourself an environmentally friendly, casino-inspired, one-of-a-kind MacGyvered Christmas tree / sci-fi movie set. |
I know you probably have your own traditions, so this informative how-to might just be plain silly. It's the spirit of the season that's important, of course. No matter how you decorate, have fun.
Posted by TheWordWire at 12/2/2009 9:52 PM 
Categories: Vegas Baby,Life Skills,Observing Holidays
Tags: Christmas
Categories: Vegas Baby,Life Skills,Observing Holidays
Tags: Christmas
As always, you're full of wonderfully wacky ideas, Wordy! I love the Luxor tree - although I might've thought it was a nod to the Coneheads if you hadn't told me otherwise. ;-)
P.S. Your kitties are adorable!
P.P.S. With all our moving around, we don't do Christmas trees often. When we did, though, we never bought a live one. No way! It was always this little four-foot jobby we'd drag out of a closet. With ornaments that kitties couldn't break, if you know what I mean.
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The Coneheads! If only. I do not come from France.
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It's nice, but... really... you probably can't see it from space.
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No. You couldn't even see it from the neighbor's place, unlucky them.
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That tree looks AMAZING! I currently only have the smallest little rosemary bush trimmed to look like a tree sitting on my kitchen counter. Two sad green and red candles sit in front to make up our three piece Christmas festival...
I'm feeling inspired
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I'm sure your rosemary bush is very festive. Happy decorating -- thanks for stopping by!
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The bows look sort of like they're going to carry it away. Awesome. We haven't decorated yet. Thx for the tips.
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You're right -- it does look a little like it's been attacked by killer butterflies. Thanks for your comment -- happy decorating!
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