How to attach branches to Christmas tree?

[ddiluted1]

Wooden Xmas tree

We obtained a custom made Xmas tree that uses various red gum branches.  Each of these branches are attached via screws to each other and the main trunk.  Whilst this worked for this year as its wood we don't expect the screws will hold up year after year.  We're looking for advice on what type of bracket may be useful for this purpose?  Our alternative is to consider square lashing and relive our time in Scouting.

Does anyone have any suggestions on what type of bracket/s we could use that don't involve repeatedly screwing into the wood?

[MitchellMc]

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community @ddiluted1. It's terrific to have you join us, and many thanks for your question about securing branches to a Christmas tree.

I can't think of any specific bracket that could be used in this circumstance. You could potentially glue the connection with PVA glue, which would provide additional support. However, I think lashing either with cordage or wire would be the most robust solution. If you were to use some gold-coloured wire, then it would likely work well and keep with the aesthetic.

Let me tag @prettyliving and @Renowayoflife to see if they have any thoughts.

Please let me know if you have any questions.

Mitchell
 

[ddiluted1]

Hi Mitchell,

Thanks for the suggestion.  We are wanting pack the tree up for storing so the branches realistically need to be detached hence not wanting to try the glueing option.  Is there any bracket that could replicate a rope or wire lashing: I have an idea in my head but not sure if it is commercially available.

Regards,

Dee

[Noyade]

Hi @ddiluted1 

Has the 'artist' screwed the rounds together, with no sanding?

[Noyade]

"relive our time in Scouting"

I call this the 'Daniel Boone Cabin Technique.'

I propose sanding the rounds so that we have two flat surfaces. This will be trial and error for best fit. It's very hot outside so I didn't bother to be precise but you get what I mean...

[Noyade]

Drill through one side and not through the other...

Then drill out for the fastener.

[Noyade]

[Noyade]

Number/letter each join.

[Noyade]

Together at last.

[Noyade · Accepted solution]

Then deconstruct and pack away ready for Christmas. 😁

Laborious process, but worthwhile in the end.

I'll be immensely strong.

Hang anything on it.

And you can adjust the branch angles - slightly.

Just a hot afternoon thought/tinker.

Cheers.