DIY Christmas Tree Scent Sticks: Make a Faux Tree Smell Real
sharing is caring!
Make your artificial Christmas tree smell like the real thing with these DIY Christmas tree scent sticks using cinnamon sticks and essential oil.

If there’s one thing I miss about a real Christmas tree in our home for the holiday season, it’s the freshly cut pine scent.
There’s something so wonderful about that crisp, woodsy aroma filling the air.
But as much as I love the scent, the convenience of a fake Christmas tree is hard to beat.
With a faux tree I’m not stressing about all of the fallen pine needles on the floor, I don’t have to remember to keep it watered, and it looks perfect from the beginning of December all the way to the end.
Last year, I hung Scentsicles (Have you seen these?) in our tree to try and replicate that freshly cut Christmas tree scent.
While they did work well at first, over time, the scent started to fade, and I found myself wanting something made with all-natural ingredients instead.
That’s when I decided to create my own DIY scent sticks using just two things…cinnamon sticks and essential oil.
They are quick, super easy to make, and give your artificial tree the authentic fragrance of the holidays that you know and love!
Why These Christmas Tree Scent Sticks are Perfect for Your Artificial Tree
The combination of cinnamon and pine brings together spicy, woodsy notes that scream, “Merry Christmas!”
Cinnamon sticks add a cozy, rustic look to the tree among the sparkling ornaments and twinkling lights.
And because they’re easy to make and budget-friendly too, these DIY scent sticks make a great addition to any holiday décor.

What makes Christmas trees smell?
Christmas trees fragrance is from the essential oils found in their needles, bark, and wood. These oils are responsible for the fresh, woodsy aroma we associate with the holiday season. When a tree is cut, it continues to release these essential oils, and the scent can become more pronounced as it dries.
What you’ll love about this DIY:
Supplies You’ll Need to Make DIY Essential Oil Scent Sticks
To create these festive scent sticks, you’ll need just a couple simple materials…
SUPPLIES YOU’LL NEED
*If you make a purchase using one of these links, I may receive a small commission. This does not add any cost to you, but helps me to continue to create & share meaningful content. Thank you for supporting my small business!
How to Make DIY Scentsicles
Here’s how to create your very own DIY Christmas tree scentsicles to add that freshly cut pine aroma to your artificial Christmas tree…
ELEANOR ROSE HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Christmas Decor, DIY’s, Recipes, & More!
Find everything you need for the most wonderful time of the year.
One. Add Essential Oil to Cinnamon Sticks
Start by placing a few drops of pine essential oil onto each cinnamon stick.
You can adjust the amount depending on how strong you’d like the scent to be.
A 5-6 drops per stick should do the trick (a little goes along way), but feel free to experiment to find the perfect balance for your home.
Two. Allow the Oil to Absorb
Once you’ve applied the oil, let the sticks sit for a few minutes to absorb the oil fully.
This helps the scent last longer, allowing it to diffuse gradually into your space.

Download Our Free Cozy Magazine
Three. Tuck or Attach the Scent Sticks Into Your Christmas Tree
To attach the scent sticks to your tree, you have two options:
- Tucking Method: Simply nestle the sticks deeper into the tree branches where they’ll be out of sight (this is the method I used).
- Tying Method: For a more secure placement, use florist wire to gently tie each cinnamon stick to the inner branches of your tree. Twist the wire around the cinnamon stick and then secure it to a sturdy branch.



Tips
- Every couple of weeks or so, add another drop or two of essential oil to the cinnamon sticks to keep the scent fresh throughout the season.
- While pine is classic, you can create your own signature holiday essential oil blend by adding a drop of clove, cedar, or even a hint of sweet orange for a festive twist.
- Spread the scent sticks evenly throughout the tree to create a realistic and all-encompassing fragrance.
Can I use anything else besides cinnamon sticks for this DIY?
Pine cones are a great alternative since they absorb and release essential oils beautifully.
Simply add a few drops of essential oil to the pinecones and let them sit for a few minutes to absorb the scent.
They can be tucked or hung as ornaments on your Christmas tree or used as part of a holiday centerpiece.

FAQ’s: DIY Christmas Tree Scent Sticks
How long do the scent sticks last?
The longevity of your scent sticks will depend on how much essential oil you use and the environment they’re in. Typically, they can last anywhere from a couple of weeks to a month. You can refresh them by adding more essential oil as needed.
Can I use other types of essential oils?
Absolutely! While pine essential oil is a popular choice for a classic Christmas scent, you can experiment with other essential oils such as cedarwood, fir, peppermint, or even orange or clove to create a unique blend.
How do I refresh the scent if it fades?
To refresh the scent, simply add a few more drops of essential oil to each cinnamon stick. Let them sit for a few minutes to absorb the oil before placing them back in your fake Christmas tree or home decor.

Are there any other easy ways to make my home smell like Christmas?
Oh my goodness, yes!
There are so many wonderful ways to incorporate that delicious Christmasy aroma into your home.
Hey friend! What can I help you find?
Search our entire site!
These are a few of my favorite…
- Potpourri: Create your own holiday potpourri by combining dried fruits, spices, and essential oils.
- Simmering Pot: Fill a pot with water and add aromatic ingredients like fresh herbs, orange slices, cinnamon sticks, and cloves. Simmer on the stove to release the fragrant steam throughout your home.
- Dried Orange Slices: These not only add a festive look but also give a lovely citrus scent to your Christmas decorations.
- Candles: Scented candles are an easy way to fill your space with festive cheer and holiday fragrances. You can shop my favorite Christmas scented candles, here. Use code HEIDI20 for 20% off your purchase!
- Baking: The smell of fresh baked cookies, pies, or bread instantly evoke the holiday spirit. Try baking treats like Christmas cookies or spiced apple butter to fill your home with delicious, nostalgic scents.
you might also
Enjoy These Christmas DIY’s
Shop My Favorite Products
Shop my favorite home decor & lifestyle products, my LTK sources, and my Amazon Storefront.
By making a purchase with one of my affiliate links, I earn a small commission which helps me continue to create meaningful content for you!
I look forward to sharing more of my home with you and inspiring you to have a well loved home!
Follow me on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest, and LIKEtoKNOW.it.
xoxo, heidi
Don’t forget to pin this for later…








You could, but the scent would probably be a little strong.
Hello – Is there a reason why I can’t pour the oil over the cinnamon sticks?