We count birch bark tubes as holiday decor that can be displayed year-round. They give off a woodsy, winter wonderland sort of vibe while adding texture. Because they can be cut to your liking, the display options are endless.
We love how Cynthia uses her birch tubes to hold glass votive candles. Because the bark is thin, light peeks through casting a lovely, warm glow. You can also add a single stemmed flower or a small bunch which makes a beautiful combo of textures and colors. For an extra festive touch, use holly, garland, or a few poinsettia branches. You can pick up a set of 5 from Jill at Small Stump for $28 (and because they are harvested from fallen trees--no two are alike, adding to their unique form).
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I love the birch tubes with the glass votive candles!
The rustic look of the tubes combined with the candles is warm and beautiful.
BTW, the Etsy seller Lichenwoods is giving away a set of three rustic wooden candle holders with tea lights as part of houzz's holiday party:
http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/12741/list/The-2009-Houzz-Holiday-Party---Enter-to-Win-
oh my god! so beautiful! who;d have thought you could od that with birch bark. i love. =)
Just be careful with the candles, birch bark is one of the best materials for tinder there is, it burns even when wet.
I love these, but would like to buy them locally. Anyone have a source for these in San Francisco?
So pretty when used as candle holders! I love to bring the outside in, especially during the winter months when I don't venture out much.
Heather C - I live in SF too, but I don't know how much luck we're going to have. Birch trees in North America don't cross the Mississippi or leave Canada (per the USGS).
I had been wondering why I hadn't seen birch bark in floral arrangements out here.
Maybe DIY something from eucalyptus - we have a lot of them (but they're very flammable too).