Faux Snow Covered Pinecones

Faux snow-covered pinecones are a simple yet stunning holiday craft that instantly brings a wintry feel to your home.

They’re perfect for filling bowls, decorating wreaths, or scattering across your holiday table for a cozy, snow-dusted effect.

This project is beginner-friendly, affordable, and uses natural materials that you can easily find outdoors or at a craft store.

How to Make Faux Snow Covered Pinecones

The best part? These pinecones can be reused every year, keeping your holiday decor classic and timeless.

Materials

• Clean, dry pinecones
• White acrylic paint or white craft paint
• Small paintbrush or sponge brush
• Craft glue or spray adhesive (optional for glitter effect)
• White or iridescent glitter (optional)
• Wax paper or parchment paper for drying
• Disposable gloves (optional)

Shop the materials

The Steps

Step 1: Prepare and Clean the Pinecones

Start by choosing pinecones that are fully opened and dry. If they’re freshly collected from outside, place them on a baking sheet and bake at 200°F for about 30 minutes to remove any sap or insects.

Let them cool completely. Lay out a piece of wax paper to protect your surface and keep everything clean while you work.

Step 2: Apply the Faux Snow Paint

Dip a small brush or sponge into white acrylic paint and gently dab it along the tips of each pinecone scale. Focus on the edges to mimic the look of freshly fallen snow.

Don’t cover the entire cone—light, uneven strokes give it a more natural effect. Rotate the pinecone as you paint to ensure all sides are evenly dusted.

Step 3: Add a Touch of Sparkle (Optional)

While the paint is still wet, sprinkle a fine layer of white or iridescent glitter over the pinecone. The glitter will stick to the wet paint, creating a shimmering snow-like effect when dry.

You can also lightly spray adhesive over the pinecones and dust them with glitter afterward if you prefer a more even sparkle.

Step 4: Let Them Dry Thoroughly

Place the painted pinecones on wax paper and leave them to dry for several hours or overnight.

Avoid stacking them so they don’t smudge. Once fully dry, gently tap off any loose glitter or excess paint flakes.

Step 5: Display and Store

Arrange your faux snow-covered pinecones in a decorative bowl, string them into garlands, or tuck them into wreaths and centerpieces. They pair beautifully with greenery, candles, or red berries for a rustic holiday look.

When the season ends, store them in a dry container so they stay fresh and ready to use next year.