We did a VBS this year about the fruit of the Spirit and made a huge 12 ft talking tree adorned with nine different fruit – one for each of the fruits. I wanted a tree that would be lightweight and something that I could take down and store. We decided to construct the tree out of 2X2 strips of wood and cardboard. The tree was constructed in four pieces. Each section was tapered slightly at the top to create an overall tree design that was aline. Each tree section was made by attaching the 2X2 strips to a semi-circle made from 1/4" plywood. The front of the section was then covered in cardboard. After the four sections were complete, We used insulation foam to make stripes up each section. The tree sections were painted black then highlighted with grey on the bark (insulation foam strips).

The sections were joined using large bolts and nuts through each adjoining section. The limbs were made of thin strips of screen molding and cardboard and painted in the same manner. The limbs were attached to the frame of the top two sections and supported by a fishing line strung from the ceiling. The tree was attached to a plywood sheet covered in green outdoor carpet. The roots were made by piling up insulation foam on the carpet sheet then running up the tree. I received inspiration from the following website: http://www.axtell.com

The entire construction cost around $200 and was well worth it as we are planning to use it again next year in a swamp where the tree will be covered in moss.

Carolyn

Moderator adds: Carolyn had offered to send photos of her tree, however, contact info for Carolyn has been lost!  If anyone creates such a tree, please post a photo.