How to Upcycle Christmas Cookie Tins into a DIY Tiered Stand

Don’t throw away old Christmas cookie tins — turn them into an easy DIY 3-tier stand you can use all year long.

Thrift stores are usually overflowing with old cookie tins during the holiday season. Grab 2 to 3 cookie tins in varying sizes and build yourself a farmhouse tiered stand in less than 30 minutes!

Before and after photo showing stacked Christmas cookie tins transformed into a painted DIY tiered stand decorated with pinecones and flowers | Gathered In The Kitchen

I love repurposing items that I can buy on the cheap and turn into designer knockoff…and I love Christmas crafts even more! Farmhouse styled tiered stands are all the rage lately, but they come with a pretty steep price tag, like these ones! So rather than buy a 3 tier farmhouse stand, make your own for a fraction of the cost!

Why This Cookie Tin DIY Works So Well

This is one of those DIY projects that checks all the boxes. It’s budget-friendly, beginner-approved, and uses items you already have or can easily thrift.

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my link, at no extra cost to you. Please read full disclosure here.

Uses inexpensive or free materials
No advanced DIY skills required
Can be customized for any season or decor style
Makes a great countertop or table centerpiece

This post contains affiliate links. See my disclosure here.

Supplies Needed to Make 3 Tier Farmhouse Stand

You can customize this project using what you already have, but here are the supplies I used for reference.

Metal Cookie Tins
Wooden Candle Sticks
Liquid Nails (this one is a re-sealable squeeze container, so you do not need a caulk gun like I used in my video)
Heirloom White Spray Paint
Hammered Silver Spray Paint
Drill and Drill Bits
Screws

Step 1: Clean the cookie tins
Begin by washing your cookie tins to remove any dust or residue. Peel off all stickers and sticky labels, then wipe the tins dry so the paint will adhere properly.

Step 2: Spray paint the tins
In a well-ventilated area (or outdoors), spray paint the cookie tins one consistent color, coating the tops, bottoms, and sides evenly. Set them aside and allow the paint to fully dry before handling.

Three cookie tins spray painted silver outdoors on cardboard with spray paint can | Gathered In The Kitchen

Step 3: Prepare the candle sticks or table legs
While the tins are drying, cut the candle sticks or table legs to your desired heights if needed. Paint them to match or complement the tins, then let them dry completely.

Step 4: Assemble the tiered stand
Using a strong adhesive, attach the candle sticks or legs between each cookie tin, stacking from largest on the bottom to smallest on top. Take your time lining everything up and allow the glue to cure according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Hands assembling a DIY tiered stand by attaching painted candle sticks between stacked cookie tins | Gathered In The Kitchen

Step 5: Embellish and decorate
Once the stand is fully assembled and secure, add any embellishments you like and decorate it for the season. This tiered stand can be styled for holidays, everyday decor, or used as functional storage.

Different Ways to Style a Cookie Tin Tiered Stand

One of my favorite things about this project is how versatile it is. Once the base is built, you can easily restyle it for different seasons or uses.

Farmhouse kitchen centerpiece
Winter or holiday decor
Coffee bar organization
Craft or art supply storage
Bathroom or laundry room display

I’ve since decorated this tiered stand for fall and winter, and I love how easily it transitions with a few simple changes. Wrapping the tins with burlap ribbon is one of my favorite ways to soften the look and add texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

No. In fact, varying sizes create the best tiered look.

Can I make this without a drill?

Yes. Strong adhesive works well if you don’t want to drill through the tins.

Can I use thrifted tins?

Absolutely. Thrift stores are one of the best places to find unique cookie tins for this project.

Check out these 17 Easy To Make Christmas Decor Projects for more Christmas inspiration!

I love seeing your creations! What have you repurposed lately? Saved anything from the landfill? I’ve recently started painting furniture and giving it new life. It’s truly amazing what a paint of coat and some imagination can do! My favorite so far has been this side table that was needing to be thrown away and this dresser turned dining room sideboard.