Birthday
HydrangeasA coffee bean tree is a decorative topiary whose crown is covered in coffee beans. It smells of coffee, looks cosy and makes a nice gift for a colleague or coffee lover, or a kitchen decoration. Here is what you need and how to make one step by step.
Complete a gift for a colleague with flowers for a colleague.
What you need
- A polystyrene ball 8–12 cm across (or a ball of paper and thread).
- Coffee beans — whole, similar in size and roast.
- A stick, branch or thick wire for the trunk.
- A pot or cup and plaster of Paris.
- A glue gun and brown paint or fabric for the ball.
- Decor: cinnamon sticks, star anise, ribbon, moss.
Step by step
- Prepare the ball. Paint it brown or cover it in fabric so gaps between beans do not show.
- First layer. Glue beans flat side down, tightly packed.
- Second layer. Glue beans flat side up over the first layer to cover the gaps.
- Trunk. Glue the stick into the ball; wrap it in jute or ribbon if you like.
- Base. Mix the plaster according to the instructions, pour it into the pot and hold the trunk upright until it sets.
- Decor. Cover the plaster with beans, moss or sisal and add cinnamon, star anise and a bow.
Tips and safety
- Use the glue gun carefully — hot glue can burn.
- Work with plaster in a ventilated room and follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
- If children are helping, leave the glue and plaster to an adult.
- Keep the tree away from moisture so the beans stay looking good.
For similar festive decor see New Year topiary, and for more ideas see Handmade gift ideas.
FAQ
How many beans do I need?
For a ball about 10 cm across in two layers, 150–250 g of beans is usually enough.
How long does the scent last?
The scent fades over time, which is normal for a decorative piece. Stored somewhere dry, the tree will keep its looks for a long time.
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Author: Maria Svitlovir
Graduated from Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Institute of Biology and Medicine (2001). BSc in Biology, MSc in Horticulture. Writes about plants, works at a garden centre selecting and repotting plants, and contributes to plant reference guides.
