Hello, I’m back again with another post. Getting a lot accomplished in the new year! I had several days off from work and completed many projects on my list – DIY sofa table, clearing out space in the garage for Joe’s new riding lawn mower, a third dining shelf, and this awesome DIY sign!
I have been wanting one of these FOREVER! I see them all over Pinterest and knew I would have the perfect spot once I got my third shelf. On a previous trip to Lowe’s, I walked the aisles looking for the lightest piece of wood. We have plenty of scrap wood at home, but it’s all very heavy. I wanted this sign to be big and didn’t feel comfortable hanging something so heavy. I found this piece that is actually a riser, in the molding section. It was only $6 and for its size, it’s very light.
First I stained it with Minwax Special Walnut. While it was drying, I went to my computer and using Microsoft Word, I picked a font and size that fit best on a standard sheet of paper. Luckily I got the sizing right on the first try.
My original plan was to cut out the letters and use them as a stencil to hand paint the wording onto the sign. Because my printer decided to work that day (sometimes I can’t even get it to print a coupon barcode correctly), I thought I would try to just use the letters as is. At this point I was wishing I had one of those fancy vinyl machines, but hey I get by, haha.
Using mod podge I glued down all the letters and let it dry. Then, I added another coat of stain, some gray paint, and did a little distressing with a sanding block and steel wool.
I let my sign dry over night and then nailed some large picture hangers to the back.
All done! I’m so happy with how it turned out! Still working on styling the dining shelves. Now that Christmas is over, it’s like I’m starting all over again. I love a fresh start!
How awesome, Allison! I wouldn't have ever thought that the letters weren't painted on. That was such a creative way to go about it!
Very cute and creative! I've been following up on Instagram for a while, but just finally found your blog. I love it! Don't mind me, I'm going to poke around all your posts 🙂
Did you add the stain on top of the letters? And you mentioned you used grey pain? Where did you add the grey pain am trying to make a sign 🙂
No, stain only on the wood. I used gray paint to "distress" the edges.