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Quick and Easy DIY Christmas Sign

Love a simple DIY Christmas sign that’s great for your home? Check out how easy and fun it is to make! I made mine in less than 30 minutes with a few materials from the craft store. This year I wanted to go away from the traditional bright red and green in my home, but still manage to have that Christmas feel when the time comes. The shape of a Christmas tree helps me keep it in the Christmas decor genre, but the use of neutral colors gives it a new spin. This craft will show you a new way to think outside of the box. Are you ready to get wild, with a little bit of cheetah print, trying something new with me? Let’s go! Make Your Own Neutral Christmas Sign “O Christmas Tree, O Christmas Tree,” how lovely are your neutral colors! The remix to this classic song is perfect for a remix to a classic little project. Mixing our tree up with neutral colors could not have turned out any better. I just love how it all came together. This fun craft will definitely be a statement piece up on the ledge of my mantle, which is perfect because I love setting wood decor up there to help decorate for each season! Using an old Christmas tree shape made from pallet wood, neutral colored tissue paper, fancy napkins, and scrapbook pages, and a few other crafting supplies, you can make this Neutral Christmas Tree home Decor Sign. The beauty of this project is you get to decide the colors for your papers applied, so it will work even if you choose to not to do a neutral theme. Be creative and have fun! I can’t wait to see what y’all create. Just follow the steps below and let’s have some fun! One question though, do you love the cheetah print as much as me? I think it makes the whole project pop! Supplies needed for your Neutral Christmas Sign: Pallet wood Christmas Tree  Soft Matte Gel or Mod Podge Saran Wrap, Wax Paper, Aluminum Foil Foam Paint Brush Heat Gun/dryer Scrapbook paper: brown, tans, creams, music notes, plaid, gingham, leopard print, etc. Tissue paper and fancy 2-ply napkin Paper cutter  Squeegee/Flat edge tool Sanding block Fast Drying Acrylic Spray Seal Instructions to make a Neutral Christmas Sign I created this Christmas tree with old pallet wood years ago. Measured, cut to the sizes I needed. Placed a long piece on the back to keep it all together, also serving as the trunk to my Christmas tree.  Select your neutral sheets of scrapbook paper, 2-ply napkins, and 1 sheet of coordinating tissue paper to cover your tree. Remember I am going for a neutral feel, but you can do whatever you prefer. Same technique will work for all styles.  Beginning with the bottom layer of my tree, I am using a sheet of tissue paper. I wanted to have a solid piece for this layer and scrapbook paper was not quite long enough.  Apply a thin layer Soft Matte Gel, or Mod Podge, and carefully add your tissue paper of choice. It is very delicate to work with. With saran wrap, wax paper, or even foil, lightly smooth out your tissue paper, helping it adhere to the gel and work out any wrinkles or air bubbles.  Trim excess paper with a razor blade, being extra careful not to rip.    For my next layer, I am using a fancy 2 ply-napkin. You know me, I love a good cheetah print. Remove the back layer of your napkin, and cut a section to cover that latter of your tree. Leave some excess on there.  Apply the same way, working very carefully, as it is also very fragile as the tissue paper.  Use a small hand sanding block to help rub off excess from sides.  Decide on which style of scrapbook paper you want to have as your next layer of tree. Use your paper cutter to trim the amount you need. I always have the hardest time with this part, but this is where you make the project your own.   Apply a thin layer of Mod Podge on your tree, and then apply your cut scrapbook sheet. Pay attention to placement. Use a squeegee or flat edge tool, pressing down to push or any excess Mod Podge under the paper.  Wipe the excess from your squeegee and on your tree with a paper towel. Repeat for the remaining layers of your tree.  Use a sanding block to remove any excess overhang of your scrapbook pages on your tree. You can also rough up the edges of your tree layers with the sanding block, to add a rustic feel if you desire.  Rub excess debris so your surface is clean. Once you are happy with the look of your tree, seal it with a layer of Mod Podge.  I hope you have enjoyed this DIY Christmas sign project. It is a simple and cheap way to dress up your home décor for the holidays. One of my favorite things about DIY projects are all the possibilities. You can always change things around if you don’t like it! This was an amazing DIY Christmas sign that’s great for your home. Have you made a DIY project like this before? I’d love to see your version of this DIY Christmas sign! If you use the same supplies as me, feel free to share on my Facebook page. Just pin this DIY Christmas Sign tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 0

Breast Cancer Awareness Pumpkin Sign

Follow these simple directions on how to make a breast cancer awareness pumpkin sign! Make one for yourself or share it with your friends. You can even give them as gifts during October, which is national breast cancer awareness month! October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and I want to show my support through a craft. Follow along as we make a project that shows hope, love, and support for those who are fighting cancer in any way. This activity will remind you of the importance of regular mammograms! Breast cancer awareness is symbolized through lots of pink ribbons, socks, bumper stickers, and water bottles. Pink anything reminds me of Breast Cancer Awareness month. Pink pumpkins can be a nice way to remind yourself to get checked, and those you love too. This craft would be a loving gift, for one who is battling, one who has survived, and the family of those of one who fought a good fight.  DIY Breast Cancer Awareness Pumpkin Sign In the US, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. I am sure you know someone yourself. that has been diagnosed. That is why I am sharing with you a simple craft, but SOOO meaningful. I just love how it turned out. This craft would be a perfect addition to your home or happy mail for someone you love. Using a white canvas, some pink scrapbook paper, Mod Podge, and a few other supplies, I was able to create this heartfelt Breast Cancer Awareness craft. Check out the video to see just how easy it was to make. One question though, have you scheduled your appointment to be checked? Supplies needed for your Breast Cancer Awareness Pumpkin Sign: Canvas panels Pink Scrapbook papers Brown Scrapbook paper Scrapbook Leaves Breast Cancer Awareness Sticker, Transfer, Stamp, or Quote Mod Podge  Paint brush Thin paintbrush Brown paint Pencil/pen Heat Gun/dryer Instructions for Pumpkin Sign: Begin with a plain canvas panel. Add a pink scrapbook paper of your choice to the canvas.  To dull it down a bit, simply brush over the paper with a thin layer of Mod Podge.  Fun part is deciding which scrapbook papers you want to use to create your multiple different pink pumpkins.  Freehand some pumpkin shapes on the backs of your scrapbook paper. You want some of all sizes. Remember no pumpkin is ever perfect as you are creating. If you are not great at freehand, you can trace any pumpkin shapes you find online.  Be sure your canvas is dry before you start playing with placements of your scrapbook pumpkins. Use a heat gun to speed up the drying process, if needed. Once happy with placement, apply a thin layer of Mod Podge directly to your canvas and then place your scrapbook pumpkin on top.  Use your squeegee tool to work out any excess Mod Podge and air bubbles that are trapped underneath. Use a heat gun to make sure they are sufficiently dry.  To make your pumpkins stand out, grab your pencil and trace around the edges a bit. Add your pumpkin lines down the front as well. With your finger, smudge the pencil markings to add some dimension and detail. You can use a paint pen or black paint, if you prefer either of those tools instead. Add your remaining pumpkin, layering on top of your first 2 pumpkins. Use your Mod Podge to make it adhere. Dry with a heat gun. Remember to add your pumpkin markings and dimension with your pencil. Smudge a bit.  Grab some brown scrapbook paper to create your pumpkin stems. Freehand or tracing, create stems of all shapes and sizes, remembering to have fun with it.  Add your stems with Mod Podge, by dabbing on a bit where you will place on the pumpkin. Dry with a heat gun.  Outline your stems using the same pencil/smudge technique.Add as much detail as you like.  With the open spot at the top of your canvas, apply your Breast Cancer awareness sticker, transfer, scrapbook paper, stamp, or stencil. Whatever media you decide, it will look great. What quote will you use?  Grab some scrapbook leaves and add them onto your canvas here and there with Mod Podge. Play with placement. Let dry.  Outline your leaves once dry to add dimension, if you prefer. With some brown paint and thin paintbrush, add some pumpkin twisty vines to add some detail to complete the look.  This pink pumpkin craft can be the relaxing therapy you need just like any other wooden craft I have made! It can be the smile on someone’s face who is feeling down when they receive it as a gift. Or it can even be a little reminder to be proactive in the fight against breast cancer. Whatever this craft represents to you, it is important. Just as you are important. I am so glad you were here to make it with me today.   Just pin this Breast Cancer Awareness Pumpkin sign tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Amanda Armendariz 0

Thrifted Wall Clock

Follow along step by step as I show you how to transform an old wooden board, a small clock, and a shelf all found from thrift stores, into your new favorite thrifted wall clock that you can hang in any room. I just love the versatility and functionality of this DIY project. You will too! You know me. Finding a good thrift store and browsing for hours is SOO much fun for me. If you have been around here long enough you also know I love crafting with wood scraps.  So there is no hiding that there isn’t a piece of wood that I see that I can’t create something wonderful from it. A trip to the thrift store is how I landed this DIY project I am about to share with you. This thrifted wall clock I created brings me so much satisfaction because it has so many things I love. Thanks to some great thrift store finds, or old things made new again from your own home, you will be able to create this adorable thrifted wall clock decor in no time. Thrifted Wall Clock   If you are like me, you have walked the aisles of a thrift store and come to the aisle with old clocks. Just sitting there sad and lonely, wishing they could be up on someone’s wall once again. You can hear the clocks making that tick-tock sound they were meant to make. This kind of reminds me of Toy Story, when the toys just want to be loved again. Just wishing a kid would pick them up and play with them. Go find a clock in a thrift store ya’ll!! It needs a new home and you can give it that by making your own thrifted wall clock hanging decor. With my 1 x 12 wooden board, transfer sheet, an old clock, and a little wooden shelf I am able to create something totally functional and beautiful. This Wall Clock Hanging Decor would look great in your entryway, your hallway, your living room, a guest bedroom or bathroom, etc. The opportunities are endless for this beauty. I also love how I can easily change out the home decor I rest on the shelf to go along with the seasons and holidays throughout the year. I just love this project, and I think you will too! Supplies needed for your Thrifted Wall Clock: 1 x 12 piece of wood White Paint Prima Marketing Inc Redesign Transfer – Never-Ending Story Wood wall Shelf (Thrift store find or Amazon) Small wall clock Paintbrush Heat Gun/dryer Brown Paint Sanding block Fast Drying Acrylic Spray Seal Steps: Grab your 1 x 12 wooden board and rub it free of any debris. Apply a coat of white paint to it. Be sure you get the sides so you will have a finished looking project. Let it dry. Use a heat gun to speed up the process. Next we will add a transfer. You can select your own, to make it unique and personal. Or maybe you want the same as me with the transfer I found on Amazon, Prima Marketing Inc Redesign Transfer – Never-Ending Story, Mixed.  To apply your transfer you will carefully remove the transfer from its white backing. Slowly and carefully lower the transfer onto the board, making sure that it does not touch until the placement is correct. You will need to overlap on your board as you move down it’s length to ensure your entire board is covered with a transfer. Using the provided tool, or one of your choice, start at one end of the transfer and rub firmly to adhere the image to the surface. Do this until the entire image is transferred. This will work your muscles, but it is a great reason to feel the burn. If any parts aren’t transferred when you lift, simply lay it back down and rub more on that portion. After it is transferred, with a clean dry hand, smooth down any bits that aren’t flatly adhered. Next seal your wooden board with a water based sealer. Let it dry.  Antique your board a bit with a brown-aged look, by distressing it. Distress as much as you like. Next, let’s apply your small wood wall shelf. Eyeball to make sure it is nice and level, if you are a bit crazy like me. Or be as exact as you want. Use a thin blue section of painters to help you mark where you will be working.  Grab your drill with the appropriate bit, and place your 2 screws in the board. Fix your wooden shelf to your board. Next we will add our wall clock. We want it to rest up high on our board, so we have room to add some interchangeable home decor on the shelf. Man I love finding little gems from the thrift store and this little clock my friends, is a gem.  Measure where it will need to be placed, paying attention to the mounting system on the back of your clock. Not all clocks are the same, so be sure to check. So cute! Now to make it your own. Grab some of your favorite home decor to rest on the little wooden shelf we just added. I am adding a thin wire basket to keep with the farmhouse feel in my home. I will add some greenery to add a pop of color and create some height visually. Add an empty jar, a little farm sign, and call it a day!  Add a hanging mount to the back of your wall clock decor so you can post this project in just about any room of your home.  That is it! Isn’t it great to take something that is boring and old and make it beautiful once again? I love a good project, but one that has value and purpose, along with beauty and functionality, is one of my favorite reasons I craft. This project has so many opportunities to be adorable in your home no matter where you decide to place it. Just pin this thrifted wall clock tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 0

DIY Scrap Lumber Pumpkin Decor

These scrap lumber pumpkin decor are a great way to use up wood from the yard while creating unique fall decor for your home. See how easy it is today! Fall decor is something I love putting out each year. Almost as much as decorating for Christmas. When looking for new things to decorate with each year I always try to do it on a budget. That is why I thought these scrap pieces of lumber would make the cutest pumpkin decor. These wood pumpkins are the perfect way to spruce up your space, and they’re also a great craft for kids of all ages! If you want some more fall inspiration, check out How to make your own DIY Halloween Boo Sign that will for sure help get your creative juices flowing this fall. Happy crafting! DIY Scrap Lumber Pumpkin Decor If you are like me and enjoy the fall season, then this DIY Scrap Lumber Pumpkin Decor is perfect for you. Pumpkins are traditionally carved with a knife. But if you’re looking for a new spin on Halloween decor this year then you will want to give these a try. Follow along and make this cute little pumpkin decoration yourself! Supplies needed for your Scrap Lumber Pumpkin Decor: Scrap lumber of all sizes Random sticks Electric drill and bit Orange, turquoise blue, off white paint Foam paint brushes Faux leaves Hot glue gun Scrap Lumber Pumpkin Decor Instructions: Grab 3 different pieces of your desired sizes of scrap lumber. Next with an electric drill and the appropriate size drill bit, make a hole large enough to fit your stem right in the top of the scrap lumber later in the project.  Once you have drilled all your holes, wipe free of any debris. Grab your orange paint and paintbrush. Paint your tallest piece.   Load your hole up with some hot glue, and slide your stem and faux leaf/leaves right down inside. Hold in place as glue hardens.  Set aside to dry. Repeat steps of painting your next scrap lumber piece with your turquoise blue paint, or paint color of your choice. Remember to wipe your scrap lumber clean before painting.   Insert stem and leave with a large amount of hot glue in the hole. Paint your last piece of scrap lumber with an off white. Have some fun with it by bringing in a bit of blue paint from your other brush to tie your pumpkins together a bit.  Repeat steps to add stem and leaves. To give your pumpkins an antique look, dry brush a bit of brown and your turquoise blue on your orange pumpkin. Streak here and there. Wipe a bit with a paper towel if needed. Be sure to really highlight your edges on your pumpkins.  Repeat the streaking, dry technique on your blue pumpkin with a bit of orange and brown to highlight your edges, continuing with your antique look. On your white pumpkin, use brown, blue, and orange to highlight the edges to complete the set of your painted lumber pumpkins.  Pair your set together, accentuating their uniqueness in color and height. How to create pumpkins with a more rustic look: I had some old lumber that was near and dear to my heart, so I just couldn’t paint it. But I just couldn’t let it sit there taking up space, either. So a rustic set of pumpkins was what I created to solve those challenges, and I am so pleased.  Simply, skip the step of painting. Be sure your lumber scraps are different sizes to create your set. Repeat steps with drill, inserting stems, and leaves. Play with your leaf types and sizes before officially gluing in place.  I love this look as a complete set, just as much as my painted pumpkins. Have fun and let your creativity soar as you take scrap pieces of lumber to make some amazing pumpkin decor! Set up an assembly line and mass produce these. Once you have plenty made, sell them at a craft show or gift them to friends. You will love setting these out year after year! Just pin this DIY Scrap Lumber Pumpkin Decor tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 0

Spooky Book Set Halloween Decor Tutorial

Follow along step by step as I show you how to make the perfect, creepy little addition to your Spooky Book Set Halloween Decor. A simple craft to make for yourself or as a gift for a Halloween loving friend like me! Do you love Halloween as much as I do? Do you love the cute little happy pumpkins of Halloween sitting on a gate or the darker side of Halloween with fear that builds as you hear the music of Michael Meyers? I am all for the spooky side, and this little DIY project is perfect for capturing that scary vibe in the simplest of ways.  DIY Spooky Book Set Halloween Decor Any decor with wood is a win in my book. Add a seasonal spooky element to it, and it is like hitting the decor jackpot. This DIY Halloween Spooky Book Set is my new favorite project in my home and I know you will love it too. Using old scrap wood and my letter stamps, I am able to create new Halloween decor that will look great on my mantle, kitchen table, bookshelf, or front entryway. The beauty of this project is you get to decide how spooky or playful you want your Halloween book set to be. Changing your book titles, and even paint color can give you an entirely new vibe.  Just follow the steps below and get creative! One question though, will you be listening to spooky Halloween songs as you craft?  Supplies needed for your Spooky Book Set Halloween Decor: 3 wooden blocks – scrap lumber Black paint Paintbrush Heat Gun/dryer Letter Stamps  StazOn Ink Pad – white Sanding block Fast Drying Acrylic Spray Seal Instructions on making your Halloween decor: Grab your desired size wood block. You can use scrap wood if you like. I am using pieces that are the exact same size. With some black paint, give a base coat to your 3 wooden blocks. Cover completely. Don’t forget to do the sides.  As you are painting, be thinking of what spooky book titles you want to have on your books! I am a Michael Meyers fan. Are you? Dry completely with a heat gun/dryer to speed up the process.  Touch up any spots that you may have missed. With your letter stamps, plan on what you want your spooky book spines to read. Play with placement until you are satisfied. You can measure it out if you are extra precise, or eyeball it like me. I think the improper placement adds to the creepiness. With your white ink pad, begin stamping out your first book. Letters should be shifted towards the left of the spine, leaving an empty space on the right section of wood blocks. I am writing “Michael.” For my second book, I will stamp out “Meyers.” To finish my set, I am stamping out “Returns.”  I love it! To distress your books, grab your sanding block and rub along the edges. Distress as much as you like.  Carefully wipe your blocks of any debris, paying attention not to smear your stamps.   Hot glue your wooden blocks together to form your complete spooky book set, one block at a time.  Grab some twine, jute, string, or even ribbon of your liking, and unravel a bit so you have some to wrap easily. Apply a thin line of hot glue to start your wrapping, to help it stay in place. Wrap around several times to make it thick. Cut and hot glue the end to secure.  Embellish your spooky book set with a little foam pumpkin, or any halloween accessory you desire, hot glued right on top.  Spray seal your painted wooden blocks with a clear poly.  Last but not least, enjoy your simple and Spooky Halloween Book Set! See how simple and spooky? It is so easy that this DIY craft can be done with your little ones too. Have them paint your wooden blocks and you handle the “Hard stuff” of stamping. This would even be a great craft to do with friends from the neighborhood, as you chat about who had the best Halloween decor the year before while enjoying some creepy finger foods to set the mood. And you know, Halloween decor is always the most fun to create, at least in my opinion! Are you as excited for Halloween as I am?  Just pin this Spooky Book Set Halloween Decor  tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 0

DIY Farm Themed Wooden Letter for Wall

This farm themed wooden letter is easy to make and will look great on the wall. You can even personalize it by painting the border any color you want! It’s time to decorate! DIY projects are fun and can be made out of anything. I’m taking a monogrammed letter I already had and transforming it into a farmhouse theme.  Wooden letters with a farm theme are perfect for the home because they can be changed easily to suit any season. Let’s get started on this project Farm Themed Wooden Letter for Wall I love all things farmhouse style. Making this farmed themed wooden letter to hang on my wall was such an easy transformation of a monogrammed letter I already had. With modge podge and farm themed scrapbook paper, I easily transformed this monogrammed letter to exactly what I was wanting. You can easily do this technique for any theme. All you need is a monogrammed letter and scrapbook paper to match the theme you are wanting and you are all set. Follow the steps below and learn exactly how I transformed a monogrammed letter into a farm themed wooden letter. Supplies needed to make a Farm Themed Wooden Letter for your wall: Paint Dauber Black Paint Scrapbook paper Sponge Paint Brush Mod Podge Monogrammed Letter Step-by-step Instructions for this DIY wall decor: Paint your monogrammed letter. Make sure you are painting the outside edges making a nice border around the monogrammed wood letter you choose.  Now select the scrapbook paper you wish to modge podge onto your wooden letter and lay your wooden letter on top of the paper. Trace around your letter so you have and outline of what to cut You will be doing half the letter at a time. That way you can have a different paper on the bottom than the top.  Cut your outline out with scissors and lay on top of your letter. Make sure it will fit if not you may need to do a little trimming. Repeat cutting and tracing different parts of your letter onto different paper so you can have different patterns and colors on your monogrammed letter.  Now time to modge podge your paper on now that you have them all selected and cut out.  Using your sponge paintbrush apply a heavy coat of modge podge onto a section of your letter at a time. Then apply your scrapbook paper you cut for that section.  Take a squeegee and push out the excess modge podge. Take a paper towel to dab off the excess that gathers at the edges.  You can add make a more unique design by adding patches of scrapbook paper on the sides of another layer of paper.  Once all your scrapbook paper has been applied go back over the paper with some modge podge. Sand the edges for a more finished look as well as take your paint dauber and touch up any imperfections of the black border you painted before starting.  How to hang wooden letters to the wall I suggest hanging wooden letters to the wall with mounting tape. When using the double-sided mounting tape please remember that a little bit goes a long way. Letters mounted with removable tape can be carefully taken down from the wall without damage, and they will stick right back on. I love this method because I change things around a lot and this allows me to keep changing my decor without damaging my walls. Can’t wait to see what you create! This is a technique you can use over and over to help transform any wooden letter you find and want to add some personal touch to. Just be creative and have fun. Just pin this Farmed themed wooden letter for wall tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 0

Make Your Own Initial Wall Decor

Follow along step by step as I show you how to make the perfect wall decor with an initial. A perfect craft to make for yourself or as a gift for a friend! Are you looking for a quick and easy way to decorate your walls? I have the perfect solution! In this blog post, we will be using items that are easily found in any craft store. This initial wall decor project is effortless, but it has a big impact on any room. It’s just one of many ways to get creative with crafts and have some amazing wall decor for your own home. How to make your own Initial Wall Decor Earlier I made a DIY farmhouse monogram sign and it was the perfect accessory to my living room. I was wanting to add a little bit more monogrammed decor in a different room and thought I would try making a framed initial wall decor. You too can easily make this for your own home. Just follow along and see just how simple it is! Supplies needed to make a DIY Initial Wall Decor Monogram Wooden Letter Folk Art Black Paint Thin paintbrush Scrapbook pages of your choice Squeegee Thick paintbrush Mod Podge Sanding sponge/nail file Beadboard (painted white) Wooden Frame (painted gray) Step-by-step instructions for making an Initial Wall Decor Grab your wooden initial wall hanging and begin painting all the sides black. You do not have to have full coverage. Paint the outer edges around your letter just in case your scrapbook paper doesn’t completely cover your wood as you place later. Grab your scrapbook pages you want to use to cover your letter. I am choosing to use 2 different sheets so it is a little less busy, but you can use as many as you want.  Working in sections on your letter, place your scrapbook paper underneath to trace a portion. I am doing a top and bottom portion. Grab your next scrapbook page, and trace out the next section you want to cover. Play with it to create the look you like. Cut out your letters about an ⅛” inside the line so I will have some painted wood peeking through as I place.  Lay your cut out scrapbook pages on your wooden letter, making any adjustments as needed before we begin to Mod Podge. Work quickly as you apply the Mod Podge directly to your wood, since we are working with such a large section of scrapbook paper to be attaching.  Check your positioning before you begin pushing down on your scrapbook paper. Grab your squeegee or a spatula, if you like to work in the kitchen sometimes like me, and begin pushing out all the excess Mod Podge under your scrapbook paper.     Be sure to start in the center as you push and wipe out any excess Mod Podge and work out any air bubbles. Clean up with a paper towel as you work. Make sure there is plenty of Mod Podge hitting the sides of your letter.  Repeat as you add the next sections of scrapbook paper. If your pages don’t line up perfectly, don’t worry about it. You could always add some twine as an accessory over the area or a little black paint to give it a distressed look.  You can overlap your pages if you prefer. If your measurements are a bit too long, use a sanding sponge or a nail file to trim excess. Take your black paint and with a sponge, add a little thin layer on edges over top of your scrapbook pages to give it a more finished look. Do the same over the joining lines of your scrapbook pages. Let dry before applying a thin layer of Mod Podge over the top to seal your letter. If your paint smears a bit, that is okay. It adds a little character to your piece.  Apply a thin second coat of Mod Podge. Let dry. Attach your completed wooded letter to a sheet of your already painted white beadboard with E6000 to help it stay nice and secure. Be sure it is nice and centered. Once E6000 is dry, you will attach your beadboard to an already painted gray frame, securing it well to complete the look of your diy initial wall hanging.  Be sure to give this project a try if you are looking for a new way to decorate your rooms. I love how it adds a personalized touch to your room or would be the perfect addition to a gallery wall. Just pin this Initial Wall Decor tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 0

How to make your own DIY Halloween Boo Sign

If you are looking for a new way to decorate for Halloween then you are in the right place! Watch as I show you how to make a simple DIY Halloween Boo Sign. It is the perfect way to add some cute and fun decorations to your home this Halloween. Boo! Today I will be sharing with you how to make such a simple but cute Halloween decor. It is a DIY Halloween Boo sign on wood blocks. It’s so easy and it will look great on a shelf, mantel, or tabletop. With very few supplies needed you can make multiples of these at a time for maybe those friends and family in your life who aren’t as crafty as you! DIY Halloween Boo Sign Ya’ll as you know I just love wood decor signs. Making new seasonal decor wood signs brings me so much excitement. These DIY Halloween Boo signs are no different. Since Halloween is approaching I thought it would be the perfect time to pull out some stencils and create some simple but cute Halloween decor. Today I decided to make some BOO signs for my home. I plan on displaying these around some pumpkins on my mantel. You can use them however you wish. The best part about making your own decor using stencils is you can totally make this how you want them to be! Follow the steps below but change up the paint color or wood size. Just have fun and let’s get started. Supplies needed for your DIY Halloween BOO Sign: 3 wooden blocks – 4” squares Black paint Paintbrush Heat Gun/dryer Letter stencils – “B” & “O” Finger daubers White paint Orange Paint Fast Drying Acrylic Spray Seal Steps: Grab your desired size wood block. You can use scrap wood if you like.  Lay out your stencils letters, “B” & “O” to be sure they fit on your wooden blocks.  With some black paint, give a base coat to your 3 wooden blocks. Cover completely. Don’t forget to do the sides.  Dry completely with a heat gun/dryer to speed up the process.  With your finger paint dauber, start applying white paint inside your stencil working with the letter “B” first.  If your stencils have a little gap within the letter and you don’t prefer that look, you can always use a small brush to paint in by hand to close the gap. Blend it to make it look neat. You can use a finger dauber too, but a paint brush would keep it neater. Dry again. Grab your “B” stencil and reapply on top of your white, shifted slightly to the right side, giving a shadowed look.  With your thin paintbrush, fill in your orange gaps to make your letter neat and clean.  Repeat with your two Letters “O’s”. Touch up where needed. Dry again.  To make your board appear more rustic/distressed, you can take a hand sander and rough up the edges. Once your boards are completely dry, you can rough up the whole board by lightly sanding, letters and all to continue with your distressed look.  Spray seal your painted wooden blocks. The DIY Halloween BOO Sign made with stencils, paint, and wooden blocks is the perfect way to get your family in on the fun of decorating this year. You can have a blast making these signs together (especially if you’re like me and enjoy crafts) or make them as gifts for friends who are not as crafty as you are! Either way, it’s going to be an awesome Halloween! How do you plan to use these DIY wood block decorations? Just pin this DIY Halloween BOO Sign tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 1

Learn How To Stencil

I just love using stencils when it comes to crafting and making home decor. I get asked a lot what are the best stencils to use and also how to exactly use stencils in different projects. Today I am sharing all the tips and tricks I know with you when it comes to how to stencil. How to Stencil When Crafting I have been using stencils for a long time. Which has allowed me to be able to try out lots of different tools and paints over the years. When it comes to stenciling it is a skill that over time comes naturally and with time you can honestly do it with your eyes closed. Well, not really but it does become super easy once you find the right tools, paint, and stencils. I promise you with the right tools and paint you will be stenciling like a pro. Tips and Tricks on How to Stencil Honestly, this is something that I just wing but when I started really thinking about it I do have lots of tips and tricks I use when I stencil. Like which is the best paint, the best way to apply it, and how to make sure your stencils will all fit on the project you are working on. Follow along as I share with you all my tips and tricks on how to stencil.  What Paint Should I use when using Stencils? Naturally, I typically use whichever paint is the closest to me, but in all honestly, I start with finding the right color I want for my project. If I had to pick a brand that is my favorite to use when stenciling I would say it is Master’s Touch acrylic paint from Hobby Lobby. You will find it in the art department. I love it because it is thicker and creamier than a lot of other craft paints.  Some people, like my best friend from high school who is a lifelong crafter, will say to use the more runnier stuff. She loves it but I do not. I think a lot has to do with what you love and what you started off using and are comfortable with.  Master’s Touch comes in a lot of different colors but here are my favorite colors of theirs. They range from neutral basics to beautiful pops of color. If you are looking for new colors to add to your paint collection for stenciling then try these: Permanent Black Raw Umber Titanium White Dark titanium white Chrome Oxide Green (my favorite green for grass)  Crimson (just a good red. Not too bright, not to burgundy) Lake Blue (perfect for beachy signs) Yellow Ochre (good mustardy color) Warm Grey (I actually think it’s tan, but I didn’t name them!) Ocean Green (another good beachy sign color) https://www.hobbylobby.com/Art-Supplies/Painting-Supplies/Acrylic-Painting/Permanent-Black-Master’s-Touch-Acrylic-Paint—4.1-Ounce/p/8403 What is the Best Way to Apply Paint Over a Stencil I have my go-to favorite tools when it comes to applying paint over your stencil. I started off with stencil brushes and they were not my friend. I did not like how my craft projects turned out when using them. That is when I made the switch to something new and I totally love them. I now use and only use these: Finger Dauber Jumbo Dauber Dabbing Brush Set – (Also an option, but not my favorite! 🙂 ) These are my go-to’s, even my husband loves them! You can see him use them in the zip code project we did together! They are easy to use and they really do help make the paint evenly spread and fill the stencil easily.  Obviously, if the project is a bigger stencil project you would go for the jumbo dauber. And the smaller, you would go for the finger dauber. If you haven’t ever worked with these tools before you are going to love how easily and efficiently you can get your stencil complete!  How to Clean and Store your Stencil After Using When you are done using your stencils it is best to store them flat and clean. You can use a baby wipe to clean your stencils after each use or wash them with a little soap and water. Allow them to dry and make sure they are flat during the drying process. You do not want your stencils to curl up.  Where Do I Get my Stencils? I purchase my stencils from The Stencilsmith! They are a small husband and wife business here in the USA with over 8,000 options to choose from! Check them out here — https://www.thestencilsmith.com?aff=6Or I purchase from Essential Stencil! They are a great option too! They are also a husband and wife combo! Check them out here — https://bit.ly/3eWsllE How to Stencil on Wood Stenciling is an amazing and easy way to transfer words and designs onto wood. I love how stencils can turn a plain chair into a beautiful piece of home decor. When it comes to using stencils on wood, don’t be afraid; just be inspired. Follow these simple steps, and in no time, you will be stenciling like a pro!  Lay out your stencils to make sure they will fit the wood piece you have Work from the right to left to ensure you fit everything on your board you desire Use daubers and work your way from the outside in making sure you paint is nice and evenly spread If you are using a letter twice in one project be sure to wipe off the back of the stencil so you don’t get paint on your board where you do not want it! Before long, you will be stenciling like a pro, and hope you learned a little more about how to stencil today!  Just pin these tips on how to stencil below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 3

DIY Zip Code Sign

Ready to make your own personalized zipcode sign to display on the front of your home today? In this tutorial, I am showing you exactly how to create an amazing handcrafted DIY zip code sign for your own home! We all love adding a little bit of personalization to our homes. In this tutorial, I am showing you exactly how to do that in your home! You can create your own zip code sign using very few supplies in little to no time! I am all about easy and this one is so easy! I promise you it is so simple and you will love the outcome. This DIY zip code sign can be hung outside your home or even inside on a gallery wall. DIY Zip Code Signs The best part about this DIY craft is that you can make it completely your own by following the simple steps below. Make it big or small, paint it the color that matches your style, or make it for a friend to gift! Follow along and see just how easy it is to make your own DIY Zip Code Sign! Supplies needed for your DIY Zip code sign: Number Stencils Sponge Dauber Black Paint Wood blank piece Steps Grab your desired size of wood block. You can use scrap wood like we did. Just grab a piece you have laying around Use the original wood color or you can paint it a solid color if you desire. Lay out your stencil numbers first to make sure they will all fit before you start adding paint. With your finger dauber start applying paint inside your stencil working from the last number to the first. That way you can keep your numbers fitting on your board. To make your board appear more rustic you can take a hand sander and rough up the edges a bit more. Add some twine to the end of your board to add a little extra flair to your board. You can add hot glue first to get your twine started before wrapping it around the end of your board. You can also hot glue some little pieces of greenery to the middle of your twine. Tips and Tricks for stenciling numbers on a wood board When it comes to using stencils there are a few little tricks that are great to know when using them for your crafts: If you are reusing a stencil twice in a project you will want to be sure to wipe off the back of the stencil with a wipe so you do not get paint that may have bleed to the back on your wood board. Lay out your stencils first before you start painting to make sure they will fit on your board Investing in finger sponge daubers will really help you get the paint nice and even. Now that you know how easy it is to make your own zip code sign to add to your gallery wall or front porch decor you can start making your own today! Just pin this DIY Zip Code Sign tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 0

DIY Farmhouse Monogram Sign

I am loving the farmhouse look I have in my home currently and wanted to add something else to my gallery wall. I was thinking a monogram letter would be a great addition. Follow along as I show you how I made a DIY farmhouse monogram sign that was the perfect touch to add to my farmhouse decor. If you are looking for an easy way to add some more farmhouse décor to your home then this is exactly what you are looking for. With just a large wooden letter and very few supplies you will have a finished sign in less than an hour. DIY Farmhouse Monogram Sign I am loving how this DIY farmhouse sign turned out and can’t wait to display it in my home. I am OBSESSED with how amazing it turned out! What a great addition to the farmhouse decor I already have around my home! For this project, I used a monogram large wooden letter. I also used scrapbook paper, mod podge, and a few other small supplies. Check out the video below to see how I created this monogram sign. Supplies You’ll Need: Large Wood Letter Farm Scrapbook paper – wood, barns, horses, wheat, corn, etc. Mod Podge Brush Squeegee Vinyl Scraper or any flat edge tool Heat Drying Gun Sanding block or nail file Black ink Sponge Paint Raffia or twine STEPS FOR YOUR FARMHOUSE MONOGRAM: Step 1: Beginning with your painted and prepped wooden letter, decide what scrapbook pages you want for your project. Mix and match pages; just have fun with it.  Step 2: Working in sections on your letter, place your scrapbook paper underneath to trace a portion. Then cut it out and set on your wooden letter.  Step 3: Grab your next scrapbook page, and trace out the next section you want to cover. Play with it to create the look you like. Step 4: Be sure to trim the outside edges of your scrapbook pages to ensure there is just a bit of wood showing through as you work.  Step 5: Continue to trace and cut farmhouse themed scrapbook pages to cover any remaining sections of your wooden letter.  Step 6: Once you have cut all of your scrapbook pages to fit and cover your wooden letter, play with placement to ensure you like your design before you mod podge in place.  Step 7: Grab your Mod Podge and brush directly on your letter in your first section you are covering with paper.   Step 8: Attach your first section of scrapbook paper. Use your squeegee vinyl scraper to remove any air bubbles and even out all of your glue, to really help seal all the edges.  Step 9: Repeat these steps with remaining scrapbook pages, overlapping sections where needed.  Step 10: Once all of your scrapbook pages are on your letter, paint Mod Podge over the top. Be sure to cover it completely, with a thin, consistent layer. Step 11: Use a heat drying tool to speed up the drying process. Step 12: With your sanding block, roughen up the edges of your letter by rubbing along the sides with some pressure. Be careful not to tear your scrapbook pages.  Step 13: Use a nail file to fit into the tiny/tight edges of your wooden letter. Step 14: Brush off excess debris with your hand. Step 15: Grab your black ink sponge paint thingy , and go along the edges of your wooden letter and any spots where your scrapbook pages meet to distress the edges and make it look cohesive.  Step 16: Grab a handful of raffia and tie it on your letter, making a bow. Trim your tails to the length you like. Hot glue in place to secure.  Give this DIY craft try. These would be the perfect gift to give for bridal showers, or as birthday presents. You can personalize each letter just for them by choosing scrapbook paper that matches their likes and styles. Just pin this Farmhouse Monogram Sign tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 0

How to makeover a chair using a stencil

Have any old chairs around the house that need a little TLC? With some paint, stencils, and some transfer paper, you can learn how to give your chair a makeover and make it like new again! This project is a simple and easy tutorial you’ll enjoy and takes you less than 40 minutes to do! If you have some chairs that need a little love then you will want to watch this chair makeover tutorial. I know you have seen a chair that needs some love and I have several I have been needing to paint and spruce up. I am showing you today how to do a chair makeover with stencils using paint and stencil to turn your old chairs into something amazing. Stencil Design Chair Makeover This technique is quite possibly my favorite way to makeover a chair. I love using stencils especially when it comes to making wood signs. Stencils can really take the stress out of crafting by helping you create words and designs on your projects. Supplies for Red Chair: Old wooden chair (Red) Family Stencil Never Ending Story Transfer Leopard Transfer Any old bits and pieces of transfers you like Floral and greenery transfers Transfer applicator tool or flat edge Black paint Rag Miss Lillian’s Antiquing Glaze (Black) Redesign Decor Transfer – Ruby Rose Supplies for Turquoise Chair: Old wooden chair (Turquoise) Blessed Stencils Redesign Decor Transfer – Fuschia Sunset Script Transfer Transfer applicator tool or flat edge Master’s Touch Acrylic: Raw Umber  Master’s Touch Acrylic: Warm Grey Miss Lillian’s Antiquing Glaze (Brown) Rag Steps for chair makeover with stencils: Red Chair – Step 1: Beginning with your painted and prepped wooden chair (Barn Red from Dixie Bell), decide which transfers you hope to mix and match on your chair. Play with your patterns, sizes, and images to create a fun look. We may or may not use all of them, or may not. We will decide as we get going.  Step 2: Grab your leopard transfer and shape it to fit the corner of your chair. Trim excess. Peel the white backing of your transfer and place it on your chair in the front left corner of the seat of your chair.  Step 3: Use a transfer applicator tool, or flat edge stick to apply transfer. A bubble will appear as it adheres to your wood. Once completely on your chair, rub with your hand to smooth out any air bubbles.  Step 4: Play with placement of your floral and greenery on top of your leopard print. Apply greenery  transfers using the same flat edge tool. Remember to leave space for your floral to rest on top.  Step 5: Apply your floral transfer on top of your greenery transfers. Eyeball how you think it will look best. Step 6: Next apply your Never Ending Story Script Transfer, resting on top of greenery and a small area of your floral. If it is not perfect, don’t worry.  Step 7: Grab your black paint, sponge daubers, and play with the placement of your FAMILY stencil. Holding in place, begin to dab your paint. Be sure to let it dry completely.  Step 8: Grab your rag and add a tiny portion of your antiquing glaze to it. Decide where you want it to be. I like it on the edges of the seat, the spindles, and the back of the chair. Don’t forget the legs of your chair. This will just tone down the bright paint of your chair.   Step 9: Feel free to “Grunge it up” however you like.  Step 10: If you place too much, use a baby wipe to pull the glaze back.  Step 11: Set your red chair aside to dry as you begin to work on your turquoise chair.  Turquoise Chair –  Step 1: Grab your Redesign Floral Transfers: Fuchsia Sunset. Determine which part of your transfer you want to add to your chair.  Step 2: Cut out the transfer section you like best. Be sure to cut as close as possible for your transfers and wrap on your wood where needed. Step 3: Carefully remove white paper backing and place your transfer down on the left side of the seat. Step 4: Repeat steps to apply transfer with flat edge. A bubble will appear as it adheres to your wood. Once completely on your chair, rub with your hand to smooth out any air bubbles.  Step 5: Determine and eyeball placement of your Blessed stencil.  Step 6: Apply a small section of a script transfer under where you will paint on your stencil following the steps above.  I just love how these turned out and it is so much fun using a stencil to transform a chair. Can’t wait for you to try this technique and start flipping your own furniture! Just pin this chair makeover with stencils tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 0