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DIY Distressed Wood Signs

In this step-by-step tutorial, I will teach you, from start to finish, how to make your own DIY Distressed Wood Signs. Scrapwood, paint, stencil, and a sander are all you need! If you are wanting this same adorable look for your home, let me walk you through it!  There is not a piece of wood that I don’t love. No matter the size or shape, I LOVE it. Why you might ask? Well, because I can make adorable DIY Distressed Wood Signs with any piece of wood. So why wouldn’t I love it? Being able to create my own home decor exactly how I want it makes me happy. I bet you feel the same as I do. Or else, why would you be here? DIY Distressed Wood Signs I told you I love wood, but I did not tell you how much I love stencils, yet! I LOOOOVE stencils. Stencils are the best way to select your style, size, and overall satisfaction when creating a DIY Wood Sign. The best part is that all you need is a piece of scrap wood and a stencil of your choosing. I love The Stencil Smith personally, but really any stencil will be just fine. Next, just determine your paint colors, and you are set. You too can make your own home decor to match your style by following these steps below.  Supplies 18×12 & 16×12 wood boards Black – Fusion Mineral Paint Master’s Touch Acrylic Paints – Warm Gray (Tan) “What I Love Most About My Home” Stencils – from The Stencil Smith  “Hangry” – from the Stencil Smith   Minwax Fast Drying Polyurethane Clear Satin Sander – 220 grit How to Make Your DIY Distressed Wood Sign Grab your large wooden rectangular boards. You determine the sizes. Apply a coat of black paint all over your entire board. Don’t forget your sides to give a finished look on both boards. Use a blow dryer or heat gun to speed up the drying process.  Once dry, grab your desired colors for your stencils by squirting them on a plate.  Lay your stencil down on your board, paying attention to holding it in place as you work.  With your pouncers or finger daubers, begin to press your light-colored paint gently into your stencil. With a large stencil, I start at the top and work from left to right. Once you are done filling in the stencil, pull it up carefully.  Allow your sign to dry completely before moving on. To get the distressed look, grab your sander with 220 grit. Simply go along the edges of your sign, being careful not to do too much. It will remove the paint that you placed at the beginning of the craft. Wipe debris clean. To seal your sign, add a layer of Minwax Fast Drying Polyurethane Clear Satin starting from the bottom of your sign. Going in lines from left to right to ensure you have complete coverage all the way up on your board. Follow directions on the can for how far to hold the can from the board.   If you wish to hang your sign, attach the hardware to the back.  How Do You Determine What Size of Wood to Use? I do not have a fancy pants answer for this. And you might even laugh at my honesty. But when I want to make a sign, I do 1 of 2  things. One option is, to find a stencil that I want to use. Then I will hunt down a piece of scrap wood that will fit nicely. The other option is if I already have a piece of scrap wood the size I want,  I stick with it. Then the hunt begins for a stencil I can add that will fit. Ha! I told you it was not a fancy pants answer. I believe in working with what you got and enjoying every minute of it.  Which Thickness Is Best When Working with Stencils? If anyone ever tries to tell you thickness doesn’t matter, they are wrong. I love to use the 7 Mil Mylar Options when I am working on a smaller project. They are sturdy enough for a limited area to stencil. But if I am stenciling a large sign, I always buy the 10 Mil Mylar Option. They are sturdy. They will last. And, they are easier to take care of so you can use them time and time again. To be honest though, if you take your time when stenciling, you can use either. Just pin this DIY Distressed Wood Signs tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 0

DIY Farm Signs

Get ready to fall in love with these DIY farm signs that are super simple and perfect for any farm decor you are going for. These DIY Farm Signs cover all the aspects of that hardworking lifestyle and adorable decor. Whatever you are, farm or city folk, these signs are perfect for that farm lifestyle you love to live. Or you are longing for in your daily life. From “Farm Sweet Farm”, “Cluck Oink Moo”, and “Tractors.” Let me be very clear with you from the beginning about farm living! It is not easy y’all! Rising early, resting late. Down and dirty from dusk to dawn. But… These DIY Farm Signs… They are NOT HARD at all! These farm-themed stencils and transfers are just the best. So with just a few supplies, some time, and my step-by-step tutorial, you can have these Farm Signs as your new decor with little effort. And I will say it again. There is not much on the farm that requires little effort. So are you ready to get to work? Make Your Own Farm DIY Signs  At first, I was a bit bummed at how thin these wood signs were when I got them in the mail. I remember being frustrated that I wasted my money. But y’all, they are so PERFECT for this DIY craft using stencils. They are so lightweight, that easily adding the hanger was not too much work at all. I love that this set of 3 signs can all be hung on one wall of my home, or throughout it. No matter where I place them, they will look good. They will keep the Farm theme and decor consistent no matter the space. That is what I want for my home. I want it to truly feel like the sign says, “Farm Sweet Farm.” Supplies: Wood Board Panels Algonquin Paint “Farm Sweet Farm” Stencil “Cluck Oink Moo” Stencil Farm Life Transfer “Tractor” Stencil Transfer Tool Master’s Touch Acrylic Paints – Black & Red Finger Daubers Sander Jute Cord Electric Drill How To Make Your Own DIY Farm Signs Grab your thin wooden boards and apply a base coat of paint. You determine the color(s) that works best for your decor. I went with a light tan because I am a neutral kind of gal. Dry completely. Use a blow dryer or heat gun to speed up the drying process. Once dry, grab your desired color(s) for your stencils by squirting on a plate.  On our first DIY Farm Sign, Apply your stencil, “Farm Sweet Farm” in place on your board. With your pouncers or finger daubers, begin to press your paint gently into your stencil. I just used black for this sign. Once complete, gently remove your stencil. Set aside to get started on your other DIY Farm Signs. Bring over your next tan/cream board to complete your 2nd DIY Farm Sign.  Determine which farm animal transfer pieces you want to add to your board – cut out your chicken, pig, and cow!  Remember to be careful to not let your transfer get ruined by touching anything with the back paper removed. Once you have created a visual representation of what you want your board to look like as a finished product, begin with your first transfer. Apply your transfer by resting in place, pressing firmly with your tool so the transfer adheres nicely.  Repeat as you stack all of your transfers on your board. I love the chicken wire accent all throughout.   To finish up, grab your stencil and with your finger daubers add those cute animal  saying sounds to add some fun to your DIY board.  Don’t be afraid to layer and have fun with it.  For your 3rd DIY Farm Sign, determine your tractor color. I chose red, but you do what you like best.  Begin to add your paint colors, determining what words you want to pop with more attention. Be extra careful since this stencil has so many tiny spots that would allow for bleeding through. Use a finger dauber to help with this! Apply that distressed look on your outer edges of the sign. Use a baby wipe to help if you add a little too much in one spot. You could even sand down those edges too if you prefer that look.  Once finished with these signs, apply a spray polyurethane to help these cute signs to have a finished look.  When dry, poke two holes into the tops of your board using a tiny drill bit.  Use craft leather cord to pop through holes. Create a hanger for these DIY Farm Signs to be displayed in your home for all to admire. What is the Difference Between a Finger Dauber and a Pouncer? I love them both so much, and they might not seem like they are different, but y’all, they are. The finger daubers are best for tiny areas to stencil. Those areas that don’t have a lot of negative space between the images or lettering are best stenciled when using a finger dauber. Projects with multiple colors being stenciled are easily accomplished with a finger dauber, as well. A pouncer is foamier and has a larger area to allow more paint coverage to be used on signs that may only need 1 color. I like to use them also to create the perfect round polka dot too for certain projects. But to be honest, sometimes I will just use what is around because that is just my style. Ha! Give them both a try…I sell both. What Paint Should I Use When Stenciling? When I am stenciling, I have always really loved to work with Master’s Touch from Hobby Lobby. It only takes 1 coat and I love how easy it is to finish a craft. But, that doesn’t mean that I don’t use other brands of acrylic paint. To be honest y’all, my crafting style is mostly, use what is around. On these boards, I actually used some old furniture paint for my base coat because it was open. No one will know what you are using, if you just use whatever it is, well. Don’t go using finger paints now… stay smart, not a smart alec. Just remember to have fun with and be creative.  Just pin this DIY Farm Signs tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 0

DIY Campfire Sign

This cute, not-so-little, DIY Campfire Sign is perfect for anyone who enjoys making memories around a campfire. So keep reading as I teach you how to make your own with this step-by-step tutorial. Are you a camper or a glamper? I go back and forth when I think of how I would classify myself. I loved growing up camping as a kid, but I do enjoy the luxurious camping that we have become accustomed to in my adulthood. And with every experience, the campfire is always my favorite part of it all! So if you consider yourself a true down and dirty camper… or a luxurious nature love glamper, you will love this project. DIY Campfire Sign Using Stencils This stencil is big and bold, much like you want your campfire to be. I love how the black wooden base really helps those letters pop. The use of multiple colors within the fire seems to really make it sizzle! I can almost smell the smoke, can’t you? Stencils are such a fun and easy way to create a DIY sign for any reason, any holiday, and any decor. And yep, camping is for sure something that should have a cute sign to represent it! Are you ready to hit the next campground, or at least craft pretending that we are? I am! This sign is one of my favorites and a top seller too! It is just so fun, so big, and so bright. Everyone loves camping. Maybe some do not enjoy the dirt and smoke, but they most assuredly love the conversations that come out around the campfire. It is always the best part. This DIY sign is perfect for anyone who loves that special experience. The best part is that you don’t need much to make this craft. Just this 1 stencil, a few colors of paint, and a large piece of wood is all it takes. You can even make this amazing sign in less time it would take you to actually build a campfire. You believe me. Let’s give it a try! Supplies: Wood Board – 1×12 or big enough to fit your large stencil Black Paint – https://flippinfurnitureshop.com/products/coal-black-fusion-paint “What Happens around the CAMPFIRE” Stencil – https://www.thestencilsmith.com/products/2357-what-happens-around-the-campfire?_pos=3&_sid=91f244522&_ss=r&variant=33619318833292&aff=6  Acrylic Paint – Master’s Touch Acrylic Paints – Dark Titanium White, mustard, tan, brown, orange, and red – https://www.hobbylobby.com/Art-Supplies/Painting-Supplies/Acrylic-Painting/Titanium-White-Master’s-Touch-Acrylic-Paint—4.1-Ounce/p/8406 Dixie Belle Satin Clear Top Coat – https://amzn.to/3wDKf8U Sander  Minwax Polyurethane Spray Steps to Make your DIY Campfire Sign Using Stencils Grab your large wooden rectangular board. Apply a coat of black paint all over your entire board. Don’t forget your sides to give a finished look. Use a blow dryer or heat gun to speed up the drying process.  Once dry, grab your desired colors for your stencils by squirting on a plate.  Lay your stencil down on your board, paying attention to the sides if you have a tight fit like me.  With your pouncers or finger daubers, begin to press your paint gently into your stencil in the desired areas you choose. I start with white. Once complete, use your mustard color to fill in the words CAMPFIRE. You can use the same pouncer or finger dauber  Next grab your tan color and mix in a bit of brown to fill in your logs and sticks on board.  To finish up our stencil, the fire is next. I layer colors of the mustard, orange, and reds to make the fire really pop. Play with placement as you add, remembering to be creative.  Brighten it up where needed by going over in spots you desire, especially on outer edges of fire. Don’t go overboard! Once you are done filling in the stencil, pull it up carefully.   If you want to add some texture detail to the sides of your sign, simply sand. Finally, spray your board with a Minwax polyurethane spray. What Colors Are Best to Start When Working with a Multi-Colored Project?  Y’all this is such a great question. I am all about working smarter, not harder. So, paint choice for me is one way to be smart from the start! I always begin with my lightest color of paint first. That way, I can reuse the same paint pouncer or finger dauber for the entire project. You know I am not wanting to go wash out that paint as I craft… ain’t nobody got time for that!   Do I Have to Use a Finger Dauber? I will be honest with y’all. I love me a good finger dauber. They are my very best friends when I stencil. I also enjoy using a pouncer too, from time to time. Although some people even use makeup sponges when they stencil. I don’t have the best of luck using those, but others do! I am here to tell you, to use whatever you have. Remember, think smarter, not harder. All that matters is that you are having fun, and you enjoy the process. Oh, and that you love the final product too! Just pin this DIY Campfire sign tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 0

Upcycle a Window Using Transfers

With a beautiful transfer sheet like this Farmers Market Truck Canvas from Prima, you just can’t go wrong when choosing to upcycle a window using transfers. Window frames are some of my favorite pieces of old furniture to decorate with. I love that they come in all different shapes. Ok, ok, mostly just squares and rectangles, but they also come in so many sizes. Big ones, small ones, medium ones, ones with and without panes. I love them all. And you know me, I hate to see anything that is old not become new, purposeful, and beautiful once again. So old windows are simply wonderful to upcycle in the easiest of ways!  Using Prima transfers is a great way to add some character and charm to an old window. Honestly though really, any transfer is a good transfer in my opinion. They take patience and sometimes a bit of practice. But, man oh man, are they worth it. Remember when I used transfers to update my hutch? I love how they are so easy yet make such a big change! How To Upcycle a Window Using Transfers I have had this transfer sheet for years and am so glad that I finally put it to good use. The vintage, farmhouse vibe, with that filigree accented text is just beautiful. I especially love how it pops on the window, thanks to a helpful trick I will happily teach you in this tutorial. So are you ready to learn the easiest way to Upcycle an old window? Do you have this transfer sheet or one you love more, that you have been dying to try out? Are you ready to get crafting, making something old become beautiful once again? If you said yes to all of these, I am so excited! Let’s get started.  Supplies: Old Window Frame with Glass Fresh Flowers Transfer – Prima Beautiful Things Transfer – Prima Sander Transfer Sheet Applicator  Scissors/Razor Blade How to Complete an Upcycled Old Window Using Using Transfers Sand the frame of your old wood window, measuring the best for your transfer size, and remove all the loose debris. Clean your glass window with windex on both sides.  Trick to help your transfer really pop is to paint a white coat on the backside of your window to allow for your transfer to easily be seen. Not necessary, but I like this step! Seal the wood window frame with Dixie Bell Satin Clear Top Coat. Dry completely. Clean up your window to remove all dirt, debris, excess just in case any more got on there.  Determine where you want to add your transfer by measuring and playing with placement to create a good visual before you start the craft. Remember to use those grid marks to help you be successful.  Once cut, carefully remove the backing, nice and slowly. Be sure that it does not touch itself, or it will be ruined.  Do your best to lay it down on your glass because once it touches, it is on. Use your Prima Tool to help you firmly press the transfer to the glass.  Slowly remove the clear film backing from your transfer. Use that backing to help burnish it a bit by rubbing all along the glass to make sure it is touching the surface everywhere. Use your finger too. Apply the middle section and bottom sections of your transfer by carefully measuring, trying your best to keep it all lined up. Trim first to help you line it up with ease. Repeat steps 9 and 10 to complete. Do not worry about sealing your transfer. Prima advises against it. You can add a little tan paint on the inside of your sides on your glass to help tie it all together. This will also help to hide any blemishes.  Since I had a bit of a gap on the bottom, I will consider adding a few other floral transfers cascading down in that open space to help finalize it all.  Where can I dispaly my upcycled window with transfers? Y’all the question should be where can’t I decorate with this beauty? This would look great in your home on an open ledge, a mantle with a tall space up above it, on a bathroom wall, with a beautiful vase with seasonal flowers, and even in a guest bedroom with a comforter accenting those pops of colors from the florals in the transfer. Just have fun wherever you put it and know that it is simply gorgeous no matter where it ends up.   Is It Easy To Stack Transfers on Top of Other Transfers? Yes! I do this all the time. Some transfers are so pretty by themselves. But when you add a little more, they become out of this world beautiful. Just remember when working with transfers, be it the first layer or the second, be careful not to let it touch anywhere. Once you have removed the backing, you better be ready to go! Trust me from experience. Once it sticks, it sticks!  Just pin this How to Complete an Upcycled Old Window Using Using Transfers tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 2

How To Revamp a Mantel Clock

Learn how to turn a mantel clock into something new. We’ll show you an easy way to revamp a mantel clock. You will be impressed, I promise. Y’all don’t you just love when you go picking through some old furniture and find a real gem? When I spotted this little, old, wooden Mantle Clock, I was so stinkin’ happy. I could totally picture it as a beauty once again. Watermarks, ugly placard on the front, and wear and tear… who cares? A makeover on this old thing was just what it needed. And I was happy to do that. And I knew it would not take much TIME at all… See what I did there?   A couple coats of paint, a stencil, and some Farmhouse style love was all it took to complete this makeover.  I love how I made this clock “Alive and Ticking” once again. Ticking in terms of cuteness – an actual battery would have to help with the literal ticking! If you are wanting this same look on an old clock, grab your supplies, and let’s go! I have the step-by-step instructions for you… but do you have the time? I love many things. My husband, my whole family, my dogs. But I can not forget my love of stencils and old furniture! Oh, I love them all. And don’t you just love how this old water-marked wooden clock can be transformed in little to no TIME? The best part of this project is how unique you can be when crafting something like this. You determine your paint color, your word to stencil, and your overall vibe. Go Farmhouse like me, or bright and Boho! It is up to you. Follow the steps below, and just be sure you are having a good TIME while doing it.  Supplies: Wooden Mantle Clock Home Stencil – “ALWAYS” Miss Lillian’s NO WAX Cholk Paint – Italian Lace (taupe/tan)  *or your choice of paint color Paintbrush Spray Paint: Bronze Black Paint Ranger Tim Holtz Distress Paint Black Soot Paint Dabbers Paint daubers Heat Gun/dryer Sanding block Spray Polyurethane  Steps to Revamp a Mantel Clock Makeover Prep your Wooden Mantle Clock by carefully removing the innards. Spray paint the circular piece that helped the clock rest back in easily that you removed from the wooden base. I used a bronze color to give it the oil rubbed effect. Apply 2 coats.  With a sanding block, rough up the wood a bit all over your mantle clock.  Wipe clean with a baby wipe to remove debris and dust. Use a heat gun or blow dryer to speed up the drying process.  Grab your desired paint color and paintbrush. Begin to cover your entire mantle clock. Don’t forget the back and bottom too. Allow time for your paint to dry completely. Use that heat gun or blow dryer. Apply 2 coats of paint to your clock. Remember to keep all of your brush strokes going the same direction. Repeat steps to dry before moving on to the next step.  Grab your desired word to stencil on your craft. I chose the term “ALWAYS.”  But you can choose what you like best. Ideas to consider: Family, gather, time, love, together, memories Lay your stencil down on the bottom section, making sure it is centered. Start applying your paint using finger daubers and gently working from top to bottom applying paint over your desired stencil area. I used a black color.  Dry again.  To pull out the detail of the edges, grab your black acrylic paint and your paint daubers. Lightly rub along the edges to help the black pop. Careful in the center around your circle, going a little heavier than on the outside.  I will stop here because it is my simple farmhouse style. But if you want to add any more detail, feel free to do so. Think flowers, ribbon, jute, etc. just be creative and have fun.   Once completely dry, apply a top coat to seal your hard work with your fast drying Minwax Spray Polyurethane.  Pop back in your clock innards when dry and determine what to pair it with on your mantle? So cute! But, hmmm. A plant? A candle? Maybe a sign? Check out this tutorial for an idea.  Why Do You Want To “Rough Up” the Wood? Roughing up the wood, with a sanding block or anything gritty, is so important for many reasons: It removes any finish that may be on your wood to begin with to give it a clean base to start It helps removes any scratches or tiny dents to give a more even surface Most importantly, it allows the new paint to adhere easily.  Can I Glaze the Face of the Clock? For this type of clock face, I would say NO. Since the face is so slick, I don’t think anything would easily adhere to it. It might be possible to add a rusting effect on there, but I think it turned out great as is. But you know me, I do enjoy a distressed look all the time, so that is a great question! Just pin this How to revamp a mantel clock tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 0

Tequila Lime and Sunshine Sign

Follow along step by step as I show you how to make the perfect tequila lime and sunshine sign to help you escape to the beach just by looking at it. We all need a little beach in our lives every once in a while, right?  Y’all. I am not a beach girl. All that sand and skin is just too much for me. But I am a beach decor kind of girl. Seashells, sunshine, and a squeeze of lime… could there be anything cuter? Well, this DIY Tequila Lime and Sunshine sign is pretty dang cute all by itself. I love how adorable this sign turned out. It is a perfect addition to my home in the summer months when I want to feel like I am getting away to the beach. The bonus is I don’t have to deal with all the sand and skin! Thank goodness. DIY Tequila Lime and Sunshine Signs  A lot of my family and friends can’t get enough of the sun and sand. They just love the beach and all it has to offer. And I love them, so making this cute sign was still fun. Although I am not a beach kind of girl, I am an all things cute kind of girl, when it comes to crafting. A simple sign, stencil, and your favorite colors of paint make this sign the perfect addition to your summer decor. This looks great in any beach house, or even your home/office when you are trying to pretend to be on a tropical island with an ocean breeze in your hair. I can’t get over the summer vibes coming from this cute DIY Tequila Lime & Sunshine sign. Picking the perfect set of paint colors to accent each other is so much fun. This stencil is so easy to put your own spin on the craft. Versatile and in style, for sure. If you are feeling extra creative, mix and match colors throughout the words of the stencil. That is why I love crafting so much. Every piece I make is so different from the one before because it can be. And no matter what, it is always cute! If for some odd reason I don’t like it, I can paint over it and start again! But that rarely happens. Just follow the steps below and have some fun! One question though. Does this sign make you want to get a cold drink, soak up some sunshine, or a little bit of both? Supplies Wooden blocks – scrap lumber of all different sizes Chalk Type paint – Mermaid Tail by Dixie Belle Tequila, Lime, & Sunshine – The Stencilsmith Dark Brown, Chrome Oxide Green, White – * Master’s Touch acrylic paint for stencils Paintbrush Paint daubers Heat Gun/dryer Sanding block Spray Polyurethane Sealer in Satin Steps: Grab your desired size piece of wood that will fit your stencil. Determine your base coat of color. I am using Mermaid by Dixie Bell.  Cover completely. Don’t forget to do the sides. It doesn’t have to be a thick coat because we can distress the boards. Set aside. Dry completely with a heat gun/dryer to speed up the process.  Touch up any spots that you may have missed. Place your Tequila, Lime, & Sunshine Stencil, thanks to The Stencil Smith, on your board. With your green and white acrylic paint mixed a bit, begin dabbing out the lime on your stencil. Use finger daubers to stencil. Makeup sponges work too. I just like finger daubers best. Hold stencil in place as you work.  On the words of your stencil, you decide your accent paint color. I grabbed a dark brown and mixed it with the green/white just to be creative. Make sure your color is still pretty dark so it stands out on that paint of your wooden sign.  But you can decide your colors. You can’t go wrong with white or blacks.  Once dry, let’s add a white wash look. Using Deco Art White Wash, lightly brush over your sign all in the same direction. This will give it a beachy vibe we all want in our lives. When finished with paint, set aside to dry. Or, use a heat gun or hair dryer to speed up the drying process.  Distress signs on the side if you like that look.  Once completely dry, apply a thin layer of Spray Polyurethane. Do this in a well ventilated area. I really like the DIxie Bell product. Let it dry.  Last but not least, enjoy your simple Tequila, Lime, and Sunshine, while  dreaming of the beach.  What paint colors should I use when crafting a beach sign? You can be as creative as you want. Beach decor is mostly in shades of blue, green, and whites. This sign would look great with a white base coat, a bright pop of green for the lime, and a dark navy blue for the words. It really would look great any way you choose. Just pin this Tequila Lime and Sunshine Sign tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 2

Craft Your Own Floral Home Sign

This floral home sign using transfers and stencils is going to be the perfect addition to your living room wall! Follow along step by step as I show you how to make your own using just a piece of wood, stencils, some paint, and a floral transfer! When you are crafting one project, are you thinking in your head of all the other projects you could be doing next? Are you picturing where you can decorate with that future project, even before you have even finished it? You may even be thinking this will make the perfect gift! That my friends are my thought every sing day. Everyday! Crafting one project just leads to inspiration for the next. These floral transfers were all the inspiration I needed for my DIY Floral Home Sign… and I got it while finishing up another project. I know I can’t be the only one who is always thinking ahead when it comes to crafting. DIY Floral Home Sign Using Transfers and Stencils Painting pieces of wood of all shapes and sizes makes me happy. Painting pieces of wood that are shaped like a house makes me even happier. Slapping a stencil on that wood with a pretty floral transfer… well, that is what you call being on CLOUD 9. Y’all. I am on Cloud 9 for sure with this craft. Using leftover pieces of a Prima Floral Transfer to make it even more special, has my heart going pitter-patter. This DIY craft using transfers is simple. It goes to show that nothing ever should go to waste. Save those old pieces of wood, no matter the shape or size. You guys it is possible to craft with the unused parts of transfers and scrapbook paper. The possibilities are endless. You can truly turn those scraps into something AMAZING!! Mix and match those paint colors to accent your home or office. This craft is just so versatile based on whatever you choose to use. Just follow the steps below and have some fun! Few questions though. Are you keeping this for yourself? Are you making one for your neighbor? What about your niece who just got married? Doesn’t she need one in her home? Supplies: Wooden sign – Preferably the shape of a home  Algonquin Fusion Mineral Paint  Masters Touch Acrylic paint   Sunflower Farms by Prima ReDesign Prima Transfer Tool HOME Stencil from the Stencilsmith Paintbrush Paint daubers Heat Gun/dryer Sanding block Spray Polyurethane  Steps: Grab your home-shaped piece of wood. Paint your wood sign covering it with a base coat, preferably chalk based paint –  color of your choosing. Don’t forget to do the sides. It doesn’t have to be a thick coat because we will distress the boards. Dry completely with a heat gun/dryer to speed up the process.  Touch up any spots that you may have missed. With your leftover piece of floral transfer, or new piece. Whatever… just get a cute floral transfer. Determine the pieces you want to use on your board by moving them around before committing. Remember to keep the backing on your transfers until you are ready to apply them to your project.  Lay your transfer down on your wood up on the rooftop. Press it down firmly using your plastic tool that came in your transfer kit. If you ever have a bubble, just carefully pull it up and try again.  With your sanding block, lightly rub the edges to remove any excess off sides of the wood sign.  Apply transfers, remembering to leave enough space for your stencil so it rests only on the wood.  Grab your HOME stencil and your finger daubers. With dark brown acrylic paint, begin to lightly tap your small amount of paint. Pushing lightly and using small amounts of paint is this trick to not having your stencils bleed through on the board.  When finished with paint, set aside to dry. Or, use a heat gun or hair dryer to speed up the drying process. If you feel your sign needs a little more, feel free to add 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. I personally am using mine as is! Last but not least, enjoy your simple DIY Floral Home Sign, anywhere you decide to put it.  Where do I find Floral Transfers? There are several places you can purchase floral transfers from. I can find some great floral transfers on Amazon but shop Prima. Prima has a great selection and I love their Floral Transfers so much. They are cute and so easy to work with. I know you will love them Wasn’t this so simple and so much fun? I think it was cute, simple, and a great way to use up those scrap pieces. Just pin this Floral Home Sign tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 0

Learn How To Apply A Transfer

Have you ever seen a really cute saying or graphic and wished you could put it on everything? Well, there’s good news: with a little bit of patience and some basic tools, you can apply transfers to basically any surface! In this how to apply a transfer tutorial I will show you how it’s done. So go find your perfect transfer, and let’s get started! When it comes to using transfers on walls, doors, or even furniture you have to make sure it is one you love. I don’t have a problem finding something I love because honestly, I love everything. I love quotes, floral designs, and even farm animals! Once you have selected the transfer you wish to use you are ready to prep your wall or door and get to adhering your transfer. Learn How To Apply Transfers You guys know I love making something old into something new by using a little paint and some transfers. This door makeover project was no different. Not that my door is old I just wanted something on it to jazz it up a little. This door is the door that leads into our garage. We pass through this door multiple times a day so I knew I wanted a saying or quote to help remind us to find joy in our day. This transfer was one I have had forever and I am so glad I remembered I had it because it is the perfect saying to read each time I enter our garage. To apply a transfer to a door it is not that hard. It really requires a lot of patience and time. With the right mindset, you can totally do this. Follow along and I will teach you some tips and tricks to applying transfers to different surfaces. Supplies: Prima ReDesign Transfers Transfer tool Sealer Painters tape Steps To Apply Transfer: Lay transfer on the area you wish to transfer to.  Use your scraper tool to go over your sheets to make sure it adheres to the area you are placing them.  Once you peel off the backing pull the wax sheet off and then rub your finger over the wording. This helps smooth out any bubbles that may have developed when applying.  If your transfer has multiple pieces just be sure you line them up correctly. Take your time and rub over the lettering once you have it in place.  The best way to get it on is using a flat edge tool.  If you have any spots that may have pulled off I just use a sharpie of that color and fill in the imperfection Go back over all the lettering with your fingers one final time to smooth out and flatten the words Tips and Tricks to Learning How To Apply Transfers You may wish to apply a sealer on the surface first. This allows your transfers to really stick to the surface better. To keep your transfer from fading if it is in direct sunlight spray a sealer over it to protect it from the sunrays. If your transfer is large you can use painters tape to hold the edges to help you apply the tranfer to the wall. Where Can Prima Design Transfers Be Applied? You are in luck because these transfers can basically be applied to any surface. I like to say the possibilities are endless. Typically you will find me applying these to furniture, walls, doors, and even kitchen cabinets. No project is too big or too small when it comes to applying these transfers. I always so if you think it will look good then go for it! Just pin this Learn How to Apply Transfers tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 0

How To Seal DIY Projects

Just finished a DIY project? Check out this tutorial to learn why and how to properly seal DIY Projects! I had such a fun time stenciling the perfect quote onto this family heirloom we have in our family now. This was my husband’s uncle’s milk jug. One day I asked my husband if he knew where we had stored this old milk jug. I knew exactly what I wanted to do with it. When he told me he had found it I was so happy! I had the perfect stencil and wanted to use it as my new front porch decor. Stenciling this milk jug was the best thing that has happened to it and now I am going to teach you to seal it! Sealing DIY Projects Are you a crafter who likes to make your own projects? If so, you know how important it is to seal them properly. Sealing your projects helps keep them looking new for longer and prevents damage from accidental spills and exposure to the elements. No matter if you are gifting these craft projects as gifts or keeping them for yourself it is important to know how and why to seal them. Check out these tips and tricks below for sealing DIY projects and ensure your hard work lasts a really long time. Supplies Needed: Paint Brush Dixie Bell Top Coat – Clear Coat in Satin I used Dixie Belle on these projects but have since transitioned to Fusion 🙂 – Fusion Tough Coate, Matte Quick Dry Polyurethane in the Can Spray Polyurethane Steps to Seal A Project: Pour some fast-drying polyurethane from your can into a bowl.  Dip your brush into the bowl of polyurethane and then start brushing your brush over the milk jug.  Make sure you cover every inch of the jug.  You will see the shine appear as you go. This makes it easy to see which areas you have not covered.  Finish off by doing the top and inside that you can reach.  Be careful if your milk jug is rusting like mine and leaking out the bottom. It is is just be sure not to get the rusty drippings on the paint brush you are using to seal your jug with. Does Polyurethane Yellow Your Craft? Yes, it will turn some things yellow but I do not typically use it on a white background. Try to avoid having a white background so you can avoid the yellowing it can cause.  Why Should Use Fast-Drying Polyurethane in A Can vs Spray? I do find that the spray can is much quicker and easier however I mostly perfer to use the one you apply with a paint brush vs. spray. Applying with a paintbrush is more accurate and you can see exactly where you are applying it. I just feel that painting it on is way better than spraying it on. You will see me using both but when time allows I will always paint the sealant on. How to determine if you should seal or not seal your project? You can debate this all day long. I typically always seal. I do this to add a glossy clear finish to my projects. However, it is always best to seal when you Modge Podge, stencil, or use transfers. It will help hold things in place and give it good protection as well as presentation.  Hope these tips and tricks help when it comes to adding the finishing touches to your DIY projects. Keep crafting and finding joy in your creativity. Just pin this How To Seal DIY Projects tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 2

Stenciling a Family Heirloom

Have a big family heirloom you’d like to have on display? Check out this easy stenciling family heirloom tutorial! You’ll see how to avoid any frustration of trying to figure out how to match your heirloom to your personal style. If you’re like me, you have a family heirloom or two that mean a lot to you. Maybe it was handed down to you from your grandparents, or maybe it’s something you made yourself and hold close to your heart. I’m going to show you how to stencil your family heirloom so you can pass it down to the next generation with love. How to Stencil A Family Heirloom  I can’t wait to get my hands on this family heirloom. It is the perfect piece to use as a focal point for our fromt porch decor and bring some new life into this old nest! Using an old Milk Jug that was my husband’s uncle that we have in our possession makes the perfect surface to stencil my favorite farmer quotes onto. With my Paul Harvey quote Stencil that says: “And on the 8th day, God looked down on his planned paradise and said, “I need a caretaker.” So God made a farmer.” I am only using the last part of this quote to apply to the milk jug. Keep watching and see exactly how you stencil a family heirloom into your next front porch decor. Supplies Old Rusty Milk Can Paul Harvey Saying Stencil – Unable to get this stencil due to copyright. 🙁 Tape Acrylic Paint Dauber Polyurethane Sanding Block Directions Clean off milk jug and sand with a sanding block. Place Stencil down on milk jug. Then tape down edges so it doesn’t move. Start applying your paint over the stencil lettering using your dauber. Since it is taped down you won’t be able to see what your outcome is. However, you can always tape it back down and go over it if you see some letters need more paint added. Remove your tape, and slowly pull up the stencil. Now if any letters need to more paint then redo those areas. This will help those letters really pop.   Lastly, seal with a polyurethane spray. What is a Family Heirloom? Think of something that you remember seeing as a child in your grandmother’s house or even your own parents’ home that came from their grandparents. These are considered heirlooms when they are passed down from generation to generation. They necessarily don’t have great value they just hold memories of that special relative that passed it down.  How Can Family Heirlooms Fit Into Your Home Decor Style? This piece I stenciled is a perfect example of how to get family heirlooms to fit into your own home decor style. I took an old milk jug and stenciled a quote on it that fit my home. You could do that same thing with really any antique piece or family heirloom. Think of how you can incorporate the piece into your everyday style. You can use stencils, IOD transfers, or even stains.  What are Good Family Heirlooms? When considering if something would be a good family heirloom think of items that can stay in a family for decades. If you are wanting to make sure your family has a few heirloom items to pass down here are a few heirloom items to start in your family: Clocks Tools Letters Furniture Jewelry  Just pin this Stenciling a Family Heirloom tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 0

Make Your Own Tissue Paper and Stencil Sign Decor

Learn how to make a sign from tissue paper and a stencil. This is an easy project that you can complete in less than 20 minutes. It makes for great wall decor! Do you want to add some character to your walls? Using just a stencil, tissue, and paint, it’s easy! Here is a step-by-step tutorial on how to make a sign from tissue paper and a stencil. This makes the perfect DIY wall decor for a wall in your home. How To Make Your Own Sign Using Tissue Paper and Stencil I am really good at making old furniture look pretty again. That is my passion and what I just love spending my time doing. However, today I found this buffet cabinet door and thought this would be a great piece to make a new wall decor with it. I had the perfect stencil to use and got to work. I mean who doesn’t need a cute reminder these days to wash your hands! That seems to be the last two years’ motto. Supplies Old Buffet Door Tissue Paper Mod Podge Paint Brush Sanding Block Jesus & Germs Stencil Painters Tape Black Paint Daubers Steps To Make A Tissue Paper and Stencil Sign: Start by putting a nice layer of Modge Podge on your old buffet door. Use a paintbrush to apply it onto the flat surface.  Next, lay your tissue paper down start on the edge, and push it flat over the door as you push it flat.  Now go around and smooth out the surface with your hands. You can use a squeeze but it may be too rough and tear it.  Grabbing your heat gun or blow dryer. This will help speed up the drying process. Make sure you really dry those sides. Sand the excess tissue paper with a sanding block. Be very careful going over the edge. Continue this process until you have worked your way around all the sides.  Now it is time to use your stencil and stencil onto the tissue paper you just applied. Using your pouncer and black paint start applying over the letters.  Work your way down your stencil. Then lift up and check to make sure you don’t need to go back over any sections. If you see some areas that need more paint use your pouncer and go back over some letters.  Using your pouncer go around the outside edge of your board and give it a little distressed look. Now that you know how to make your own it’s time for the fun part. Where will this new wall decor go in your home? I recommend putting it somewhere where everyone can see and enjoy it! You could even use this sign to gift to someone who perhaps just bought a new home. Even if it isn’t this specific stencil this technique with any stencil would be a great gift. What to Use To Stencil a Sign I have stenciled a lot of signs over the years. I’ve used paintbrushes and pouncers, but the best way to get those perfect coverage is with finger daubers! Dipping the daubers in paint first and then pouncing them over the letters of the stencils. The best thing about stencils is that they can be reused. Once you are done just be sure to give your stencil a nice clean with soap and water. Let it dry and you are ready for the next craft! Just pin this Tissue Paper and Stencil Sign tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 0

Make Your Own DIY Farmhouse Decor

Y’all I am loving this DIY Farmhouse decor sign. It is one of my favorite wooden signs I’ve done recently! It hangs in my kitchen now like it was made for it! Having this blessed wooden sign with a wreath on my walls just squeals farmhouse decor to me. That is why I love it so much. Since our house is an old farmhouse dated back to 1902. I think it fits perfectly. With just a scrap piece of wood, a stencil, and a wreath I was able to create this fabulous look. If you are wanting this same look grab your supplies below and let’s get started. To see exactly how I did this in thirty minutes or less check out the tutorial below. Make your own Blessed Wooden Sign The best thing about stencils and I have said this more than once is you get to make your own wall decor exactly how you want it! You get to pick your wood base color, your text color, and your embellishments. Making this wooden blessed sign with my own supplies instead of buying one helped me get exactly what I was wanting to hang in my kitchen. You too can make your own decorations to match your style by following these simple steps below. Supplies: Blessed Stencil Dixie Belle ‘Caviar’ Paint – Paint Daubers Striped Ribbon Minwax Polyurethane Spray Wooden Board Hot Glue Gun Heat gun How to Make a Wooden Blessed Sign Using a piece of board painted black or anything you have around your home that you know would work. Lay your stencil down close to the bottom edge so you can leave room for your wreath you will add later. Start applying your paint using your finger daubers and gently working from top to bottom applying paint over your stencil. I used an off white color. Once you are done filling in the stencil pull it up and spray with a miniwax polyurethane spray. Allow time for your paint dry before moving on to the next steps. You could also speed up the process by using a heat gun. Now time to attach your wreath above your stenciled letters. To attach the green wreath use ribbon and start by tieing ribbon to the top of wreath in a knot. Pull wreath up until hanging just above the word Blessed. You will dropping the ribbon over the top. Pull until you have it in the right place. Staple the excess ribbon to back of wooden sign to hold it in place. Make a little bow and hot glue to top right of wreath. How Do You Stencil Without Smearing? There are a few tips and tricks I use to help keep from smearing when using a stencil and they are: Do not put too much paint on your dauber Use painters tape to secure your stencil, that way it doens’t move on you Let the paint dry as you work Do not brush from side to side work from up and down. This means daub from top to bottom not left to right! Do you let the paint dry before removing the stencil from the board? No, you do not have to let the paint completely dry before removing the stencil from the wooden board. However, I do suggest you work slowly as you add paint to each letter and that will help allow the paint to dry some before you have to remove your stencil. Just pin this Blessed Wooden Sign tutorial below to find the instructions later!

Tammy Huls 1