Our favorite DIY gal Kristen, of Boards & Bottle, is back with a creative autumn-themed redwood DIY! This month she worked with us to create a fun and festive redwood framed “Fresh Pumpkins” sign!
The warmth and natural beauty of redwood is perfect any time of year. When used to create an adorable farmhouse-style DIY fall sign, redwood becomes an ideal piece of home décor. You may enjoy the end result so much that you decide to keep it on display all year round.
To get started, you will need:
- Redwood B Grade Heart board, 5/8 x 5 5/8 x 8ft
- ¼ thick plywood sheet (these are often sold in 2×2 or 2×4 sizes)
- 220 grit sandpaper
- Acrylic paint and a foam brush
- Pumpkin stencil (or any design of your choosing)
- Protective varnish of your choice
Tools used for this project:
- Miter and table saw
- Hand sander
- Brad nailer gun
When working with tools, please be sure to wear the appropriate safety gear.
Step 1: Cut your plywood down to 14×20’’ using your table saw.
Step 2: Use the 220 grit sandpaper to eliminate any surface roughness. This will help
the paint adhere to the board. Remove dust with a cloth.n
Step 3: Using the foam brush,n apply your background color. For this project Kristen chose a white acrylic paint, to help the stencil design pop against the background.
Step 4: While the plywood sheet dries, it is time to begin cutting the redwood frame. Using a miter saw, measure out two 17 ¾ inch pieces for the top and bottom pieces, and two 12 ½ inch for the sides of the frame. Rotate the miter saw blade to cut each end of the redwood pieces at a 45-degree angle.
Step 5: Sand each piece of redwood until smooth, using the 220 grit paper. Dust to remove excess debris.
Step 6: To showcase Redwood’s gorgeous natural patina, Kirsten applied a stain to the frame pieces. To create a rustic farmhouse finish, she lightly sanded the frame with 220 grit again after staining.
Step 7: To assemble your frame, arrange your frame pieces and apply a thin layer of wood glue where the edges will meet. Press the pieces together and let rest for 10-15 minutes to set. Then, using the brad nailer, align the angled pieces together and attach the frame to the now dry background board, securely stapling the frame together, and the frame to the board.
Step 8: Now it’s time to add your stencil! Using transfer tape, apply your design to the painted background board. Gently peel back the sticky side of the transfer tape, and apply over your stencil design, making sure to smooth out any bubbles. Remove from backing and place on board. Smooth out any bubbles again and remove transfer tape. Now the stencil is applied to the board.
Step 9: Using acrylic paint and a foam brush, lightly fill in your stencil. Kristen chose traditional farmhouse neutrals to provide a lovely contrast against the natural warmth and beauty of the redwood. Once dry, you’re ready to remove your stencil and apply your protective varnish! Apply the protective varnish according ton directions.
Congratulations! You now have a beautiful and festive, farmhouse-style redwood piece!
Tip: There are many options when it comes to protecting your board. Make sure you select a topcoat that is best suited to where you will be displaying your board, for example indoor/outdoor as well as spray-on or paint application.n We chose a spray-on application with a matte finish to accentuate the fine characteristics and natural grain of the wood. Make sure to work in a properly ventilated area, wear a mask, and remember to protect all surrounding surfaces.
