DIY & Crafts
Weekend DIY: These tree-stump prints are so easy to make
Photography by Sian Richards
DIY & Crafts
Weekend DIY: These tree-stump prints are so easy to make
Tree-trump relief prints are a modern (and zero-maintenance!) way to bring the outdoors in.
Take a walk in the forest to find a dead log, or ask your local arbourist or garden centre for scraps. This project works best with dry wood, so allow plenty of drying time, if necessary, before starting. Once the wood no longer looks damp and is dry to the touch, it’s ready.
MATERIALS:
- Log
- Orbit sander
- Safety goggles
- Propane blowtorch
- Nailbrush
- Cloth
- Paintbrush
- Black acrylic craft paint
- 160-gram mixed-media paper
- Rubber brayer
- Scissors
- Picture frame
- Pencil
1. Using the sander, sand the top of the log to remove any cut marks left by a saw.
2. Outside, wearing goggles and using the blowtorch, char off the top layer of the log to reveal the natural grain and any cracks.
3. Once it’s cool, scrape the log with the nailbrush to remove the burned layer. Wipe it clean with the cloth. Using the paintbrush, paint the log with a generous amount of paint until it’s completely coated.
4. Place the paper on the painted end of the log. Using the brayer and your fingertips, smooth the paper over the surface. Holding the paper at two corners and peeling from one side to the other, carefully remove. Allow the print to dry.
5. Using the scissors, cut the paper to size and place it in the frame. Tip: To cut it to the right dimensions, use the mat as a guide. Lay the paper over the mat. Using the pencil, trace the mat, trim the paper.
OUTSIDE CHANCE
Three more nature-inspired crafts.
Branch manager
Collect small branches on a forest walk, then have each family member decorate one with bright shades of acrylic paint. Display in a basket or a vase.
Turn a new leaf
Transform a plain white pillow with fabric paint and a leaf. Simply paint the leaf and stamp it onto an empty pillow cover. Try using black for a modern feel or gold for a luxe look.
Photography by Sian Richards
Photo finish
Create a unique display of treasured photos with driftwood, string, mini clips and snapshots. Include a quote for an inspirational touch.
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