As a mom of two young children, I often find it difficult to spend time on my hobbies. Here’s a bit of advice I heard a while ago:

In a response to the question, “how do you find time for your hobbies?” Scott Hanselman answered, “I incorporate my children into my hobbies.”

It’s a really great piece of advice and I’ve taken it to heart. Whenever it’s safe, I have my children in the shop. My oldest is mildly interested in woodworking. We started attending the Kids Workshops at Home Depot and he loves his creations. One thing I’ve observed is he could use a little more practice with using a hammer and nails. So I thought of a create little exercise: a scrap wood porcupine!

(For sneak peeks on upcoming projects follow me on Instagram!)

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.  That means if you purchase an item via one of these links, I’ll receive a small commission at no added cost to you.  This helps keep the content on the site free and I appreciate the support! :o)

TOOLS AND SUPPLIES

Here is some of the tools and supplies for the scrap wood porcupine:

• Scrap piece of 4×4 wood
• 2″ nails
• Hammer (I bought this small for my son. Fits well in his hands)
• Markers (For decorations)

How to make a scrap wood porcupine

The scrap wood porcupine is a great exercise for practicing hammer control. I gave my son a hammer and a bunch of nails and let him have at it.

I did give him a brief lesson on how to use the tool and he really enjoyed the project.

The post Scrap Wood Porcupine | Kids Woodworking Project appeared first on Handmade with Ashley.

Hello everyone, today I’m sharing how I made a set of chevron wooden coasters. This is a nice little scrap wood project that can be completed within a weekend.

(For sneak peeks on upcoming projects follow me on Instagram!)

RELATED POSTS:

• How to make resin coffee bean coasters
• How to make a chevron cutting board

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.  That means if you purchase an item via one of these links, I’ll receive a small commission at no added cost to you.  This helps keep the content on the site free and I appreciate the support! :o)

Tools and Supplies

The following items are some of the tools and supplies I gathered to created the chevron cutting board.

Tools

• Table saw
• Micro Jig GRR-RIPPER (A personal table saw must have)
• Planer
• Clamps
• Orbital Sander
• Router with 45 degree chamfer Router Bit

Supplies

• Wood Glue
• Red oak scraps
• Howard Butcher Block Conditioner

How to make Wooden Chevron Drink Coasters

This was a fun scrap wood project. I started it back in November with hopes of gifting it to someone as a Christmas present, but things got in the way of me completing the project. The dimensions of the coasters are roughly 4″ x 4″.

Here’s how I made them.

Step 1: Rip scraps into 3/4″ strips

Rip the scrap wood into 3/4″ wide strips on the table saw. I used 5 pieces of wood for my coasters. 

Step 2: Glue up the 3/4″ strips

Apply wood glue to the edges of the strips and clamp the pieces together. Allow the glue to completely cure before moving onto the next step.

Step 3: Clean up the glue up

Remove the excess dried glue. Use a scraper to remove any large chunk and a planer to quickly clean up the surface.

If you don’t own a planer, a belt sander is a good alternative. Just take care to remove the material evenly.

Step 4: Crosscut the glue up

Set the miter gauge on the table saw to 45 degrees and cross cut the glue up.

Step 5: Final glue up

Take the pieces created from the previous step and glue them together. Allow the glue to completely cure before moving onto the next step.

Step 6: Clean up the glue up, again

Remove the excess dried glue a second time. Use a scraper to remove any large chunks. Running the coaster through the planer is a not a good idea at this point so use a belt sander (or drum sander) to make quick work of cleaning up the surface of the coasters.

Step 7: Trim up the ends

Carefully cut off the jagged ends of the coasters on the table saw. Before you make the second cut, make sure the coaster will be square.

Step 8: Route the edges of the coasters

Add a nice touch to the coasters by using a router with a 45 degree chamfer to route along the top and bottom edge of each coaster.

View this post on Instagram

I have several unfinished projects that I want to complete before starting anything new. So here’s unfinished project 1 of 10 (possibly more). This is a set of chevron coasters. I made it from red oak scraps. I started this back in November. Anyways, I just need to sand and apply a finish and then it will be done! . All my in progress projects are making it difficult to maneuver around the shop so the time has come to either toss them or finish them. . #chevron #chevronpattern herringbone #herringbonepattern #woodencoaster #scrapwoodproject #woodwork #woodworker #woodworking #unfinishedproject

A post shared by Ashley Grenon | Geeky Maker (@handmadewithashley) on Jan 31, 2019 at 9:29am PST

Step 9: Sand and apply a finish

Cycle through the appropriate grits of sandpaper (80 – 220) with a orbital sander.

Once the sanding is complete, apply a finish. I used a food safe finish, Howard Butcher Block Conditioner.  

Step 10: Enjoy!

DIY Wooden Chevron Drink Coasters

I’m really happy with how the chevron coasters came out and I love that I reduced my scrap wood collection in the process too!

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How to make 8-bit Zelda Pixel Art

Hello everyone, today I’m sharing how to make 8-bit pixel Link from the original The Legend of Zelda game. I created this project for February’s Art of Geek Challenge. The theme for the month is The Legend Of Zelda.

CLICK HERE to view more geeky and nerdy DIY projects.

Related Posts:

• 8-bit Blooper (Super Mario Bros.)
• 8-bit Goomba (Super Mario Bros.)
• 8-bit End Grain Goomba (Super Mario Bros.)
• 8-bit Link (The Legend of Zelda)
• 8-bit Cheep Cheep (Super Mario Bros.)
• 8-bit Lakitu and Koopa Troopa (Super Mario Bros)
• 8-bit Mario (Super Mario Bros.)

(For sneak peeks on upcoming projects follow me on Instagram!)

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.  That means if you purchase an item via one of these links, I’ll receive a small commission at no added cost to you.  This helps keep the content on the site free and I appreciate the support! :o)

Tools and Supplies

I used the following tools and supplies to create pixel Link.

Tools

• Jigsaw
• Orbital Sander
• Router with 60 degree v-groove bit
• Clamp edge guide
• Kreg Mobile Project Center
• Ruler

Supplies

• 2′ x 2′ plywood – 1/2″ thick
• Acrylic craft paints (green, brown and khaki)
• Primer spray paint
• Clear coat
• Sand paper

Watch the video tutorial

Click play and watch the video tutorial below. For more woodworking videos, CLICK HERE to subscribe to my YouTube channel.

Continue reading for the written tutorial.

How to make 8-bit pixel Link in 5 easy steps

1. 1. Draw 1.5″ grid lines
   2. Route along the grid lines
   3. Cut out Link’s silhouette
   4. Prep Pixel Link for painting
   5. Paint Pixel Link

Step 1: Draw 1.5″ grid lines

Use a ruler to mark grid lines space 1.5″ apart.

Step 2: Route along the grid lines

Install a v-groove router bit and route along the grid lines. Use a clamp edge guide to ensure straight lines.

V Grooves routed and ready for the next step

Step 3: Cut out Link’s silhouette

Cut out the Link’s shape with a jigsaw.

Pixel Link’s silhouette

Step 4: Prep Pixel Link for painting

Sand between the grooves and sand the surface of Link.  I use scrap piece of wood to support the sandpaper as I sanded between the grooves.

Step 5: Paint Pixel Link

Paint each pixel on Link. Painting between the grooves is a little tricky. Use painters tape to maintain clean lines. I was impatient and used paint brushes for painting miniatures to paint in the crevices.

If necessary, apply multiple layers of paint. Once the paint is dried, protect the finish with a clear coat.

Painting pixels on Link with Delta Ceramcoat Acrylic craft paints

DIY 8-Bit Pixel Link

I am really happy with how pixel Link turned out. The process of creating him was less tedious than my pixel Mario build.  Painting the pixels required more work, but the extra work involved there pales in comparison to the work I avoided by using a piece of plywood.

8-bit pixel Link wall art from the original The Legend of Zelda

The Legend of Zelda 8-bit pixel art

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A step by step DIY tutorial on how to make 8-bit pixel Link from the original The Legend of Zelda on the classic Nintendo Entertainment System (NES). Display this wall art in your game room and enjoy the 8-bit nostalgia.

I’m linking up to:

• Remodelaholic

The post The Legend of Zelda 8-bit Pixel Art | How to Make 8-bit Link appeared first on Handmade with Ashley.

DIY LEGO Valentines

Hello everyone, today I’m sharing details on my latest project: homemade LEGO Valentines! My friend Sarah over at The Created Home recently shared a tutorial for the most adorable thing ever: heart shaped LEGO Valentines. As soon as I saw the project I knew it was the one.  This post is less of a tutorial and more of a sharing of work in progress photos I took while putting together the Valentines. For complete details on how to make the LEGO Valentines, be sure to check out Sarah’s tutorial!

16 Homemade LEGO Valentines

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.  That means if you purchase an item via one of these links, I’ll receive a small commission at no added cost to you.  This helps keep the content on the site free and I appreciate the support! :o)

Tools and Supplies

The following items are some of the tools and supplies I gathered to make the LEGO Valentines. For a complete list of everything you’ll need, visit the original tutorial here.

Tools

• Bandsaw
• Table saw
• Router with 1/4″ round over router bit
• Orbital sander

Supplies

• 1 Bag of 1000 Brick pieces
• 10 pack of 16 x 16 dots base plates
• Clear sticker paper
• Velcro squares with sticky back

I made 16 LEGO Valentines and was left with a TON of leftovers. I probably could have made another 16 with the remaining supplies. I had considered buying the bag of 500 pieces but I was worried I might run short on colors.

I bought the clear sticker paper and velcro at my local Michaels.

DIY LEGO Valentines

Here are a few work in progress photos I took while making the LEGO Valentines:

Cutting LEGO base plates on the bandsaw

The only point where I deviated from the original tutorial was adding a round over to the edges of the wooden blocks. I rounded over each side. In hindsight I wish I did not round over the bottom edge. The round over on the bottom edge makes the blocks more prone to falling over.

My scrap wood hoarding paid off today. I put a small dent in my scrap wood pile. I’m getting close to finishing up the little Lego Valentines. Rounding over the edges to the blocks. Next step: sanding! . #router #routing #roundover #scrapwood #rockler #benchcookies #scrapwoodhoarder #kreg #kregmobileprojectcenter #mobileprojectcenter #makita #makitatools #wood #woodworker #woodworking #woodwork #dowoodworking #mfpbehindthescenes #timelapse #maker #makeallthethings #makersgonnamake #legovalentine #crafts #diy #garageshop #alabama #sawdust #sawdustsaturday

A post shared by Ashley Grenon | Geeky Maker (@handmadewithashley) on Feb 10, 2018 at 3:58pm PST

Wooden blocks sanded and ready for velcro and stickers!

I was a little worried about how the clear sticker paper would work with my laser printer, but it printed on the material just fine. I forgot to bump up the settings. My printer is defaulted to print in toner save mode so the text is not as crisp as it could have been.

I am very pleased with how the little LEGO Valentines turned out. <3 Special thanks to Sarah at The Created Home for the idea and tutorial!

DIY LEGO Valentines

The post DIY LEGO Valentines appeared first on Handmade with Ashley.

DIY Wooden Snowman | Half-Hour Holiday Challenge

Hi everyone! Today I’m sharing steps on how to make a cute little wooden snowman. This is an easy DIY project that you can complete in one evening.

Half-Hour Holiday Challenge

I created the snowman for a half-hour holiday challenge with a few fellow bloggers. For the challenge, each blogger created a holiday themed project within 30 minutes. The 30 minutes does not include drying time, just actual time actively working on the project. Check out their half-hour projects below:

• Rustic DIY Christmas Village (Saws on Skates)
• Adult Advent Calendar (Charleston Crafted)
• Mason Jar Floral Arrange (Mother Daughter Projects)
• Christmas Card Display (100 Things 2 Do)
• DIY Customizable Rustic Wooden Advent Calendar (Hazel & Gold Designs)

Also, you can check out all our WIP photos and join in on that challenge on Instagram with the hashtag #halfhourholiday.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.  That means if you purchase an item via one of these links, I’ll receive a small commission at no added cost to you.  This helps keep the content on the site free and I appreciate the support! :o)

Tools and Supplies

To create the snowman I used the following tools and supplies:

Tools

• Bandsaw
• Drill press with drill bits
• Scissors
• Paint brush

Supplies

• Acrylic craft paints (black, white, orange)
• Super glue
• Wooden branches (approximately 3″ and 4″ in diameter)
• Small wooden dowel
• Twigs (2)
• Yarn (optional for the snowman’s scarf)

If you don’t have access to suitable branches or if you’d rather skip the step of slicing the branches you can purchase wooden slices online.

How to make a wooden snowman

How to make a wooden snowman in 5 easy steps.

Step 1: Cut the branches into 1/2″ thick slices

I sliced the branches on my bandsaw. I whipped up a quick jig to safely cut the branches. You can skip this step and purchase pre-sliced branches.

The basic jig worked well, not too small. Slicing the branches really made me wish I had a larger table on my bandsaw. Especially for the longer ones. #onedayillupgrade . #halfhourholiday #woodslice #logcookie #logcookies #cherry #cherrylog #cherrybranch #wood #hardwood #woodworking #woodwork #dowoodworking #maker #makersgonnamake #makeallthethings #woodworker #garage #garageshop

A post shared by Ashley Grenon | Geeky Maker (@handmadewithashley) on Nov 12, 2017 at 7:08pm PST

If you are only making one snowman, you’ll need 2 large slices (snowman’s base + abdomen) and 1 smaller slice (snowman’s head).

Step 2: Drill holes for assembling the snowman and for the snowman’s arms

1. Drill a hole in the snowman’s base.
2. Drill a hole at the top and bottom on the snowman’s abdomen
3. Drill holes for the snowman’s arms on the abdomen
4. Drill a hole on the snowman’s head

Drilling holes for the snowman

Step 3: Paint the snowman

Give the snowman’s head and abdomen a base coat of white paint. Allow it to dry before painting a face and additional decorations.

Painting the snowman

Step 4: Assemble the snowman

To assemble the snowman, use a wooden dowel (cut to size) coated with glue and insert the dowel into the hole in the base and the hole in the abdomen.  Repeat this for the head.

Tiny wooden dowels

Assembling the wooden snowman

Glue twigs into the additional holes in the abdomen for the snowman’s arms.

Twigs clipped from a brush in the yard

Step 5: Create a scarf for the snowman (optional)

To give the snowman a more festive look, cut 3 strands of yarn. Double the strands and braid them together. Attach the scarf to the snowman and use glue to secure it.

DIY Wooden Snowman

If you create a wooden snowman, please leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram @handmadewithashley or Twitter @handmadewithash.   I’d love to see your pictures!

DIY Wooden Snowman | Half-Hour Holiday Challenge

The post DIY Wooden Snowman | Half-Hour Holiday Challenge appeared first on Handmade with Ashley.

DIY Junior Loft Bed (Plans by Ana White)

I assisted a friend in building a loft bed for her daughter.  We followed free plans by Ana White for the junior loft bed. We made a few modifications such as changing it to fit a full-sized mattress (more details down below). The loft bed is the largest furniture item that I have built thus far. I have learned a lot from working on the project. In this post, I’ll share the steps we took to build it.

CLICK HERE to view more DIY furniture projects.

(For sneak peeks on upcoming projects follow me on Facebook and Instagram!)

Homemade junior loft bed

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.  That means if you purchase an item via one of these links, I’ll receive a small commission at no added cost to you.  This helps keep the content on the site free and I appreciate the support! :o) For more details read my disclosure policy.

Tools and Materials

The following items are some of the tools and supplies we gathered to build the junior loft bed.  For a complete listing of what is needed to build the loft bed check out Ana White’s free plan.

Tools

• Circular saw
• Kreg Jig
• Kreg Mobile Project Center (I love this workbench)
• Clamps
• Belt sander
• Orbital sander
• Drill / Driver

Materials

• Bed rail brackets (knockdown hardware)
• Pocket hole screws
• Behr White paint

How to build a Loft Bed

Continue reading for in progress photos, modifications to the original plans and lessons learned from building the junior loft bed.

3 Modifications to the original plan

1. The biggest modification made to the original loft bed plans was adjusting the size to fit a full-sized mattress instead of the twin mattress. In addition to increasing the length of the bed, we added a 2×6 board to the middle of the bed for extra mattress support.
2. The other major modification we made was using knockdown hardware instead of pocket hole joints for connecting the bed together.  We wanted this bed to be something that could be assembled and disassembled easily because the bed was built at my home but needed to be transported to another.
3. The final modification made to the project was using 4×4 posts instead of 2×4 posts. This added additional stability to the bed.

Building the loft bed

We used pocket hole joinery to bed most of the bed. I used the Kreg Jig K5 to create the pocket holes. For the bed rails and mattress support, we used bed rail brackets.  I purchased 6 pairs of bed rail brackets as well as a bracket for the center mattress support board. The center support is a 2×6 board cut the same length as the bed rails. This board was not included in the original plans. We added it to support the additional weight of the full-sized mattress.

Building the junior loft bed with a mixture of pocket hole joinery with the Kreg Jig and knockdown hardware with the bed rail brackets.

We painted the bed with white paint and sealed with a satin finish. We used a paint roller. (I think we regretted not using a paint sprayer.)

Painting the junior loft bed with white paint

The kid approved of the new bed.

(The stairs were completed after the bed was delivered to the home. Originally we used nails to hold the steps in place.  This did not hold up for long and screws were used to secure the steps.)

Homemade junior loft bed

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DIY Junior Loft Bed | Free Woodworking Plans by ANA WHITE

The post DIY Loft Bed (Plans by Ana White) appeared first on Handmade with Ashley.

A step by step DIY tutorial on how to make a super-sized pixel Mario. Display this wall art in your game room and enjoy the 8-bit nostalgia.

I love it when I can combine woodworking and geeky things. Today I’m sharing how to build a giant Mario pixel wall art. This was a really fun (and really tedious) project that I created for the Modern Makers Podcast’s Two 2×4 Challenge. The objective of the challenge was to create something using 70% of two 2×4 boards. The classic Super Mario Bros was my introduction to video games, and thus 8-bit Mario will always have a special place in heart. <3

CLICK HERE to view more geeky and nerdy DIY projects.

Related Posts:

• 8-bit Blooper (Super Mario Bros.)
• 8-bit Goomba (Super Mario Bros.)
• 8-bit End Grain Goomba (Super Mario Bros.)
• 8-bit Link (The Legend of Zelda)
• 8-bit Cheep Cheep (Super Mario Bros.)
• 8-bit Lakitu and Koopa Troopa (Super Mario Bros)
• 8-bit Mario (Super Mario Bros.)

(For sneak peeks on upcoming projects follow me on Facebook and Instagram!)

DIY Pixel Mario | Me holding the giant pixel Mario! He’s huge!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.  That means if you purchase an item via one of these links, I’ll receive a small commission at no added cost to you.  This helps keep the content on the site free and I appreciate the support! :o)

Tools and Supplies

I used the following tools and supplies to create the giant pixel Mario:

Tools

• Table Saw
• 14″ Bandsaw equipped with the Wood Slicer Resaw blade
• Planer
• Jointer
• Router with a 45 degree chamfer
• Bench cookies
• Sander
• Brad Nailer
• FeatherDuo (This is a handy tool)
• Microjig Grr-Ripper (This is also a really handy tool)

Supplies

• 2×4 – 8′ (2) or 1×4 – 8′ (4)
• Red food coloring
• Rubbing Alcohol
• Light brown wood stain (Watco Danish Oil – Medium Walnut)
• Dark brown wood stain (ECOS Paints Woodshield – Special Walnut)
• CA Glue (I used DAP Rapid Fuse Wood Adhesive. This stuff is legit.)
• Wood glue

WATCH THE VIDEO TUTORIAL

Click play and watch the video tutorial below. For more woodworking videos, CLICK HERE to subscribe to my YouTube channel.

Continue reading for the written tutorial.

How To Build A Giant Pixel Mario in 10 Easy Steps

1. Resaw the 2x4s
2. Square the boards
3. Rips boards to 2″ wide strips
4. Route the edges of the strips
5. Cut the strips into 2″ squares
6. Route each edge of each square
7. Sand
8. Stain, paint or dye the squares
9. Assemble Mario
10. Add Additional Support

Before starting the project, I took a look at several pictures of 8-bit Mario.  Once I selected the version I liked the most, I counted the number of pixels per color.

8 bit Mario

For Mario in resting position, you’ll need the following number of pixels:

• 45 red
• 54 dark brown
• 44 tan

Step 1: Resaw the 2x4s

Cut each 2×4 in half and resaw boards on the bandsaw. The goal here is to stretch the 2x4s by turning them into 1x4s. (Or you can skip this step and just buy 1×4 boards.)

I used the FeatherDuo to keep steady pressure as I resawed the 2x4s. It’s a really handy tool.  I can’t recommend it enough.  Watch it in action below:

I’m making a mess instead of cleaning the garage but I thought of an idea for the @modernmakerpodcast #two2x4challenge. Resawing two 2x4s! . #resaw #resawing #bandsaw #grizzlybandsaw #featherduo #featherpro #bowproducts #woodslicer #2×4 #scrapwood #woodworking #dowoodworking #woodwork #diy #huntsville #makersgonnamake #buildersgonnabuild #maker #alabama #garage #garageshop #ishouldbecleaning @thefeatherpro

A post shared by Ashley Grenon (@handmadewithashley) on May 13, 2017 at 10:02am PDT

Step 2: Square the boards

Alignment is critical. You want to ensure the boards are square on each side.  Start with a jointer and flatten one face, followed by an edge. Move to the planer to flatten another face and mill all the boards down to the same thickness.

Step 3: Rip boards to 2″ wide

On the table saw rip the boards down to 2″ strips. Save the leftovers. You will need them later.

1x4s ripped into 2″ wide strips

Step 4: Route the edges of the 2″ strips

Equip a router with a 45 degree chamfer bit. Route the along the edges of the strips.  (I waited until after I cut the strips into individual squares to begin routing. I don’t recommend that.)

Step 5: Cut the strips into 2″ squares

Cut each strip into 2″ squares.

Lots of 2″ squares

Step 6: Route each edge of each square

Equip a router with a 45 degree chamfer bit. Route along the remaining two sides of each square.  I placed each square on top of a bench cookie as I was routing.  This eliminated the need to clamp each square in place.

Rockler bench cookie

Routing the edges with a 45 degree chamfer router bit

Step 7: Sand

Sand each square to prep it for a finish.

Step 8: Stain, paint or dye the squares

I used a mixture of dyes and stains to color the squares. For the red squares, I created a dye from red food color and rubbing alcohol. The tan squares were stained with Watco Danish Oil in Medium Walnut. The dark brown squares were stained with ECOS Paints WoodShield stain in Special Walnut.

Step 9: Assemble Mario

Glue each square together to form Mario.  Use a straight edge to ensure proper alignment. I used DAP Rapid Fuse Wood Adhesive (and when I ran out of that I used the All Purpose version).

Step 10: Add additional support

For added support and durability, strengthen the backside of Mario with the leftover strips from ripping the 1×4 boards. Cut the strips to size and install with wood glue and nails.

Step 11: Enjoy!

Install hanging hardware or lean it against a wall and enjoy the fruits of your hard labor.

I’m done! Whew! Mario is a little larger than I thought he’d be. This is my entry for @modernmakerpodcast #two2x4challenge. Here’s a rough outline of my steps for the project (in the near future I’ll write a tutorial and maybe upload a video): 1. Resaw 2x4s in half 2. Make the boards square on a jointer and planer 3. Rip board into 2″ strips 4. Cut strips into 2″ squares 5. Add a 45 degree chamfer to each square 6. Stain the wood (I used @ecospaints Woodshield in Special Walnut for the dark brown, Watco Medium Walnut for the light brown and a made a red stain from food coloring and rubbing alcohol.) 7. Glue up the pixels with @dapproducts rapid fuse adhesive 8. Used remaining strips of wood for added support on the back side. It was a long and tedious process, but I’m really happy with how it turned out! . #pixel #pixelart #supermario #supermariobros #mario #2×4 #makersgonnamake #makeallthethings #diyhalloffame #woodworker #wood #woodcraft #dowoodworking #diy #challenge #woodworking #alldone #geek #geekcraft #nes #retro #retrogames #retrogamer #gamer #videogames @modernbuilds @foureyesfurniture @benjaminuyeda

A post shared by Ashley Grenon (@handmadewithashley) on May 31, 2017 at 5:48pm PDT

DIY Giant Mario Pixel Wall Art

If you build pixel Mario, please leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram @handmadewithashley or Twitter @handmadewithash.   I’d love to see your pictures!

DIY Supersize Pixel Mario | 8-bit Retro Home Decor

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DIY Supersize Pixel Mario | 8-bit Retro Home Decor

I’m linking up to:

• HerToolBelt
• Remodelaholic
• Abbotts at Home

The post DIY Giant Pixel Mario Wall Art appeared first on Handmade with Ashley.

How to Make a Wooden Photography Backdrop

I recently learned how to operate my DSLR camera in manual mode. While it has made a significant difference in the quality of my photos, there is still plenty of room for improvement.  In my quest for better photography, I made a little backdrop for small items.  I used some scrap 1×4 furring strips to create a wooden plank photo drop.

Follow along for steps on how to make one for yourself.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.  That means if you purchase an item via one of these links, I’ll receive a small commission at no added cost to you.  This helps keep the content on the site free and I appreciate the support! :o)

Tools and Supplies

The following items are some of the tools and supplies I gathered to create the wooden plank photography backdrop.

Tools

• Handsaw (or circular saw)
• Orbital sander
• Brad nailer

Supplies

• 1×4 boards (I used furring strips because they were scraps that I wanted to get rid of and it gave the backdrop a nice rustic look)
• 1×2 (or some other thin strip of scrap wood)
• Dark Walnut stain
• Antique White paint
• Vaseline (for a chippy paint finish)

How to make a Wooden Photography Backdrop

This is an easy DIY project and can be completed within a day.

Step 1: Cut 1x4s to rough size

Boards cut to rough size

Decide on the width and length that you would like the backdrop to be and cut to size.

Cut at least 2 (possibly more depending on the length of the backdrop) boards to the width of the backdrop for support.

Step 2: Attach backdrop supports

Backdrop support boards attached

Arrange the 1×4 boards and attach the support boards to the back side of the boards with wood glue and finishing nails.

Step 3: Trim the ends (optional)

If necessary, trim the ends of the backdrop.

Working on a quick little scrap wood project. I’m making a rustic looking photo backdrop. Trimming up the ends with my track saw. I wish I had a track about a foot shorter than this one. One day…too many things on my wishlist . #photoprops #backdrop #scrapwood #pine #warpedwood #diy #woodworking #woodworker #dowoodworking #tsoproducts #guiderailsquare #grs #grs16 #festool #festoolme @festool @festool_usa #festoolusa #tracksaw #hk55 #garage #garageshop #ineeddustcollection

A post shared by Ashley Grenon | DIY Blogger (@handmadewithashley) on Mar 29, 2017 at 4:23pm PDT

Backdrop ends trimmed

Step 4: Sand and prep surface for a finish

Sand the backdrop to prep the surface for the finish.

Step 5: Stain and paint

Stain the surface.  If you want a chippy paint finish, apply vaseline to random parts of the backdrop.

Paint the surface. Once the paint is dried, chip away the paint in the sections where the vaseline was applied.

If you choose to seal the surface, select a matte finish.

Making a little progress on my photo backdrop. Hopefully I can get this completed before the weekend arrives so I can work on bigger and more exciting projects. Once the stain dries the plan is to give the backdrop the chipped paint look. . #diy #photobackdrop #backdrop #photoaccessories #photography #prop #photoprop #woodenbackground #scrapwood #scrapwoodproject #furringstrips #krugerfestool #woodworking #dowoodworking #woodworker #timelapse #woodcraft #ecospaints #woodshield #specialwalnut #nosmellyfumes #woodenbackdrop #woodbackdrop

A post shared by Ashley Grenon | DIY Blogger (@handmadewithashley) on Apr 5, 2017 at 4:47pm PDT

Spray painting the backdrop white

Step 6: Use the backdrop

Start taking pictures and enjoy using your new backdrop!

Snapping a few photos of the Tardis end grain cutting board. Click here for the tutorial!

Wooden Photography Backdrop

If you make the backdrop, leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram @handmadewithashley or Twitter @handmadewithash.   I’d love to see your pictures!

Pin it!

How to make a wooden photography backdrop

The post How to Make a Wooden Photography Backdrop appeared first on Handmade with Ashley.

How to build a mobile lathe stand

Hello everyone! Today I’m sharing how I built a mobile stand for my lathe. I originally wanted to build a lathe stand that was perfect for my height but somewhere along the lines I butchered the math. (No worries, I’ll just use a platform to make up the difference.) The design of my lathe stand was inspired by one of the lathe stands I spotted in @onionwood’s shop.  @onionwood is an incredibly talented woodturner and instructor.  I highly recommend you take a moment to check out her Instagram page and see her work.

Now, let’s get started!

I finished my lathe stand. Yay! The design for this stand was inspired by one of the lathe stands built by @onionwood. (and if you haven’t checked out @onionwood’s profile you should ) I’ll add a few hooks and tool storage to it soon. . Maybe when I’m ready to upgrade my lathe I’ll build a version 2 with the correct math. . #lathestand #mobilelathestand #diy #dowoodworking #woodwork #woodworker #woodworking #woodcraft #woodturning #woodturner #lathe #harborfreight #centralmachinery #harborfreightlathe #kregjig #diyhalloffame #pocketholes #garage #garageshop

A post shared by Ashley Grenon (@handmadewithashley) on Jun 12, 2017 at 6:13pm PDT

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.  That means if you purchase an item via one of these links, I’ll receive a small commission at no added cost to you.  This helps keep the content on the site free and I appreciate the support! :o)

Tools and Supplies

The following items are some of the tools and supplies that I gathered to build my mobile lathe stand.

Tools

• Kreg Jig K5
• Clamps
• Drill / Driver
• Saw

Supplies

• 2x4x8 (4)
• 2x6x8 (2)
• Wood glue
• 2 1/2″ pocket hole screws
• 3″ swivel caster wheels with brakes (4)
• Screws (12) and washers (12) for the caster wheels

Cut List

• 2×4 – 29″ (3) Bottom Shelf
• 2×4 – 24″ (2) Leg Base
• 2×4 – 12″ (2) Leg Top
• 2×4 – 29 1/2″ (4) Legs with 12 degree bevel
• 2×6 – 29″ (2) Top Shelf
• 2×6 – 13″ with 12 degree miter short point to short point (2) Leg braces
• 2×6 – 32 3/4″ (1) Main Brace

I had a ton of 2×4 and 2×6 scraps, and I was able to build my stand without a lumber trip. (Scrap wood projects FTW!)

Boards cut to size

You should adjust these measurements to suit your height (or use a platform to increase your height). Measure the length from your elbow to the ground. This is the height at which your lathe’s center to be.

How to Build a Mobile Lathe Stand

Step 1: Cut all the boards to size

Follow the cut list and cut the 2×4 and 2×6 boards down to final size.

Now, in hindsight I also wished I took the time to ensure my boards were square with my jointer and planer. I skipped this step because I was lazy and I reasoned this shortcut was acceptable because this is a shop project. When I began to assemble the base, I regretted the decision. However, in the end (and with the help of many clamps) it all worked out.

Step 2: Drill pocket holes

With a pocket hole jig drill pocket holes into:

• Each end of the bottom shelf boards
• Each end of the top shelf boards
• Each end of the table legs
• Each end of the leg braces

Drilling pocket holes with the Kreg Jig K5

Step 3: Assemble the legs

Grab the table legs, leg base and leg top to assemble the legs of the mobile stand.  The assembled leg should look like a trapezoid.

1. Screw the table legs on top the table leg base (2×4 – 24″)
2. Screw the table legs underneath the table leg top (2×4 – 12″)

Assembling legs

Apply glue between the joints.

Step 4: Attach the top shelf supports

Join the top shelf supports (2×6 – 29″) to the table legs.

Step 5: Attach the bottom shelf supports.

Join the bottom shelf supports (2×4 – 29″) to the table legs.

Step 6: Attach the leg braces

Join the leg braces (2×6 – 13″) to the table legs.

Assembling lathe stand

Assembling lathe stand

Step 7: Attach the main brace

Attach the main brace (2×6 – 32 3/4″) to the two leg braces.

Step 8: Install the caster wheels

Drill pilot holes for the caster wheel screws and install one caster in each corner of the mobile lathe stand with screws and matching washers.

Step 9: Drill holes for the lathe’s feet (optional)

Move the lathe to the stand and trace an outline of the lathe’s feet.  Remove the lathe from the stand and drill holes with a Forstner bit about an 1/8″ deep for each foot. This is an optional step but I think it will prevent the lathe from sliding around on top of the stand.

Step 10: Enjoy!

Install hooks and other accessories and enjoy having a lathe on wheels!

DIY Mobile Lathe Stand

DIY Mobile Lathe Stand

If you build the mobile lathe stand, please leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram @handmadewithashley or Twitter @handmadewithash.   I’d love to see your pictures!

Reader Projects

@sayit_aint_tone727 built a scaled up version of the lathe stand:

Reader Project: DIY Mobile Lathe Stand

And check out @hubbellwoodworks version of the lathe stand:

View this post on Instagram

Made a simple stand for my lathe out of scrap wood. It’s on casters, too =) #lathe #lathestand #woodworking #woodworkingcommunity #wen #wentools #diy #hubbellwoodworks

A post shared by HubbellWoodworks (@hubbellwoodworks) on Jan 28, 2019 at 9:17pm PST

Thanks for sharing!

The post DIY Mobile Lathe Stand appeared first on Handmade with Ashley.

DIY Star Wars Inspired End Table

Hello everyone! Today I’m excited to share my latest creation: a Star Wars Inspired End Table.  This was a really exciting project to work on for three reasons:

1. It’s Star Wars Themed
2. It’s my first project with dado joints
3. It sparkles

Stay tuned for a YouTube video.  I hope to upload it my YouTube channel over the weekend.

Star Wars Themed DIY Projects

In honor of Star Wars day, I have teamed up with a few fellow bloggers to share tutorials on how to make some Star Wars inspired projects.  Please take a moment to check out each project:

• Yoda Wall Art – Hazel and Gold Designs
• Lightsaber Headboard – Mother Daughter Projects
• Wooden Star Wars Sign – Abbotts at Home

Here’s a list of my other Star Wars themed projects:

• How to build a Star Wars TIE Fighter Shelf
• TIE Fighter Shelf (The Force Awakens Edition)
• Star Wars Marquee Wall Art Tutorial
• BB-8 Push Toy
• Darth Vader Necklace
• Crochet Princess Leia Hat

DIY Star Wars Inspired End Table

Now, let’s get started!

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.  If you purchase an item via one of these links, I’ll receive a small commission at no added cost to you.  This helps keep the content on the site free and I appreciate the support!

Tools and Supplies

The following items are the tools and supplies I gathered to build this Star Wars themed end table.

Tools

• Router
• Homemade Router Dado Jig (tutorial coming soon!)
• 3/4″ Dado Router Bit
• Up Spiral Router Bit
• Router Circle Jig (alternatively can use a jigsaw)
• Jointer
• Planer
• Circular Saw
• Silhouette (for cutting Rebel Symbol stencil)

Supplies

• Sheet of 3/4″ Plywood (1)
• 1″ x 6″ x 8′ (1)
• Wood glue
• Glitter
• Cardstock (for Rebel stencil)
• Red acrylic craft paint
• Paint brush
• Black paint
• Stain
• Sealer
• Mod Podge
• Clear Matte Spray
• Pour-on High Gloss Finish

Cut List

Project lumber

For ease of use, I cut the plywood into manageable chunks.

• 24″ x 48″ (2) – Plywood
• 20″ x 22″ (2) – Plywood
• 1×6 – 21″ (4)

Mill the 1×6 with a jointer and a planer prior to starting step 1.  For details on that process, check out my blog post on How to Make a Wooden Cutting Board.

How to build the Star Wars End Table

I have SketchUp plans in the works. This is something I hope to make available before the weekend is up.

Step 1: Glue up the 1×6 boards

1×6 edge jointed panel

First up, create a panel with the 1×6 boards. Glue the edges and clamp the boards together. After 15 minutes have passed, use a scraper to remove excess glue from the squeeze out.  Let the glue dry completely before removing the clamps.

Step 2: Create dados

I opted for dado joints for this project because alignment critical.  I felt a dado was the best form of joinery for the project.  I whipped up a little jig for my router to create dados.  The jig was inspired by a Popular Woodworking Magazine article.  You can read about it here.

On a quarter sheet of plywood mark off the center from the short side and long side.  Create a dado along the lines. Repeat this step for the other end of the quarter sheet of plywood.

At the midpoint of the 20” x 22” pieces of plywood, create a dado on each side.

Creating dados in plywood with a router

Step 3: Cut circles

With a router and a circle cutting jig, cut out 4 circles.  (Alternatively you can use a jigsaw.)

• 20″ diameter circle with the dados (2)
• 20″ diameter circle from the 1×6 panel (1)
• 19 1/2″ diameter circle (1)

Cut the 19 1/2″ circle into quarters.

All done cutting the circles. I finished cutting the other parts of this project too. Tomorrow I’ll assemble it. Hopefully everything will fit together. . #imnervous #notfeelingoptimistic #woodworking #woodwork #woodworker #dowoodworking #circle #circles #woodencircle #plywood #pine #garage #garageshop #sundayfunday

A post shared by Ashley Grenon (@handmadewithashley) on Apr 30, 2017 at 4:51pm PDT

Step 4: Notch out the table “legs”

Find the center of the 20″ x 22″ pieces of plywood and notch out a portion of the board to make a lap joint with the other table leg.

Plywood joint

Step 5: Assemble the table base

To assemble the table base:

1. Place 1 circle with dado side up on a flat surface.
2. Attach the legs.
3. Attach the base top.
4. Insert table shelves.

Use wood glue and clamps to secure the joints.

Assembling table base

Inserting table shelves

Table base assembled!

Step 6: Paint the base, stain the top

Painting the table base

Paint the base and seal it with your favorite sealer.

Table top stained with ECOS Paints Woodshield

Stain the table top.  I used ECOS Paints Woodshield (Pine Needles).

Step 7: Paint the Rebel Symbol

I used my Silhouette to create a Rebel stencil about 16″ in diameter.

Rebel Logo stencil

I traced an outline of the symbol and painted the symbol red.  Allow the paint to dry before continuing onto the next step.

Painted the rebel symbol red

Step 8: Add glitter

Add glitter to the Rebel symbol.  I used Mod Podge to adhere the glitter the table top. Once the Mod Podge dries, seal the glitter with a coat or two of clear matte spray finish.

It’s so shiny Getting close to finishing up this project! I should have started it a week ago. This top is the 2×6 I resawed earlier. I didn’t have any issues with it warping. I think that’s probably because that scrap has been sitting my garage for many months. . #rebel #starwars #starwarscrafts #starwarscraft #geek #geekcraft #geekywoodworking #woodworking #dowoodworking #woodworker #glitter #red #rebelsymbol #starwarsday #may4th #maythe4thebewithyou #maytheforcebewithyou #diy #handmadewithashley

A post shared by Ashley Grenon (@handmadewithashley) on May 3, 2017 at 10:12pm PDT

Step 9:  Coat the top with resin

Before applying resin, try to remove as much of the loose glitter as possible.  Mix the resin according to the package instructions and apply a coat to the surface of the table top.  Allow for it to completely cure before continuing onto the next step.

Pour-on resin

Resin applied to the table top

Step 10: Attach table top to table base

Secure the table top to the table base.

Resin cured.

Top secured to the table base

Step 11: Make it spin!

This step has not been implemented yet, but it is a modification to the project that I plan on making.

Star Wars Inspired End Table

If you build this Star Wars inspired end table, please leave a comment below or tag me on Instagram @handmadewithashley or Twitter @handmadewithash.   I’d love to see your pictures!

DIY Star Wars Inspired End Table

DIY Star Wars Inspired End Table

DIY Star Wars Inspired End Table

Pin it!

Pin it! How to build a Star Wars Inspired End Table

I’m linkin up to:

• Kim Six Fix
• Remodelaholic
• Tater Tots and Jello

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