Create a Simple Wood Sign Without Stencils or Vinyl Cutters

If you like decorative signs, but you’re not skilled at stenciling or vinyl cutting, this simple DIY wood sign without stencil is a great option. It’s an easy, customizable project you can create with scrap wood. 

 

Create a Wood Sign Without Stencils or Vinyl Cutters

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Materials Needed

1×6 Scraps for the main sign 1×2 Scraps for the frame 2″ ready-to-finish wooden letters Wood glue & clamp Finish of Choice. I used this stain for the frame, black paint for the sign, and white paint for the letters. Miter saw or hand saw Nail gun or hammer &  Nails

Step 1-

Cut two 1×6 scraps to your desired length. This cut will depend on where you’re putting your sign and the phrase you want to showcase. Position the wooden letters to your liking, mark and cut to size.

Side note: The letter set I bought didn’t come with apostrophes so I created one by ripping a piece of another letter (pretty proud of that!).

Step 2-

Once the boards are cut, glue the 2 pieces together and clamp for a few minutes.

Step 3-

While the glue dries, paint the letters to your liking. I opted for a warm white.

Step 4-

While the letters dry, measure the height of your sign and cut the 1×2 scraps in 2 equal pieces for the sides. Set the vertical pieces on, measure the width, and cut 2 equal pieces for the top and bottom of the frame.

 

Step 5-

If you want the frame to be a different color than the background, this is the perfect time to add the finish on the pieces, before you attach the frame. I used this stain on the frame and black craft paint on the backdrop piece.

Step 6-

Attach the frame using a nail gun or hammer and nails. I love my battery operated nail gun. It was the first power tool I ever bought and I’ve made so many things with it!. Easy to use, powerful, and no compressors to worry about.

To attach the frame, begin with the side pieces, then add the top and bottom. I used 1- 1/4″ brad nails and glue all the way around.

Step 7-

And that’s it! Now it’s ready for you to glue the letters on! Easy peasy, right?

This sign looks so cute on my floating shelves. And my family likes having an easy and accessible hot cocoa bar in the kitchen.

I can’t wait to see what sign creation you come up with!