Color Stained Wood Block Display

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This color stain wood block display is so simple to make, but has so much decorating potential. I just love ease and purpose don’t you! I think the thing that makes this display block so special is the colored stain, it is a unique touch that I think you will enjoy trying for your wood crafts.

Have you ever heard of Unicorn Spit? I used it on a table you might have seen a while back. Well it’s great for small craft projects as well and I had a fun time using a bunch of neutral colors for a variety of finishes in this little project. I always enjoy learning a new technique or how to use a new product. You can make these charming little shelf sitters in a few hours. I made a bunch and adorned them with old dictionary page prints for Christmas gifts this year. Here’s the quick how to…

Color Stain Wood Block Tutorial

1. Start with a hefty size wood scrap or use a 2″ x 6″ board. 
2. Cut your board into the desired length. I cut mine in 7″ lengths to accept a 1/4 size sheet of paper so I could print graphics to display. (See how to do that HERE!)
3. Sand generously. I think the more soft and weathered the better! I prefer to use an orbital palm sander like this one.
4. Select a shade of Unicorn Spit – they have so many colors to choose from and the amazing thing is the smell! You can do this indoors with NO ODOR and beautiful color that can be layered or fly solo. I cut an 8″ board down to make a ton of these and used the following colors on mine:
5. Color stain the front and back. I diluted the stain with water to make it more sheer and light. Play around until you get the coverage that works for you. Use a sponge brush to apply and then wipe and buff with a rag or paper towel.
6. I chose to wood stain the sides of my block for a two tone effect. I think it adds such a rich finish to this project. I applied Minwax stain with a sponge brush and wiped and buffed with a paper towel as well.
7. Get creative with your clip – use a vintage Christmas light holder like I did or use small clothes pins.
8. Garnish with ribbons, bows, faux or fresh greenery or other fun finishes and display photos or graphics for the holiday seasons! 
9. You can read here about how to print a small graphic on a vintage dictionary page if you want to make a display like mine!