Are you tired of the same old generic gift ideas? Do you find yourself scrambling at the last minute, desperately searching for something unique and meaningful? This year, ditch the gift cards and mass-produced presents! At Robert Kline Art, we believe that the most cherished gifts are those made with love and creativity. That’s why we’re excited to share two handcrafted bookend ideas that are perfect for any occasion, from birthdays to housewarmings and beyond.
Why DIY Bookends Make the Best Gifts
Handmade gifts show that you put thought and effort into creating something special for the recipient. They’re a wonderful way to express your personality and create a lasting memory.
But beyond the sentimental value, DIY bookends offer a practical and stylish way to organize bookshelves while adding a touch of personality to any room.
Project 1: Modern DIY Bookends – A Touch of Geometric Elegance
These modern bookends are sleek, stylish, and surprisingly easy to make! They’re perfect for adding a contemporary touch to a living room, bedroom, or office.
Materials You’ll Need:
- 1″ x 6″ x 6′ Oak Board (or any wood scraps you have)
- Miter Saw
- Measuring Tape
- Pencil
- 220 grit sandpaper
- Tack Cloth
- Clamps
- Wood Glue
- Minwax Water-Based Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner
- Minwax Wood Finish Water-Based Semi-Transparent Color Stain in Pure White
- Minwax Wood Finish Water-Based Solid Color Stain in Gentle Olive
- Minwax Design Series Grain Highlighting Finishing Wax
- Purdy 2” XL Sprig Paintbrush
- Synthetic Pad
- Rags
Step-by-Step Guide:
-
Cut the Wood: Using your miter saw, cut the oak board (or scraps) into the following dimensions:
- (2) 6″ x 5 1/2″
- (2) 5″ x 4″
- (2) 4″ x 2 1/2″
- (2) 3″ x 1″
-
Sand and Clean: Smooth out any rough edges with 220-grit sandpaper and wipe away sawdust with a tack cloth.
-
Prepare the Wood: Apply a coat of Minwax Water-Based Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner with a Purdy 2” XL Sprig Paintbrush for even stain absorption. After 15-30 minutes, lightly sand the surface.
-
Stain for a Contemporary Look: Alternate between Minwax Wood Finish Water-Based Solid Color Stain in Gentle Olive and Minwax Wood Finish Water-Based Semi-Transparent Color Stain in Pure White for a chic, modern aesthetic. Apply with a brush and wipe off excess according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
-
Assemble the Bookends: Once the stain is dry, apply wood glue to the edges of the wood blocks and clamp them together in the desired arrangement.
-
Finishing Touches: Enhance the natural beauty of the wood grain by applying Minwax Design Series Grain Highlighting Finishing Wax with a rag.
Project 2: Mountain DIY Bookends – Rustic Charm for Nature Lovers
These charming mountain bookends bring a touch of the great outdoors inside. They’re ideal for a kid’s room, a den, or anyone who loves nature-inspired decor.
Materials You’ll Need:
- 2″ x 12″ x 1′ Oak Board (or scraps)
- Miter Saw
- Measuring Tape
- Pencil
- 120 grit and 220 grit sandpaper
- Tack Cloth
- Minwax Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner
- Minwax Wood Finish in Special Walnut
- Minwax Polycrylic Protective Finish
- Purdy 2” XL Sprig Paintbrush
- Krylon Chalky Finish Paint
- Rags
Step-by-Step Guide:
-
Create the Mountain Shapes: Cut four triangles from the oak board using a miter saw. Two triangles should be 8″ tall with a 31-degree angle, and the other two should be 5″ tall with the same angle.
-
Sand and Clean: Smooth out any rough edges using 120-grit and then 220-grit sandpaper. Wipe away dust with a tack cloth.
-
Prep for Staining: Apply Minwax Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner with a rag for even stain application.
-
Add Rich Color: Apply Minwax Wood Finish in Special Walnut with a rag, allowing the stain to penetrate for 5-15 minutes before wiping away the excess.
-
Snowy Peaks: Once the stain is dry, paint the top portion of the triangles with Krylon Chalky Finish Paint to create the effect of snow-capped mountains.
-
Seal and Protect: For lasting durability, apply a coat of Minwax Polycrylic Protective Finish using a Purdy 2” XL Sprig Paintbrush.
Crafting Memories with Robert Kline Art
At Robert Kline Art, we’re passionate about inspiring creativity and encouraging you to explore the rewarding world of handcrafted gifts. These DIY bookend ideas are just the beginning!
Head over to our website for more inspiring DIY projects, tips, and tricks to unleash your inner artist. And don’t forget to share your creations with us – we love to see your handcrafted masterpieces!