Are you constantly scrambling for last-minute gifts? Let me tell you, I’ve been there! That’s why I love crafting – it’s the perfect solution for personalized presents that come straight from the heart. Today, I’m excited to share two DIY bookend designs that are not only beautiful but incredibly easy to make. These handcrafted wooden bookends are sure to impress and add a touch of homemade charm to any bookshelf.

Modern DIY Bookends: A Touch of Elegance

These modern bookends are sleek, stylish, and surprisingly simple to create. They’re perfect for adding a contemporary feel to any living room, bedroom, or office space.

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

Crafting Your Modern Bookends:

Step 1: Cut Your Wood Pieces

Using your miter saw, cut the following pieces from your oak board (or wood scraps):

(2) 6″ x 5 1/2″
(2) 5″ x 4″
(2) 4″ x 2 1/2″
(2) 3″ x 1″

Step 2: Sand and Prepare Your Wood

Smooth out any rough edges on your wood pieces using 220 grit sandpaper. After sanding, wipe away any sawdust with a tack cloth.

Step 3: Apply Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner

For a more even stain application, apply a coat of Minwax Water-Based Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner using a Purdy 2” XL Sprig Paintbrush. After application, wipe away any excess conditioner with a rag and let it sit for 15-30 minutes. Once dry, lightly sand the surface with 220 grit sandpaper.

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Step 4: Bring in the Color with Stain

I chose to alternate colors for a more dynamic look. I used Minwax Wood Finish Water-Based Solid Color Stain in Gentle Olive for a rich green hue and Minwax Wood Finish Water-Based Semi-Transparent Color Stain in Pure White for a clean, modern feel.

Apply the Solid Color Stain using your paintbrush, and immediately wipe away any excess using a synthetic pad. For the Semi-Transparent Color Stain, apply it in the same manner but wipe away the excess using a rag.

Step 5: Assemble Your Bookends

Once your stain has completely dried, use wood glue to adhere the wood pieces together, creating the layered bookend design. Secure the pieces with clamps and let the glue dry completely.

Step 6: Add a Touch of Luxury with Wax

To enhance the natural beauty of the wood grain, apply a coat of Minwax Design Series Grain Highlighting Finishing Wax using a rag. Apply the wax in a circular motion and, after 3-5 minutes, wipe away any excess against the grain. This will create a stunning, professional finish.

Rustic Mountain Bookends: A Touch of Nature

These charming bookends bring a touch of the outdoors into your home. Perfect for a kid’s room, a cozy cabin, or any space that embraces a touch of nature.

Materials You’ll Need:

2″ x 12″ x 1′ Oak Board (or any wood scraps you have)
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

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Crafting Your Mountain Bookends:

Step 1: Cut Your Mountain Shapes

Using a miter saw, cut out four triangle shapes from your oak board. You’ll need two larger triangles (8″ tall) and two smaller triangles (5″ tall). Ensure the side opposite the right angle of each triangle is cut at a 31-degree angle for a more dynamic mountain shape.

Step 2: Smooth and Prepare Your Wood

Smooth out any rough edges using 120 grit sandpaper, then refine the surface with 220 grit sandpaper for a polished finish. After sanding, remove any dust with a tack cloth.

Step 3: Apply Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner

Apply an even coat of Minwax Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner using a rag. Allow it to sit for 5-15 minutes, then wipe away any excess with a clean rag.

Step 4: Bring in the Warmth with Stain

Using a rag, apply Minwax Wood Finish in Special Walnut to your wooden triangles. For a richer color, allow the stain to sit for a longer period before wiping away the excess. I recommend experimenting on scrap pieces to find your desired shade.

Step 5: Add a Snowy Peak

Once the stain has dried, use Krylon Chalky Finish Paint to create the illusion of snowy mountain tops. Apply two coats for better coverage and a more opaque finish.

Step 6: Seal and Protect Your Bookends

For a durable finish, apply a coat of Minwax Polycrylic Protective Finish using a Purdy 2” XL Sprig Paintbrush. For extra protection, apply a second coat after lightly sanding the first coat with 220 grit sandpaper.

Handmade with Love: DIY Bookends for Every Style

There you have it! Two beautiful and functional bookend designs that are perfect for adding a personal touch to your home décor or gifting to friends and family. Remember, these are just starting points – feel free to experiment with different wood types, stains, and embellishments to create truly unique and personalized pieces.

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What are your favorite DIY gift ideas? Share your thoughts and creations in the comments below! And for more handcrafted inspiration, be sure to explore the unique selection of gifts on the Robert Kline Art website.