Steps for Making Custom Wooden Signs

Décor can be beautiful without breaking the bank, and if you are very much into DIY then, custom wooden signs are simply perfect for your interior design. So, to help you save money and still get something beautiful, we are going to break down the steps for making custom wooden signs. But before we begin, you need to get A Large piece of plywood, Paint Colors, A Paintbrush, Silhouette Cameo or Projector, Contact Paper or Adhesive Vinyl, brand transfer paper, Brad nailer or Hot glue, and a wooden board.

Now, let’s get started! 

Step 1: Cut and Paint the board 

If you are going the cut-out-stick-on stencil route then you need to paint the board in the color you want for the letters, so that when you peel off the stick, the rest of the board will be in a different color. If you are using just a cut-out stencil or freehand, then the board should be painted in the background color, since the letters’ color will come on later. 

Step 2: Create your design 

You can download a template you like and print it out in the exact size it will be on the board or create your unique design/inscription with online tools. If you are using a stencil, you can print and cut out the letters for your sign. If you are using freehand or a projector, you can simply print it out for reference or connect and point the projector to the sign surface. 

Step 3: Transfer design to sign

For the stencil, you can use Duck brand contact paper to transfer the stick-on letters to the surface of the board. Remember that for the stencil technique, your board should be painted first in the colors of the letter so that when the stencil of the letters is in place, you can paint over them for the background color.  If you are using freehands, you can trace your design to the surface first, then paint the letters in, since the background color is already painted on the board.  

Step 4: Build and attach the frame 

Stain the wood for your frame and let it dry before attaching it to the board. You can use a brad nailer to attach the frame to the sides of your sign and you could try using hot glue but, it wouldn’t allow you to grip the sign by the frame. If you have other methods of attaching wood, you can use that as well. 

Step 5: Voila!

Hang your beautiful frame in your home, office, or wherever you want, and if you are feeling particularly creative, you can add a little painted sign to the corner of the wooden sign. 

There you go! With these steps, you are able to create beautiful custom wood signs in no time at all!