How To: Create a mid-century modern wood wall hanging piece

Remember summer camp? Remember the smell of the log cabins? The feel of the treated wood? Well, you can create something for your home that's perfect for a nostalgic summer camp aesthetic. Meg Allen Cole (recently of Threadbanger) was inspired to make this mid-century modern wall hanging piece made from a small wooden log (or branch) when she was at a relaxing, wooded vacation spot in Maine. And she shows you how to make one, too!

Check out this video tutorial to learn how to recreate Meg's mid-century modern wall hanging piece. It's amazing what you can do with a log! Have some clever ideas for other things you can do with wood? Post them in the comments below.

Supplies you'll need:
* Branch
* Backing board
* Picture hanger back
* Wood glue
* Spray-on wood finish

Tools you'll need:
* Saw
* Hammer
* Goggles
* Sandpaper

Directions:

Step 1:
Fasten a hanger on the back of the baseboard for your wall hanging. Be sure to center the hanger horizontally on the back of the baseboard a few inches from the top.

Step 2:
Cut up the branch(es) into roughly 1/2" cylindrical sections. The depth of each piece can vary giving the overall piece a topographic texture.

Step 3:
Sand Down the edges until they are uniform, and the top surfaces to your preference. There will probably be some rough edges from the sawing, sanding these down will ensure that they sit flush on the baseboard.

Step 4:
Arrange the pieces in a pattern of your liking. Ideally the pieces will overlap the edge of the baseboard.

Step 5:
Glue the pieces down one at a time starting from the center. Use enough glue to ensure the wood sticks together, and hold each firmly in place for a second. If there is excess glue, use a Q-tip to clean up the edges. Allow the glue to fully dry before advancing to the next step.

Step 6:
Give the whole thing a nice sheen with spray or brush on finish. Use multiple coats if necessary.

For more information, visit Etsy How-Tuesday.