D I Y Wednesday: Rustic Pencil Holder

 I enjoy making all sorts of rustic items and can't seem to ever throw away any scraps... you never know what you might be able to use that piece for.  This little piece seemed like a Rustic Pencil Holder! 

Choose Wisely!

 Step 1:  I'm using scrap Cedar but you can really use anything... even old Christmas tree trunks!  Choose a piece that isn't too big for where you want to display your pencils.  Cut the piece to the height you prefer.  I recommend 1 1/2 to 2 inches.  If your scrap wood still has it's bark you can choose to de-bark it at this time if you'd like.   

Step 2: Sand the exposed top and bottom until smooth.  Round over the edges to create a nice finished look.

Sand until Smooth!

Step 3:  Use a Straight Edge to create "Pizza" slices across the top of your piece.  Once your guide lines are drawn it will be easier to position the pencil holes later.

Tip: Use the widest end for the bottom...it adds stability!

Follow all Safety Rules when Drilling!

Step 4:  Use a drill bit slightly larger than the pencils or pens you plan on keeping in the holder.   Follow all Safety rules when drilling! 

Step 5:  After drilling the center hole continue drilling around the outer edge using your "Pizza Slices" as guides for hole placement.

Tip: Rustic is meant to be Imperfect!

Step 6:  Sand off your pencil marks or erase them...Whichever is easier for you!

Step 7:  Enjoy!

DIY Wednesday: New "Vintage" Mason Jars

You know here at North Country Rustics that I love a good DIY project!  That's why I've decided to make today DIY Wednesday!  While the Internet has hundreds of thousands of these DIY Crafts...they aren't always practical, or easy, or fun.  Today's project is guaranteed to be all of it and more!  Everyone loves those vintage blue/green mason jars but they are rare and difficult to find.  Save your gas money and your sanity... Make yourself some brand new "Vintage" Mason Jars!


Add Colorful Whimsy to your Mason Jars!

All you need to try this delightful DIY is ModPodge, Food Coloring and an Oven!  And easy step by step instructions!  Now that you've got beautiful Mason Jars...What to use them for?  Rustic Weddings, Garden Parties, Vases, Color Coded Organization...even Mason Jar Chandeliers! (electrician recommended~LOL)  The possibilities are endless!