Weathered Words

I wanted to make something to give to everyone as a gift at my son's rehearsal dinner coming up.  Since they live in Boston, I'm doing a kind of 'beach' theme so these weathered boards seem like a perfect idea.  I chose Bible verses specifically with the word "love" in them.

 I have a garage full of old fence boards that I got for free off of Freecycle last summer.  After cutting them into 81/2" lengths, I sanded the edges to give them a 'worn' look.  Next I did a wash of watered down white chalk paint.  The boards on the right are 'before' the wash; the ones on the left, 'after the wash.

I print the words out on white tissue paper and then using my own 'blend' of chalk paint, water, gesso and Mod Podge, I apply the torn tissue pieces to the wood.  

 

 This is an important step -- blotting the letters immediately so they stand out.  I just use an old rag and blot each word until the ink stands out dark once again.

Once they are dry, I used my sander to distress more, concentrating on the edges of the tissue so it looks like a sign that has been worn by the elements. 

The next step is another white wash. 

 Once they're dry -- I attach hangers to the back so they can be hung on the wall or just propped up.

I liked the way these all turned out so I'm in the process of making more to put in my Etsy shop.  Some have these same verses and some have patriotic sayings for the Fourth of July.  I'll also be offering them to be customized with your favorite quote or verse so if you're interested in ordering one, email me and let me know what you'd like it to say!