Go-with-the-Grain Wood Artwork

For an eye-catching, one-of-a-kind display, create this naturally chic, go-with-the-grain wood art.

With a little paint and a couple of shelves, unassuming plywood becomes an unexpected work of art.

Step 1: Select a piece of 2’ x 2’ plywood (#7705) that has an interesting and pattern with contrasting light and dark wood. Sand the most interesting side using fine-grade sandpaper.

Step 2: Add water to any water-based, white paint (one part water to one part paint) and paint the lighter grain in the wood using the water/paint solution. Apply multiple coats to add more contrast. Let dry.

Step 3: Apply two coats of Minwax Polycrylic (#290327). Let dry.

Step 4: Cut a 1” x 3” x 6’ pine (#931) into two pieces to use as shelves (14-inches and 10-inches) or ask a Lowe’s employee to cut the wood for you.

Step 5: From behind the plywood, use 2- 1 1/2-inch screws to attach the 14-inch shelf 4 inches from the bottom and 3 inches from the right edge. Attach the 10-inch shelf 7 1/2 inches from the bottom and extending 2 1/2 inches from the right edge.

Step 6: Attach 2 D-Rings (#264577) to the back of artwork. Locate them 2 inches down from the top and 2 inches from the side. Hang in desired spot.