reclaimed wood American flag

While I am married to a Veteran (the hubs was Navy Search and Rescue) I must admit that I am not the most patriotic person but for the last few years I've had the idea of an American flag as "big statement art" floating around in my head.  I wanted to create something that was a tribute to the flag, something rustic with a twist of Americana. I know I am not the first to come up with something like this but nonetheless I set out to create my own version!  

Important note- this project is a representation of the American flag (not an exact replica). I am aware of the symbolism of the flag and appreciate flag protocol but I made the creative decision not use it for this project. I apologize in advance if this is offensive to anyone out there.

When my parents tore down an old fence a couple months ago, I knew that the old weathered wood would be perfect for my flag idea! I started by picking out 6 good pieces that had lots character to them and let them dry out in the sun.

Next, I lined up the pieces of wood and Andy nailed 2 x 2's to the back.

Then I taped off the different areas (for stars and stripes) and started painting.

I wanted a really light wash that would let the character of the wood show through so I mixed 50% paint- 50% water. 

Then I started painting!

I added stars with spray paint and a stencil.

The last step was to sand it down and distress the surface and add a wire to the back for hanging.

I am thrilled with the results and we loved it so much that we hung it in the living room- perfect timing for the 4th of July but I am excited to have it hanging year round!

Stars and Stripes Wreath Tutorial

Is is just me or did the month of June completely speed by us?!?! Well, whether I like it or not the month of July is starting and Independence Day is this weekend- YIKES! So I am dedicating the rest of the week to fun, easy and creative last minute ideas for your holiday celebrations! I wanted a creative and fun wreath for the door to welcome company and so far I've had no time to run to the store so I made use of what I had on hand.

I started with the inside of an old embroidery hoop to use as the frame for my wreath.

I created all kinds of stars from old bits and pieces of fabric and paper that I free motion stitched with different colors of thread.

A variation for those who don't sew could be drawn, painted or even stamped stars.

Once I was done sewing I cut out all of the stars

and with craft glue, I glued them to the surface of the hoop.

The last step was to create a little striped loop to add the back of the wreath for a hanger.

And voilà!!!! A simple, creative and patriotic wreath to add a little charm to the front door (with no money spent).