How-To: Wood Block Holiday Decorations

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A seasonal DIY that’s easy as A,B,C!

Wood Block Holiday Decorationsphotos: rachel for we heart this

Over the years, I have collected quite a few sets of wooden alphabet blocks. Partly, because I have small children, but also, because I adore the vintage charm of the well-loved blocks. This year, I decided to turn these beloved treasures into some holiday decor. This DIY is easy, affordable and a real eye-catcher.

Multiple letter wood blocks

Supplies:

Wooden letter blocks
Wood glue or Elmer’s Glue
Paintbrush
Newspaper for work surface
Drill (optional)
Ribbon or cord (optional)
Wooden beads (optional)

Tip: You can often find wooden blocks at thrift shops and flea markets. I’ve been able to buy bags of them for a dollar or two.

Directions:

1. Select desired words, names or expressions. Find coordinating blocks, and arrange them horizontally, vertically or stacked on top of one another.

Tip: If your blocks are new and you want them to appear worn, you can easily use sand paper to distress the surface.

Materials for making a Wood Block Holiday Decorations

2. Carefully spread a thin layer of glue with a paintbrush on the side of the block that you are attaching. A little dab is plenty, you do not want glue oozing out between your letters. In the event that you have an overflow of glue, just wipe it away it with your paintbrush.

3. When forming stacks of words, or expressions, glue one row of blocks at a time. Work on a flat surface and be sure that the blocks are lined up straight, otherwise they will not stack properly. If you’re using wood glue, they are extremely difficult to get apart, and you risk breaking a block, (or two), trying to pry them apart.

4. Stand your words vertically for a few hours to dry. That way glue doesn’t seep down, adhering your blocks to your work surface.

Joy To The World Wood Block Holiday Decorations

Another decorative option for wooden blocks, is to drill a hole through the center of each, so that you can string a cord or ribbon through the block and hang your creation. You can even spell out a phrase by separating the words with wooden beads or blocks that have an image.

Peace On Wood Block Holiday Decorations

When stringing your blocks together, I recommend nylon cord, (which can be found at hardware and craft stores). Tie in a knot at each end – if you do not want the knot to come undone, you can carefully use a match or lighter to seal the knot.

Red nylon cord

You can hang a phrase of blocks on the mantel, while small words or initials make whimsical hanging ornaments. Be sure to tie a loop at the top of your vertical design for easy hanging.

JOY Wood Block Holiday Decorations

With the alphabet and numbers at your fingertips, the options for block designs are endless. Make one for you, and one for a friend. Have fun playing with blocks, and enjoy your Holidays!

we heartsters – are you ready to raid the kid’s playroom to start making your own wooden block holiday decorations?

Rachel is a stay-at-home Mom that never seems to be home. She’s a military wife, mother to The Danger Boys and a self-proclaimed craftaholic that enjoys photography, knitting, baking and all things handmade.

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6 Comments

  1. Super cute idea @rachelshay – and I love how customizable it is! As a thrift store/vintage lover, the old-timey look of the blocks appeals to me. Retro toys are the best!

    My neighbor was loving this idea as well, and thought how cute it would be for a newborn – with a name and date of birth – as a DIY new baby gift. Have to keep this idea in mind for the next time I’m in need of a baby gift.

    1. I’m pinning this for that exact reason, what an easy and fun project! I’ll have to scouting out some thrift shops for used blocks, however—new ones wouldn’t have the same great look.

  2. This is so cute! I especially love the vertical hanging one–perfect for a doorknob. Good idea!

  3. Do you cover up the back of the wood where there are odd letters? I thought I made cover them with Christmas cloth or paint them. What do you think? Thanks very much.

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