DIY Christmas Signs on Rustic Pallet Wood

I love making Christmas decorations, even if my husband thinks it's too early to put them up before Thanksgiving!

This year, I want to try a more rustic look for my Christmas decorations. This simple gold Christmas tree sign is a fun way to start.

All you need is a wood sign, some paint, and a Christmas tree stencil. That's it! You might even have these supplies at home already.

The best part is you can use this stencil on almost anything you like. You don't have to use pallet wood if you don't want to. Try it on canvas, a gift bag, or whatever you have handy.

Supply List

• Pallet Wood Sign
• White Acrylic Paint
• Gold Metallic Paint
• Foam brush
• Christmas Tree Stencil

Grab the Christmas Tree Stencil

You don't need to draw your own Christmas tree for this project! I have a simple tree stencil that makes it easy to get the same look.

The design comes in both PDF and SVG formats. Print the PDF and cut it out by hand, or use the SVG with your Cricut or another cutting machine.

You can also resize the tree to fit your project. Use it on wooden signs, canvas, gift bags, or other surfaces you can paint.

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Prepare the Wood Sign

The wooden sign I used for this project came from my Snowflake Wood Chargers Made from Repurposed Pallets tutorial.

I made those wood chargers for a holiday table setting, but they also work great as decorative signs. I love finding new ways to use things I've already made!

If you want to make your own sign from pallet wood, follow the steps in that tutorial to assemble the pieces.

You can also use a plain wood sign from the craft store. This is perfect if you want to skip the woodworking and get right to the fun part, painting.

Before you start, make sure your wood is clean and dry. If it feels a little rough, give it a quick sanding, then wipe away the dust.

Paint the front of your sign with white acrylic paint using a foam brush. Let the first coat dry, then add a second coat for more coverage.

I like the look of a little wood showing through the paint. It gives the sign that worn, rustic feel that works so well with classic Christmas decor.

Let the white paint dry before adding your stencil.

How to Make a Christmas Tree Sign with a Stencil

Now for the fun part! Let's add a shiny gold Christmas tree to your white wood sign.

Step 1: Cut Out the Christmas Tree Stencil

Print the Christmas tree stencil at the size you want for your sign.

Place the paper on a cutting mat and carefully cut out the tree shape with a craft knife. Keep the outer piece of paper because that's the part you'll use as your stencil.

If you're using a Cricut, you can cut the stencil from stencil vinyl instead.

Set the stencil on your painted wood and move it around until you find the spot you like best.

Step 2: Paint the Christmas Tree

Once your stencil is in place, tape it down with painter's tape to keep it from moving.

Or, if you're like me and get a little impatient, you can carefully hold it in place while you paint. I won't judge! 😉

Dip your foam brush into the gold metallic paint, then dab off the excess. A little paint works best because too much can seep under the stencil.

Gently dab the paint inside the tree shape, starting around the edges.

I started by painting the edges of the tree, then lifted the stencil and filled in the center. This way, the wet paint didn't smear when I moved the paper.

If you're using stencil vinyl, you can leave it in place while you paint the whole tree.

Try to keep the paint coats thin. You can always add more paint, but it's much harder to fix if it spreads under the stencil.

Step 3: Remove the Stencil and Touch Up the Paint

Carefully lift the stencil away from the wood.

If you're using a paper stencil, lift it straight up so it doesn't drag across the wet paint. If you're using stencil vinyl, peel it away slowly.

Check the edges of your Christmas tree. If any spots need a little help, use the corner of your foam brush or a small paintbrush to touch them up.

Let the gold paint dry, then add a second coat if you want the tree to stand out more.

Step 4: Let the Sign Dry and Display It

Once the paint is dry, your DIY Christmas sign is finished!

I love how the gold tree pops against the white wood. It's simple, pretty, and has just the right amount of shine.

You can lean your sign on a shelf, set it on a mantel, or add a hanger to the back to make Christmas wall art.

If you plan to hang it, use a hanger that can support the wood's weight.

I put mine next to a wooden sled and some pinecones. It's such a cute Christmas display, and I love that I made it myself!

You could also paint the tree green, red, or silver to match your holiday decorations. You can even add a little "Merry Christmas" or a welcome message to make the sign your own.

I can't wait to show you more of my Christmas decorations this year. Last year, we went with a fun, bright theme because my kids wanted it. This year will look a little different, but we're still making popcorn garland for the tree. I love that tradition!

Frequently Asked Questions

 

More Christmas Crafts

I love making my own Christmas decorations, especially when I can use simple supplies I already have!

Check out my other Christmas crafts for more fun ways to decorate your home and make handmade holiday gifts.