DIY Monogram Stained Wood Wall Art {DIY Friday #5}

I made a modified version of the stained wood wall art inspiration that I posted last week.  One of my good friends from high school just turned 30 and he happens to be married to another one of my good friends, so I wanted to make him (them) something special for his birthday.  I get so many compliments on our "Montague's est. 2010" sign that's part of the gallery wall in our family room, so I wanted to do something along those lines.  Here is what I came up with:

I forgot to take pictures of each step, but here's a quick rundown on what I did:

Supplies:
8' 1"x4" select pine board
Sandpaper
Wood glue
Pocket-Hole Jig Kit & screws
Chop saw
Circular Saw
Stain (I used Miniwax Dark Walnut)
Stencils (I cut my own using my Silhouette Cameo Cutter)
Paint
Sawtooth picture hanger

Directions:
1. Cut your board into 4 equal lengths, about 22" long.
2. Glue the boards together and secure with clamps.  Let dry for an hour or two.
3. Use your pocket hole jig to screw the boards together in the back.

4. Sand the whole thing down, making sure to get rid of any glue that squeezed out of the seams.
5. Stain, then let dry for about a day.
6. Apply your stencil and paint.  I cut my stencils on adhesive-backed paper to make it easier).
7. Let the paint dry overnight then remove your stencil.
8. Lightly sand over the painted words and corners to give it a rustic look.
9. Add something on the back for hanging, and you're done!

I think there's something special about a home-made gift... and it's much cheaper than buying something custom made, so it's a win-win!

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