Summer Blocks-Tutorial

I admit it, I am a little late getting this done, but I have been wanting to make these for several months now.  I am a procrastinator.  I have been since day one.  At least I still have a month or so to enjoy these, right?

You have probably seen several tutorials on this, but here is my take on it:

First, I cut the blocks to match the size of the vinyl lettering.  I bought the vinyl lettering at that store I have been telling you about that has since gone out of business.  I bought the vinyl for about 3 bucks!  

I cut the wood with my band saw.  That is the best saw to cut straight lines.  I love it.  It is really easy to use too.

Now, I brushed each block with Mod Podge.  I try not to get an over abundance of Mod Podge on the wood, so I don't have to wipe it off later.

I used my daughters little blue book with all her friends phone numbers in it to flatten out the paper, or you will get lots of bubbles under it.  Keep doing this until it looks like it's dry.

{bad picture, sorry!}

Next, I took my block sander and sanded the excess paper off each edge.  Do not do this until the Mod Podge is completely dry, or the paper will slide everywhere and it will look terrible!

This step you have to be careful about.  I stained my blocks after I put the paper and vinyl on.  I tried staining the whole thing, including the paper, but it looked terrible.  I had to start over.  I only stained the sides and back of each block.  The stain I used is called Minwax Early American. It's my fav!

There ya go!  I didn't include how to adhere the vinyl.  Directions are usually included with the packaging.  It's super easy.  

I am happy with the way they turned out and they look great on my mantel.  If only for another 3 or 4 weeks:)

Linking here:
Craftomaniac
C.R.A.F.T.
Skip to My Lou
Sumo's Sweet Stuff
The Girl Creative
Someday Crafts