One Last Patriotic Hoorah!

Happy 4th of July!

We just had to sneak in one last Patriotic Craft!

Not only was it totally inexpensive to make

but it was really fun to fiddle with!

I started with some 1 1/2 inch x 4 foot long firring strips or shims as some call em'.

I cut them into 2 foot lengths.

I used a couple of them to tack them all together down the back.

I had a star hanging that I loved the shape of

so I traced it onto the boards.

Using my quilting ruler I just enlarged the star

to fit within the board margins.

You'll need a jig saw next!

These are pretty easy straight cuts to do

but it helps to have your project clamped to a table while you cut!

I then did a light sand job and started up with the paint.

I was so glad to not have to tape off any straight lines!

Whenever I paint I usually never use "full strength".

I usually do a 1 part H2O to 2 parts paint mixture.

Especially when I'm going for a primitive look on cedar like this

it just helps the paint soak in a bit,

not be so over powering or look too patchy.

Then out of my extra pieces I cut out a smaller star to layer on top.

I sanded again so some of the wood would peek through,

and also because when cedar or most woods get wet

all their little fibers stick up and make a rough mess.

Using a damp paint rag I used a bit of watered down

burnt umber to "age" the edges a bit.

I tied some extra pieces of ripped fabric and twine

to a wire I curled for it to hang on.

It got the 2 thumbs up from the hubby

so it must be okay!

We are so grateful for this day that is set aside to honor

the Freedom's we are so blessed to have

and for all those who have sacrificed

for us to have them.

God Bless America, Land That I Love!