When I blogged about the easy rustic trays, I put it out there that I was looking for more great uses for all the fence. Holly from Full Circle Creations wrote me an email--You could take some of that rough stuff and make small faux barn doors that would have been used in a barn loft...and add hardware to it and sell at your shows. People love to use those on their mantles...add a wreath to them or bunting. You could even attach and drape wire across then attach little clips or clothespins to it when you sell them. Just an idea.
When I started cutting the boards, I decided to keep the dog eared look. This was so simple, I cut 6 boards 30 inches long, put them together, measured the width and cut two boards 20.5. the cross board was the most difficult, but still very easy. I laid it under the cross boards and drew a line to get the right angle. A little Gorilla Glue Wood Glue and a nail gun going pop pop pop, and voila—it’s done.
When I sent the picture to Holly, she commented it looked like a gate… duh! she had mentioned barn door, and I made a gate. lol
I brought it into the house to test it on my mantel to see if the size was right.
A pitiful attempt to stage it. I really like rustic, but I just don’t know how to pull it all together.
I remember when Donna blogged this years ago, do you? She whitewashed hers because she has a dark mantel. On my mantel, I would need to leave it natural, or stain it with a dark stain.
After reading Holly’s email, I decided to do the faux barn door. For this piece I only used 5 boards and I cut them at 30 inches. I used the wood glue and nail gun to secure the boards, placing the top an bottom board one bard length from the top and bottom. I then measured the cross board just like I did with the faux gate.
Next up—this pair of faux shutters. You can see I used 3 boards for each, measuring 24 inches.
I made a feeble attempt to stage the faux barn door and faux garden gate….
But--I went shopping to pick up a few items, then, I spent about an hour a DAY styling-staging these items on my mantel…..
I picked up some polka-dot burlap ribbon and a grapevine wreath at Hobby Lobby. This is what I’m calling a faux barn door because the boards are straight across on the top.
This is what I’m calling a faux gate, because it reminds me of a garden gate. The photo on the bottom right is pretty much how it sits on my mantel right now. Although the polka dots are cute, They really aren’t me. You can see I switched out the red book for a more deeper toned plain book.
Last, but not least are some cute rustic faux shutters. This multi color polka dot ribbon was found at JoAnn’s.
I really am loving the new look of my mantel. I plan to make some of these for Glendale out of the fence that is too rough to use for the directional wedding signs in my Etsy shop.
You can check out my other rustic fence projects – easy rustic trays, planter koozies to cover up your plastic pots.
EDITED to ADD:
I made a little sign for my wreath.
I can also see the faux gate/barn doors/shutters used outdoors by a front door or by the mailbox to greet guests. Where would you use one?
gail
more rustic fence projects here:
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more projects using bits and pieces:
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Laurel Stephens
Who says you can't style? Gorgeous!
Erin
Great idea! I've struggled with what to put on my mantle and have left it empty since we moved in. The size ratio works perfectly
Stephanie@cre8tive
Love it! Those are so versatile for any season. And your styling is beautiful!
Pat
Love how all the different elements work on your mantel.
I don't think I've ever taken you for 'rustic' decorator.
I always thought you were more of a 'modern country'... either way, this works on your white painted mantel!
Patricia
jo
I am in awe of your talent and vision. When I looked at that fence in my back yard, it was just an eyesore. You have turned it into something beautiful!
Susan
Great projects Gail!!! Hmmm I have some fence someplace...
Susan
Great projects Gail!!! Hmmm I have some fence someplace...
Jacque
I love this! I want one to put in front of my fireplace when we aren't using it, great idea!
Mindi
These are totally adorable! They can be staged in so many ways for so many seasons! Great job!
Sheila Nye
I have to say I love your planter koozies, I would love to get some of those. I wish I were closer to you so I could pop over and take a look!
cassie
love these! if i didn't have a big honking tv on my mantel i would be all over it!
katie
Super cute project Gail!
Julie @ follow your heart woodworking
Those gates/doors are the BEST!!!
Adina Johnson
Gail - I love all of the great things you have created with the old fence boards. I'll be on the hunt for falling down fences now 🙂
nova
You could also make the gate/door bigger and use it for a rustic headboard.
Holly
I really like how all three of your rustic pieces turned out. If I had a mantel I'd want to put one up there. 🙂
Debra @ Msmoozysopenhouse
I really like the use of the older wood, it all looks so great! 🙂 Thanks for sharing with us and have a blessed day!
Inspire Me Heather
That looks great Gail - it does go with so many looks & seasons too!
kirby carespodi
What a great idea! Love the versatility--you'll sell a bunch of them. We actually have a great old gate similar to the one you made, but about 6 feet tall. We had a tree come down on part of our fence and the gate was no longer in use (because the fence was gone.) My husband put hooks on it and it leans up against the garden house, holding our rakes and hoe.