Make a Wooden 8-bit Pixel Link | the Legend of Zelda Pixel Art

Hello everyone, today I’m sharing how to make 8-bit pixel Link from the original The Legend of Zelda NES game. Display this wall art in your game room and enjoy the 8-bit nostalgia.

My technique for creating pixel Link comes from lessons learned from a pixel Mario build from last year. (You can watch Mario's build video here). For the Mario build, I cut each pixel into individual squares, routed their edges, and glued everything back together again. It was a long, painful and tedious process. A lot of the headache is removed if you just use a single sheet good and a router to simulate the look of individual pixels. Continue reading and I'll show you how I did it.

TOOLS AND SUPPLIES

I used the following tools and supplies to create pixel Link:

Tools

Supplies

2' x 2' plywood - 1/2" thick
Acrylic craft paints (green, brown, khaki)
Primer spray paint
Clear coat
Sand paper

Step 1: Draw 1.5" Grid Lines

The scale I'm using for pixel Link is 1 pixel = 1.5".

Use a rulers to mark grid lines spaced 1.5" apart on the 1/2" plywood.

Step 2: Route Along the Grid Lines

Install a v-groove router bit into your router and route along the grid lines. Use a clamp edge guide to ensure straight lines.

Step 3: Cut Out Link's Silhouette

Cut out Link's shape with a jigsaw.

I did a google image search and found a pixel grid with a Legend of Zelda sprite that I liked the most.

Step 4: Prep Pixel Link's Surface for Painting

Sand between the grooves and sand the surface of Link. I used scrap piece of wood to support the sandpaper as I sanded between the grooves.

Next, apply a coat of primer. I used gray primer but white will work well too.

Step 5: Paint Pixel Link

Paint each pixel on Link. Painting between the grooves is a little tricky. Use painters tape to maintain clean lines. I was impatient and used paint brushes for painting miniatures to paint in the crevices.

If necessary, apply multiple layers of paint. Once the paint is dried, protect the finish with a clear coat.

Step 6: Enjoy 8-bit Link!

I am really happy with how pixel Link turned out. The process of creating him was less tedious than my pixel Mario build. Painting the pixels required more work, but the extra work involved there pales in comparison to the work I avoided by using a piece of plywood.

Thanks for reading! I hope you enjoyed the Instructable.