Faux Driftwood Votive {Tutorial}

About a month ago I saw this beautiful driftwood votive set from Ballard Designs, but the $39 price tag was a little too much for me. So I decided to make my version.
Even though we live only about 20 minutes from the beach, it’s not the kinda beach you can get driftwood at. And since I wasn’t about to buy it, I had to get a little creative.

I’m always picking up natural materials (ok, garbage) that I spot lying around and later find a use for it. So, a couple of months ago I came across some melaleuca tree bark that was peeling off and scooped it all up. I even made my poor husband go with me later on to get some more.

When I saw the votive I realized the bark would be perfect for this project. (You could really use any other bark that peels off naturally if you don’t have melaleuca trees near by or even pieces of wood)

For more DIY projects and garden tips check out my blog.

Step 1

Here’s what I used:

Lots of melaleuca bark (Free)

A medium-sized glass vase from the dollar store ($1)

Left over dollar store ribbon (Free)

Small eyelets (Free – left over from another project)

Rust-oleum Hammered Brown spray paint (Free – left over from another project)

Elmer’s glue

Clear matte varnish (Free – left over from another project)

Well as you can see, I don’t throw anything away!!!

*Safety Warning: The melaleuca bark (or any bark for that matter) is extremely dry and extremely flammable. I tested it with a lighter on a whim and it caught fire instantly. So be very careful not to put the finished product next to another candle or flame. And of course never leave any candle unattended.

Comments

[jessyratfink]

At first I thought it was small branches, but when I realized you had rolled bark I was super impressed. It's very pretty. :)