Creative Woodworks & crafts 2005-11, страница 51

A few tips from Dirk

If you plan to display your wooden ornaments on a tree, they will show up best when made from light-colored woods such as birch, maple, oak, or poplar. Don't forget though that you can finish your ornaments with paint slain, glitter or any number of different finishing techniques to make your creations stand out from your tree.

Also, keep in mind that you can substitute many other materials and wood thicknesses when making these ornaments. Try working with plexiglass, thin metals, plywoods, or any other material that can be cut on a scroll saw. It is interesting to see the results of the same design cut from different materials. Take the opportunity to experiment with these ornaments and find your favorite variations.

The reason we suggest using 1/8"- to l/4"-thick wood is because anything heavier may cause the tree branches to droop. Ornaments that are meant to be displayed in other settings, however, such as on a mantle, bookshelf, or from a hook can be made from thicker materials if desired. You may even want to enlarge the patterns for these ornaments to create a more dramatic piece

to display. For these situations, it is nice to use some gorgeous hardwoods like cherry, purpleheort, or walnut.

Although traditional wire hangers will support your ornaments perfectly well, why not consider adding a colorful ribbon, gold cord, or brass wire to really make thern shine? Start with the basic patterns provided, but make the ornaments your own!

For questions concerning these ornaments, send a SASE to: Dirk Boelman, P.O. Boy 701 Plattevitle, Wt 53818. Email: dirkdraws@century-tel net ^

mber 2005 • 51