How to Make a DIY Word Light Sign Out of Wood - FULL TUTORIAL - Thrift Diving

Have you ever wanted to know how to make a DIY word light sign out of wood? This full-length tutorial leaves no details out, as I show you every step of the project--from selecting the font, printing out the large word on printer paper, tracing the word onto plywood, cutting it out with a jigsaw, staining the wooden word, drilling clean holes, and adding lights to your DIY word! Watch this full-length tutorial, and I guarantee by the time you're done, you'll feel comfortable and confident making this project!
0:01 Intro and overview of the project
0:55 How to find and download pretty fonts for your word light sign
2:46 How to enlarge print on a free site called Rasterbator.net
4:41 How to arrange and cut out printed sheets into a large stencil.
5:57 How to position your stencil.
6:55 How to cut out your word sign with a jigsaw.
10:31 Sanding the word sign.
10:40 How to cut holes for the lights and insert the lights.
15:56 How to stain the word light sign with Dark Walnut.
16:37 How to lightly distress the edges of the wood.
16:55 How to attach D-rings for hanging your word light sign.
17:52 Tip for how to accurately measure when hanging things on the wall.
19:00 Adding lights to word sign.
19:28 How to staple wires to the wood with a wire cable stapler.
24:05 Hanging the DIY word light sign and disguising the battery pack.
25:06 How to make a DIY wood picture frame to go around the word light sign.
25:41 Hanging the frame around the word light sign.
25:54 Subscribe to my blog and get 5 free ebooks, printables, and checklists!
MATERIALS USED (affiliate links)
16 ft strand of lights with remote control with 60 lights (for small word light signs):
amzn.to/2wUXcuE
29 ft strand of lights with remote control with 80 lights (for medium word light signs): amzn.to/2O3IUyU
36 ft. strand lights with remote control with 100 lights (for larger medium word light signs):
amzn.to/2MV1mgK
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LEARN HOW TO USE POWER TOOLS
If you have never used a jigsaw, this 29-min free tutorial will show you everything you need to know about the jigsaw to get started. You'll be on your way to making your word light sign in no time:
How to Use a Jigsaw:
• How to Use a Jigsaw: T...
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MAILING ADDRESS:
Serena Appiah
P.O. Box 463
Spencerville, MD 20858

[@crystalfrager3828]

You are the DIY power tools queen. 😅😄😊 Beautiful job on the sign Sis! 👏👏👏👏👏👏👏 It looks great with and without the frame. I love it! Hugs, Crystal.

[@ThriftDiving]

Thanks, Chrystal! It was a lot of fun making this!

[@elleb.282]

What impressed me the most is she didn't use scroll saw for this project but it still turned out great! Thanks for making this video and keep sharing and creating awesome stuff! Your video will help so many people who can't afford expensive tools but with your tutorial and guidance it is possible!

[@ThriftDiving]

Thank you!! Yes, a jigsaw works well, with a scroll blade used! :)

[@tabetawilson1295]

Yes!!! So true. This help me so much. I thought I would have to purchase a scroll saw. Glad I hold out on purchasing a scroll saw. Thanks so much for this tutorial. I found this the right time.💕

[@dennism5565]

Thanks for posting this video in September...I now have 3 months to complete my Christmas presents for this year! There are so many applications for your idea. Great timing for me. :)

[@ThriftDiving]

Yeeessss, you have plenty of time, Dennis! I'm already thinking of making more of them. I definitely am giving one to my mom, and maybe I'll do some other cool words to cut out and give to my niece as her present! :)

[@isabellelaval7294]

Totally love your word art project! I think it would make a great touch for our new home. Thanks for running us through the computer part. I'm over 70 and for me that'd be the hardest part. Many thanks

[@d.durandworthey1059]

Another great and informative video! I swear you could teach just about anyone to do just about anything related to DIY! You are a natural teacher and entertainer! You have a natural gift and look so comfortable and confident in front of the camera! Thank you much for being so incredibly awesome. Next stop, HGTV!

[@tierraharrell145]

This is by far one of the most thorough videos I've ever seen!! Keep it up!!

[@darniataylor7749]

Love this! The frame took it over the top, you could make other word art and switch them out! Great idea!

[@ThriftDiving]

Yes, that's a great idea!! I So glad you like it!

[@TiaChii]

This is SO pretty, and you can litterly use any word or object! Thank you for this diy explanation

[@evelynj.amponsah8417]

The word Art came out Fabulous, always love it when I get the notification bell. Thxs for sharing.

[@Laylia_]

I usually don’t like word art as decor, but this looks fantastic! Thanks for sharing!

[@EnjoyablePlaymate007]

Love this! Never thought of doing something like this myself. This will a good project to do once we buy our new home. 👍🏼👍🏼

[@groselline]

Greetings from Germany! You are a amazing creative mum!! Thanks for your idea! I watched your "How to use a jigsaw" and I now I'am creating wooden names for Christmas for my three girls. I am no longer afraid of working with saws. Your videos are motivating me. Thaaaaanks and stay strong in this crazy time.

[@petermembe8471]

Wonderful wood work! I'd love to see more of your videos to learn, I learn a lot! Thanks!

[@PamLashawn]

The best and easiest name sign I’ve seen and I’ve been looking for weeks! Thank you

[@ThriftDiving]

Yay!! Jusy the type of feedback I love to hear! :) Glad you found what you're looking for!!

[@nancyfeliciano2039]

Girl! This is beautiful! Perfect step by step tutorial and so easy to follow - you covered all my what if''s and your project tips are invaluable for ANY other wood craft project. thank you and be blessed for sharing!!

[@ThriftDiving]

Thank you!! Glad you found it easy to follow and helpful!

[@caroldiamond5814]

Can’t wait to start this project! Thank you for posting 🙂

[@kellyjean4981]

Im surprised this is the first time I'm seeing one of your videos! Great project and you explained it so thoroughly. Thank you, I look forward to checking out your other videos

[@elizabethsmith9653]

Love love love it ! It is amazing ! You are so creative and talented ! Thank you for sharing this !

[@ThriftDiving]

You are welcome, Elizabeth!! :)

[@mcmufftv]

Thanks for the video! It was extremely helpful. The websites were perfect for the finding fonts and making the poster. A little tip for anyone making a sign: I chose a thinner font than was used in the video. I noticed it was important to start off with the detail cuts (sharp corners and hole cut outs before cutting the outline of the sign. (She did this in the video) It kept the wood more stable when using the jigsaw otherwise the loose ends would vibrate like crazy.

[@Fabilolita]

Wonderful! I watched your video last night and today I got my sign made!

[@fitashaya16]

You are so talented! Love all your work, thanks for sharing.

[@loganbrauser3821]

Wow, if I I didn’t pick up but one tip from this entire video it’s that painter’s tape measuring trick 🤯. Thank you for being thorough and calling out all the pain points!

[@marefin712]

Thank you for sharing very beautiful idea. I just recently bought a jig saw that I've been using lately. And whenever I go out there isn't enough decoration out there for the month of Ramadan. You just inspired me to make one with the words EID Or EID MUBBARK with my left over scrap wood.

[@lozarkderccy3254]

Fantastic diy!!!

[@evem4876]

Great idea ty for sharing this with us. Turned out beautiful ...

[@ThriftDiving]

Thank you, Eve!

[@ladypinkylee]

That's incredible! I love this idea.

[@ShellyCline]

Wowie-wow-wow-wow. That is the coolest wall art ever.

[@tanyahamilton6761]

You are a doll, this is simply beautiful. Because you explained everything so clearly and patiently showed us how to do it is the reason I subscribed. I can't wait to try this....thanks so much for sharing.

[@ninj-c7522]

Super simpy and BEAUTIFUL 😂😍 great job!🤩

[@ThriftDiving]

HAHAH, I think I am going to have to coin that term "simpy." LOL. Maybe I'll make a shirt with "SIMPY" on the front. lol.

[@ladytammy6886]

This is fabulous 😍 Thanks so much for your tutorial!

[@deloresbattle3048]

Beautiful! You did a amazing job👍

[@joycekaishar6981]

Loving this project!

[@diannaperry8116]

I love this. Thanks for sharing. I am going to give it a try. You make it look easy. We shall see.

[@Uapa500]

I love it! 😀 Thank you for sharing your knowledge and ideas with us 😀

[@ThriftDiving]

You are so welcome! :)

[@LifeonGreenwoodwithCaron]

This is awesome! Thanks for the info on those two websites. I've added them to my list of go-to sites.

[@jstewartslaboratory]

Omg!! About to get my saw now!! Thanks for another great video.

[@kellymerrell2611]

This is soo cool! I would like to try this for my bar area. Thank you Serena for these beautiful ideas!❤❤❤💖🤗💖🤗🤗🤗😁🔥🔥🔥💖

[@ttv_is_good_2942]

This is amazing! I love it! Can't wait to make my own. You are very talented and so creative. Thank you for sharing this awesome diy.

[@ThriftDiving]

You are so welcome, Heather! Thank you for watching!

[@ShaaaMoney]

Amazing! Thanks so much for sharing!

[@ashleytamayo4157]

I love this! I think this would be an awesome gift for a family in their last name.

[@angeladawson5383]

Absolutely love this 🥰

[@johannesrobinson6634]

Beautiful work girl! Love your work.

[@dianasfarmhousedecorandmor6804]

I am amazed at how many videos I have seen and I am surprised I had never come across you! You are amazing! Thank you for being so thorough and explaining like the beginner that I am without assuming I should already know everything! I was wondering how you did the large letters and all I can say is wow and thank you! Keep it up!

[@materialgirl872]

Stunning!

[@GH-qi1wv]

Omg I just found your channel and I love it . Thanks you explain everything so well . Thanks

[@Flatfourdetailing]

Just discovered your channel. I’m a diyer myself. Was actually looking at jigsaws and stumbled upon your video. Love this and I want to give this a try. I think this will be a perfect gift for love one’s or friends. Thank you. Subbed.

[@taradise8]

*Love it !!!* 💜💜💜 This is so nice!

[@sdeee3842]

BEAUTY!

[@nuevagraciaalog2235]

thank you for sharing! this is the most amazing instructional diy video that i have seen by far... love it.

[@helloanitaa]

Very helpful video! Thank you! Can't wait to try it out

[@rachelcarpenter350]

I always love these videos!!!

[@innamcglinchey9509]

You are so creative and inspiring person. Love your work!!!

[@ThriftDiving]

Thanks, Inna!

[@thepawvoydoghotel9740]

This is by far the best tutorial! Thank you so much for taking the time to make this video!!

[@ThriftDiving]

Thank you for watching!!!

[@IJoniTells]

Omg! Beautiful job. I love the way you disguised the extra cord and battery pack. Genius! Btw, I was watching tv about Hurricane Florence the same time your video was running. So when you said "Rasterbator" I swear I heard something else! Lmao!! I was like, "Wait, what did she say?!?"

[@ramendi1637]

I will make this! Beautiful!! Thanks.

[@lornashandmadesoaps7034]

Thanks for sharing another great idea.

[@freeofusmartinez5199]

Thank you. you are a great teacher!

[@SewSweetCalifornia]

How neat. Not sure I could pull it off. I do want to get back to doing more crafty things especially since all three are now in school at some capacity 😁👍🏾

[@tonyalane3490]

I just bought my jigsaw today, came home and I found your video. just what I needed. Thank you :-)

[@hajrakhan5094]

I am in love with this project and definitely going to try making my own sign once I get my woodworking skills in order 😊❤❤

[@ThriftDiving]

Yes, you should! It is a fun project!!

[@annemegis]

Love it!!!! I would use the word Aloha!!! Or California, in red!

[@ThriftDiving]

Ooh, I love Aloha! California is great too. Like a hot red!

[@iOvercome2024]

Beautiful!

[@luciakurcova5624]

Thank you for your tutorial. It's amazing. This is exectly what i was looking for :)

[@paulineiguel1026]

This is honestly the best and most thorough video I have ever seen! Thank you for this!

[@sienkiewiczmonika1161]

Awsome project 😊 I will do this with words: welcome (in the hall), memories, family and friends (bedrooms ar living room) 💙 Or for a gift.

[@ThriftDiving]

Yes, I love "Welcome" and I'm thinking of a good one for the bedroom. Maybe "peaceful" or "relax." Ooh, I love "relax"!

[@FranksDIY]

That is an awesome idea. I really love the look

[@ThriftDiving]

Glad you like it! :)

[@dennasheriff9745]

😍 I love it!

[@samipierce5138]

I cant wait to make one of these!

[@ThriftDiving]

It's addicting making these! I do wish I had a CNC router machine and could just make a ton of them without needing to cut them out myself. That would be WAY expensive, though! LOL

[@bettymorris6702]

I love this . I think I'll be making some my grandbabies . Very nice.

[@diyingsugapetoria3140]

This for my attention. Thank you

[@Moon13Dreams]

I just discovered your channel and I love how creative you are! You do such great work!!

[@kaythevenet]

Serena, you're my new hero! :-)

[@sarahgirl1977]

Thank you!!!! Your so detailed and helpful!

[@larryearly5916]

I loved it. Great job!

[@littleliftera8244]

Gorgeous

[@blu3445]

I L💗VE super simpy! That's so pretty 😙

[@magicinhands]

Keep sharing this kind of videos love it😍😍

[@christiannemclaverty5836]

That's beautiful artwork & craftswomanship❕It turned out so well😅💛💛

[@ThriftDiving]

HAHA, I love it "craftswomanship"! I think I'll have to borrow that! Thank you, Christianne!

[@evonneadhiambo308]

Wow! Great work

[@1hellokittymeow]

I have watched this video at least 7 or 8 times and also showed it to family and friends. I have no clue this video doesn’t have 1MIL views. Please share. Her projects are easy, very well explained and quite classy.

[@ThriftDiving]

Aww, thanks! Who knows! KZbin is crazy like that, I guess. ❤️

[@wendyknoxleet]

You are fabulous at this, you need your own show on tv

[@justynakosieradzka9594]

Fantastic!

[@Letisha_Letisha_Letisha]

Awesome work!!!

[@ThriftDiving]

Thanks, Letisha!

[@droidzhunterz6861]

I want to make one for my home cinema entrance :D very retro

[@craftingwithangie2021]

I have one thing to say, I love it! :)

[@ThriftDiving]

Thank you!! :)

[@LifeasBekah]

Really amazing!!!

[@ramirezsulema87]

Wow! So innovative!

[@nancyholm1618]

Love doing things like this... Forgot that I could be this creative. Life happens. I already have computer and a meriad of fonts. Thanks for reminding me we can be amazing.

[@ThriftDiving]

Best comment ever! Thank you, Nancy, and I'm happy to remind you, my friend!

[@katjones5187]

Your videos are amazing 👍! Keep up the great work! Feeling inspired 😎.

[@jacobheadley1270]

very cool! love it!

[@dannysquires5955]

You are Brilliant!

[@oksanafedan7891]

This is absolutely amazing!!!! Thanks so much for the video!!

[@ThriftDiving]

Thank you, Oksana! I love your name, too! Reminds me of the famous ice skater! :)

[@Abbystarrrrr]

THIS IS AMAZING JUST YESTERDAY I BOUGHT A TON OF STUFF THAT SAY FAMILY TO MAKE PILLOWS BOW THIS TOPS ALL THAT I THOUGHT OF.

[@diordiva]

so cute!

[@darlenehopper2141]

That is so cute love it

[@ShondyDesigns]

Oh wow. I got to try this! Thanks

[@ThriftDiving]

Yes, please do! I am excited to try other words, and I think I make an even larger one for my bedroom!

[@jemano14]

Wow! amazing project I am definitely going to try it 👍🏻

[@rtd1791]

Great tutorial. Really made me think I could do this.

[@hollyandrewsyourrealtor]

This was so amazing and beautiful! Love this.

[@ngocnghia1003]

Nice

[@seekwisdom5102]

Beautiful