How to Make Your Own Lawn Ornament

Think about the design for your lawn ornament. Consider style, size and what type of model you could make according to the material that you have on hand. Look for some examples of common designs on garden websites.

Select your medium by assessing these materials and how you want the lawn ornament and to look. Concrete ornaments tend to be heavier and less colorful than wood; wood ornaments are quicker to make, but not as durable as concrete; metal ornaments are more malleable and sturdy if you use materials such as aluminum, which doesn't rust, or steel, which is durable and strong.

Create a design. Trace a design onto wood or draw a prototype. Create a mold for concrete ornaments. Working off a model or design provides a visual example of the end result.

Determine where you need to make bends--for metal structures--and cuts. If you are using concrete, find familiarize yourself with pouring and drying procedures.

Consider environmental factors before making a yard ornaments. It needs to stand up to tough conditions such as snow, high wind and heavy rains.

Cut your wood or metal using the proper equipment, or start pouring the concrete. Band saws, jig saws, metal cutting shears, oxy-fuel cutting torches and air plasma cutting tools are good tools and methods for cutting metal or working with wood.

Smooth rough edges of your lawn ornament after the lawn ornament is cut or cured. Paint the exterior; powder-coated paint enhances a metal lawn ornament's durability. Set the lawn ornament in your yard for a few days to see how it survives in the elements.