How to Make Yard Art of Life-Sized Animals

Search online sites for patterns to buy or make your own. Seek inspiration from children's books and draw animal patterns on large sheets of butcher paper. Cut the patterns.

Lay each pattern flat over a sheet of plywood. Tape the patterns in place. Trace around the pattern with a pencil or marker, ensuring that the lines are visible. Remove the patterns and discard the tape.

Lay the wood securely on a worktable or over two sawhorses. Cut the animals out with a jigsaw, using a slow, steady rhythm. Sand the edges of the wood to remove any rough spots or splinters. Sand any imperfections in the wood and fill holes or cracks with a wood-leveling compound. Allow to dry for several hours or as the manufacturer directs and sand until smooth.

Paint the plywood animals with a coat of exterior primer. The primer ensures a smooth surface so paint adheres well. Allow the primer to dry, then paint the animals as you wish, using exterior latex paint. You may choose to paint the animals one solid color so all resemble a silhouette or you can add colorful details.

Apply a coat of exterior varnish or clear sealer to the animals to protect them from sun and rain damage. Reapply this sealer at least annually, if the animals remain outdoors long term.

Install two pieces of 1/2-inch metal conduit pipe to the back of each animal to support it and provide a base. The conduit pipe should be the height of the animal, plus an additional 10 inches to insert into the ground. Secure the pipe with two pieces of 1/2-inch conduit pipe strapping material secured with small screws for each pipe. Space the straps 18 inches apart.