How to Make Crafts With Antique Wood

Pull nails, staples and screws from the wood to prepare it for cutting. Cut straight edges along the sides of your boards with a table saw, cutting away split and splintered sections. Sort your pieces into wood hard enough to build frames from and wood that must have something to back it up. The solid pieces can be used for any part. Save the softer pieces for trim and decorative faces.

Categorize the wood by grain, paint or stain color, or other surface qualities. Use similar pieces in the same project, or mix and match for contrast, depending on your taste. Write a list of pieces and sizes needed to complete your project. Select wood from your inventory that is closest in size for each piece, starting with the largest pieces first.

Make the basic cuts required for each piece that are called for in the plan. This includes cuts on the table saw, band saw, miter saw or jigsaw. Any cut that changes the over-all shape or size of a piece should be completed first. Machine your parts. This includes boring holes as well as cutting dados and notches to make the part functional. The cuts can create the necessary holes for shelf pegs, or for joining pieces, such as edge rabbets, to fit corner joints together.

Sand edges and faces as needed. Sand the edges smooth that will be glued and fastened. Doing so will provide a clean fit. Sand faces as minimally as possible to remove dangerous splinters and sharp edges. Be careful during the process to maintain the patina of the wood.

Assemble the project. Glue and nail all pieces together. Drill pilot holes for all screws to prevent splitting the wood when you drive in screws. Use a pin nail gun for all nailing. Set the plunger depth shallow to prevent the nails from piercing the surface. Use brackets to reinforce corners where possible. Add new lumber where needed to support weight or bear stress. Use cardboard to pad all clamps to prevent surface damage.

Place two cups of vinegar and a piece of steel wool in a covered jar and let it set overnight. Brush the darkened vinegar over the edges of fresh cuts to oxidize the wood, blending it in with the antique patina of the surrounding surface.

Apply two coats of clear finish in your choice of sheens to protect the surface. Apply the finish with a soft, fine bristle brush. Do so in long straight lines, working with the grain. Spread the finish as evenly as possible to prevent runs and drips in the surface. Allow the label recommended drying time between coats for best results.