Remember balsa wood from childhood model plane kits? Use this ultralight-weight wood to create a marquetry-style wooden table runner. Cut geometric shapes stained in dark, medium, and light shades for a unique DIY project that will add a chic touch to your dining table.
Marquetry involves assembling thin pieces of wood into patterns or images. Balsa wood is perfect for this craft due to its easy manipulation. Design your own wood “mosaic” on a plywood board for a table runner that will elevate your dining area. Gather wood stain, wood glue, spray adhesive, clear sealant, balsa wood, and tools like a utility knife, saw, sandpaper, pencil, and ruler for this project.
Cut the shapes out of the wood
For a table runner with inlaid squares, trapezoids, and triangles, cut balsa wood pieces according to specific measurements and angles. Label each piece accordingly and follow the instructions to create the desired shapes for your table runner.
Putting the pieces together
Stain the wood pieces in different shades, lay them out on the plywood board, and glue them together according to the design. Allow the wood glue to dry completely before adding spray adhesive and sealant to finish the table runner.
