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WOODEN BUTTONS
Make your own tree bling from fallen
branches. By Kristin Roach
After a big windstorm, it can be a little overwhelming to look at all the branches and sticks that need
to be picked up in the yard. Instead of dreading this
cleanup task, you can see it as a chance to collect
all sorts of great materials for creative projects.
Branch with a straight section 6"– 8" long and
¾"– 1½" wide, from a hardwood tree Hardwoods
are angiosperms, which produce seeds with some
sort of covering, like fruits, nuts, or acorns. You
want a section with even grain and no forks.
Drill and drill bits:
5", E", r"
Sandpaper: grits of 220, 320, 400, (optionally) 600
Knife, small and sharp An X-Acto knife works well, as
does the small spear blade on a pocketknife.
Jigsaw or coping saw and vise or C-clamps
Beeswax (optional)
1. Choose a branch.
Find a hardwood branch with a straight section
6"– 8" long by ¾"– 1½" wide. You can use a fallen
126 Make: Volume
24
