🖼️
The project:
We had to cut down a few trees in the back yard in order to level and retain the space. After letting the cut tree branches dry out for 12 months I was able to chip away the bark, plane till smooth, sand and then varnish the log to make a beautiful pot stand.
- Materials:
Timber log off-cut. One with some nice patterns through it or a nice effect.
Satin varnish to finish off the project. I had some left over from another project but any satin varnish will do the trick. I really like this particular brand.
https://trade.bunnings.com.au/feast-watson-1l-satin-timber-floor-varnish_p1524970
- Tools:
Chisel for taking off the bark.
I used an AEG electric plane to take off all the bumps on the timber because it was hardwood.
You could use a hand plane on softer timbers.
Sander or sandpaper block to finish off before varnishing.
I have had my Ryobi sander for years and used it on multiple projects. It is a workhorse.
https://trade.bunnings.com.au/ryobi-100w-palm-sander-with-bag-rps100-s_p6210776
https://trade.bunnings.com.au/aeg-700w-82mm-planer_p0097333
- Step 1:
- Cut the log to the required length. Ensue that it has had plenty of time to dry out otherwise you will have sap, tannins and resin leaching out.
- Use a chisel to tap off the bark.
- Plane the surface until you have the desired effect. I wanted a smooth even surface so I planed off the bumps.
- Use sandpaper to smooth off any marks left by the plane.
- Apply two coats of varnish to finish the project.
