With a little paint and a couple of shelves, a simple piece of plywood makes a one-of-a-kind work of art. Hang it in your entry or hallway for a modern, natural touch.
Instructions
With a little paint and a couple of shelves, unassuming plywood becomes an unexpected work of art. Step 1: Select a piece of 2’ x 2’ plywood (#7705) that has an interesting and pattern with contrasting light and dark wood. Sand the most interesting side using fine-grade sandpaper.
Step 2: Add water to any water-based, white paint (one part water to one part paint) and paint the lighter grain in the wood using the water/paint solution. Apply multiple coats to add more contrast. Let dry.
Step 3: Apply two coats of Minwax Polycrylic (#290327). Let dry.
Step 4: Cut a 1” x 3” x 6’ pine (#931) into two pieces to use as shelves (14-inches and 10-inches) or ask a Lowe’s employee to cut the wood for you.
Step 5: From behind the plywood, use 2- 1 1/2-inch screws to attach the 14-inch shelf 4 inches from the bottom and 3 inches from the right edge. Attach the 10-inch shelf 7 1/2 inches from the bottom and extending 2 1/2 inches from the right edge.
Step 6: Attach 2 D-Rings (#264577) to the back of artwork. Locate them 2 inches down from the top and 2 inches from the side. Hang in desired spot.
Good to Know:
HANG TIME
The type of wall determines what kind of device you’ll use to hang an item.
When hanging pictures, artwork, mirrors, or organizers, it’s important to consider the type of wall you’re working with. Here are the three common surfaces and the best hanging hardware for each.
Wood/Wood paneling is the easiest surface to work with. Screws or nails are the best fasteners.
Plaster/Sheet Rock can be tricky. Since most of these walls are actually hollow, you’ll want to stay away from screws and nails unless you can locate the boards or studs behind the sheet rock or plaster. For heavier items, use wall anchors (plastic “sleeves”) that act as a grip for screws. Toggle bolts work well for heavy items like mirrors or shelves. Toggle bolts are spring-activated and have wings that unfold behind the wall.
Masonry and brick walls require a power drill (use a carbon-tipped bit) to create a hole for lead wall plugs (similar to bolts). For best results, talk with your local Lowe’s employee for the correct size.
Tip: Before hanging a group of items, arrange them on the floor first.
Tools, products, materials, techniques, building codes and local regulations change; therefore, Lowe's assumes no liability for omissions, errors or the outcome of any project. The reader must always exercise reasonable caution, follow current codes and regulations that may apply, and is urged to consult with a licensed professional if in doubt about any procedures. Please read our terms of use.