I wanted to create a modern address plaque as part of our exterior remodel, so I set out to find some inspiration on Pinterest. I loved this one and was inspired to create a similar version. I did it a bit differently, so I’m sharing my rendition here!
What you’ll need:
- 1″ x 8″ board (my plaque was 20″ long)
- 1″ x 1″ boards (I used 6 20″ lengths)
- Clear wood glue
- Pencil
- Miter saw
- Wood conditioner (optional)
- Stain and polyurethane of your choice (I used a stain/poly combo)
- Stain rags and sponge applicator or brush
- Sanding block
- House numbers
How to:
1 | Determine the width of your plaque. You’ll need to take the space availability on your exterior as well as the amount of address numbers into account. For example, if you only have 2 house numbers, you won’t need a 20″ long plaque! Cut the 1″ x 8″ to your desired length. Ours was 20″.
2 | Determine the spacing of your 1″ x 1″s. Then cut the appropriate number of lengths of boards- we used 6 20″ boards.
3 | Using a pencil, mark out the placement of each 1″ x 1″.
4 | Add a strip of glue to the middle of each 1″ x 1″. You don’t want to add too much or it will leak around the sides and affect your stain finish. I used Elmer’s Wood Glue, but you could use whatever wood glue you prefer. Glue down your boards, ensuring that they are square to the edges of your plaque.
5 | Using clamps or a large object on top of the boards, allow the glue to dry overnight.
6 | The next day, sand down the boards to ensure you have a smooth surface for stain application. Optional step: apply wood conditioner to allow the stain to penetrate the wood better.
7 | Apply stain; be thorough but quick to wipe off stain as it tends to pool in the corners of the 1″ x 1″s. *If you’re using a stain/poly combo, do not wipe it off! At least 4 hours after stain application, if you’re using a separate stain and poly, apply polyurethane and allow to dry. I used a combo to save time!
8 | Attach house numbers. Depending on the spacing and size of your plaque, it might work best to screw them into place. I glued the numbers on because the hole placement for the screws didn’t quite work with the 1×1 spacing. If you choose to glue them, take caution again not to use too much glue- I made this mistake the first time around and had to sand and restain the entire piece!
9 | Attach to your house and practice your “thank yous” for when your neighbors give you compliments!
