Things You'll Need:
- Old or new wood
- Paint
- Wax
- Carpentry tools
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Step 1
Look for material to make the sign. Typically, a piece of plywood or other hardwood can be used as the main portion of the sign. Some actually use an old weathered piece of wood for an authentic feel.
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Step 2
Choose a slogan, motto or phrase with which to embellish the sign. Many offer up whimsical phrases or witty snips to ponder. Some simply list the garden's plants and other contents.
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Step 3
Distress a newer piece of lumber with a chisel, screwdriver or chain. Use the carpentry tools to gouge, scrape and damage the piece of wood as though it has suffered years of being left out in the elements. Use the claw portion of the hammer to make ragged marks.
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Step 4
Paint the initial coat of paint a gray or off-white color to mimic the appearance of old wood. Push the paint into all of the cracks and crevices.
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Step 5
Use a candle to rub against the painted wood in small areas so that topcoat of paint will not stick to those areas exposing the base coat for a rustic look.
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Step 6
Put a topcoat of paint over the waxed and base-coated piece of wood. Apply long strokes from a ragged old paintbrush for a tattered texture.
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Step 7
Remove any of the wax once the topcoat has dried. Now is the time to take whatever color paint desired and inscribe the weathered garden sign with a quote, saying or inventory.
