String Art, 100% Free

In this Instructable, I will be showing you how to make some string art using free and reclaimed materials.

String art is a simple and enjoyable afternoon project you can do with your whole fam, and its cool-looking decor.

Plywood.

1" nails.

Yarn, string, twine etc.

Staples.

Tools

Hammer.

Scissors.

Sand paper.

Propane Torch, optional.

I used an old piece of reclaimed half inch plywood, but you can use virtually any wood, with any dimensions.

The surface was rough and dirty, so I cleaned it up with some sandpaper.

I decided to go with a burnt wood look, as the wood is old and cracked, but any finish works. This was a very time consuming task, as my propane torch has a very weak flame.

I just went over the front and sides with the torch, making sure that I wasn't burning more than the surface. After the burning I went over it with some fine-grit sandpaper, to smooth it out, and knock off any excess charcoal.

Make sure you are in a well ventilated area, with appropriate fire extinguishing equipment on hand.

I had some extra 1" nails lying around. Length isn't a big deal, as long as you have enough space for the string, and that they don't stick out the other side of the wood.

Pattern.

I didn't have a real plan or pattern, so I just started pretty randomly hammering in the nails. I did picture a couple basic shapes and patterns in my head, so I had a bit of an idea of what it was going to look like. If I make another one I'm going to try making it abstract and more complex.

Whack metal nails, not fingernails.

I didn't feel like making a proper system for hanging the string "art"... so I just took three pieces of yarn, twisted them together, and stapled each end to the back of the board. It's not very strong, but it's strong enough to hold the weight of the board.

You can use pretty much any string for this, as long as its not too thick. I used some leftover wool yarn and crochet string that my mum didn't want anymore (yes, I didn't illegally raid her supply box). I had to get some more colours of string than the ones in the picture, as I found them to be too bland for my taste. The knots are a little tricky sometimes, but I just did really simple ones, as this doesn't need to hold any weight.

This is the part where you can go wild with colours and patterns. Don't worry about making it perfect, you can call anything "art" now-a-days.

I am pretty happy with the outcome, although I'll try to make it a little more complex if I make some string art again.

If you have the time, I'd appreciate it if you'd drop a quick vote for me in the Rope & String Speed Challenge.

Thank you for reading my Instructable!