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Contributing Writer
Discover the art of transforming everyday items into stunning home decor with this incredible DIY project. By using tightly rolled newspaper tubes, combined with just two additional ingredients, you can create faux-wood floating shelves that are not only eco-friendly but also incredibly stylish. This project offers a unique way to upcycle old newspapers, adding a rustic and contemporary touch to any space without breaking the bank.
These DIY faux-wood floating shelves seamlessly fit into a variety of home styles. For a modern look, pair them with sleek metallic accents and minimalistic decor items. In a rustic or farmhouse setting, complement the shelves with vintage finds or handmade pottery. Consider placing them above a cozy reading nook or use them to display a curated collection of books and plants in the living room to add texture and warmth.
3-Material Faux-Wood Floating Shelves
20 tightly rolled newspaper tubes
1 cup of wood glue
1 cup of dark wood stain
Sponge brush or old rag
Sandpaper (120 grit)
Wall brackets with screws
Begin by tightly rolling your newspaper into 20 solid tubes. Secure each tube with a small amount of glue to ensure they hold their shape.
Prepare a soaking solution by mixing equal parts wood glue and water in a wide container. Submerge the newspaper tubes in this mixture, ensuring they are fully coated.
Let the tubes soak for approximately 15 minutes. This will allow them to absorb the glue mixture, making them sturdy once dried.
Remove the tubes from the glue mixture and let them dry completely. This might take up to 24 hours.
Once dried, use sandpaper to gently smooth any rough edges or bumps on the surface of the tubes.
Apply a coat of dark wood stain using a sponge brush or an old rag. Make sure to cover all surfaces evenly. Allow the stain to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Once the stain is dry, arrange the tubes side by side and glue them together to form a solid shelf surface.
Attach wall brackets to the back of the assembled newspaper shelf using screws.
Securely mount the shelf on your desired wall location using appropriate wall anchors if necessary.
Variations & Tips
To personalize your faux-wood shelves, consider experimenting with different stains to match your home decor. Lighter stains can give a more Scandinavian feel, while a weathered grey stain can add an industrial edge. You could also embellish the shelves with decorative brackets or add hooks underneath for hanging items. For a more natural look, try wrapping some sections of the newspaper tubes with jute twine before staining.
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