DIY Red, White, and Blue Door Hanger

DIY Patriotic Door Hanger for the Fourth of July

The Fourth of July is a time to celebrate American independence with friends, family, and festive decorations. A patriotic door hanger is a perfect way to add some holiday spirit to your home. This DIY project is simple, fun, and can be customized to suit your style. It can even be a full family task where everyone can be involved on the fun! Here’s how to make a beautiful wooden door hanger! Want these steps in a video instead? Check out the link below! 

Materials Needed

Before you start, gather all the materials you'll need for this project:

- Unfinished Wooden base: I used a 15in round wood plaque. (a wooden plaque or pre-cut wooden shape works well. I got mine as an unfinished wood base from Michaels, but the Dollar Store may have options too!)

- Sandpaper - I used a fine grain sand paper

- Acrylic paint in colors of your choice. I am going to be using white and blue.

- Paintbrushes

- Star templates (various sizes) *See my tip below on an easy way to get these templates at home!*

- Fabric or felt in red, white, and blue (I'm using fabric scraps I had on hand as well as some felt. Some craft stores have pre-cut felt stars you could use too!)

- Optional: Buttons/Decor - I used white buttons to add some textural difference. You can get packs of buttons at any craft store

- Scissors (if using fabric scraps, try pinking shears to prevent the fabric from fraying)

- Hot glue gun and glue sticks

- Ribbon or twine for hanging

- Optional: Mod Podge for waterproofing

Note: If you don't have any star templates, find a star through Google Search, turn the brightness up completely on your computer or tablet, and place a piece of paper over the screen. You can then trace the star and make a template!

Instructions

1. Prepare the Wooden Base

Start by gently sanding your wood base. This will help keep the wood smooth and help the paint to stick to the wood better. 

2. Paint the Wooden Base

Decide on a background color for your door hanger. I went with an ombre white to blue effect, but a single color will also create a great patriotic background. Apply acrylic paint evenly across the surface using a paintbrush. You may need to apply two to three coats for full coverage, allowing each coat to dry before applying the next.

3. Create and Cut Out Stars

While the base dries, prepare your stars. Use star templates to trace different sizes of stars onto the fabric or felt. Cut out the stars carefully with scissors. If using cotton material, pinking shears (zig-zag scissors) will help prevent your fabric from fraying. Mix and match the colors to create a fun pattern!

4. Arrange the Stars

Once the paint on your wooden base is completely dry, arrange the stars on the surface. Play around with the placement until you’re happy with the design. Consider layering the stars or clustering them in one area for a unique look! This can also be a place where you can decide if you want to add any text. If you do want to add some text, be sure to leave space between your star designs. 

5. Attach the Stars

Use a glue stick or hot glue gun to attach the stars to the wooden base. Be generous with the glue to ensure the stars are securely fixed. Press each star firmly for a few seconds to make sure it adheres well. I found that a glue stick worked well for the fabric and felt, but then the hot glue gun was needed for the buttons and decorations. Glue on any buttons or other decor at this time too. 

6. Optional Ideas

Once your fabric stars are glued on, you can add any text, extra decor or glitter to your design! 

- Add Text: Use stencils or freehand paint to add a patriotic message like "USA," "Freedom," or "Happy 4th!"

- Use Glitter: For extra sparkle, consider adding glitter to your stars before attaching them.

- Try Wreath Decor: Some stores have pompoms and other decorations that you could add to your sign!

- Add Flowers: Try adding some fake red, white, and blue flowers to give it a more floral look!

7. Optional: Attach the Hanging Ribbon

If your wood board did not come with a ribbon or twine to hang it, cut a length of ribbon or twine that suits the height you want your door hanger to hang. Attach it to the back of the wooden base using hot glue. Ensure it’s securely attached so it can support the weight of your door hanger. Mine came with one included. 

8. Display!

Your patriotic door hanger is now ready to be displayed! Hang it on your front door or porch! 

9. Optional: Waterproofing

If your door hanger is going to be exposed rain, you can seal the entire piece in Mod Podge or another water proofing material. This step is optional, but it can help protect your door hanger! When adding Mod Podge, allow it to dry completely. 

Making a DIY door hanger for the Fourth of July is a fun project that let's you get ready for summer. With a few simple materials and a bit of creativity, you can craft a beautiful decoration that showcases your patriotic pride. Happy crafting and happy Fourth of July!

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