Before you start
Read the user manual and paint labels. Check each natural wood slice for loose bark or damage before choosing it. Its pre-drilled hole is already the hanging point. This tutorial makes a decorative ornament; the paint and markers are not being used for food-contact items.
At the craft table
The listing warns of small parts and says the kit is not for children under 3. Follow all package guidance and supervise tools as appropriate. Use permanent markers with ventilation as their labels direct. Keep wood, ribbon, and painted ornaments away from flames and heat.
Make it step by step
Choose a sound slice and its orientation
Select a wood slice with a clear hanging hole and a face you like. Brush away loose bark debris gently with a dry cloth. Place it with the hole at the top and avoid picking at the bark edge, which can be fragile.
Plan a compact design
Sketch a name, a tree, or a simple winter pattern on scrap paper at roughly the slice’s size. Leave space around the hanging hole and bark. A large central shape with a short name or date usually fits more comfortably than many tiny details.
Paint a thin background or main shape
Use a lightly loaded brush to add a background area or paint your main shape directly on the wood. Follow the grain where it helps the brush move smoothly. Keep paint out of the hanging hole and avoid wetting the bark with pooled paint.
Let each painted layer dry
Rest the slice flat until the paint is ready for another layer according to its label. Add a second thin coat only where you want stronger coverage. If painting both sides, finish and dry the first side before turning it onto a clean protective surface.
Add stencil or marker details
For a stencil, hold it flat and use very little paint so color does not flood beneath its edge, then lift it carefully. For lettering or line details, use a kit marker only after the painted layer is fully dry. Keep your hand off freshly marked areas.
Inspect the dry design
Check the lettering, edges, and hanging hole after drying as directed. Touch up a missed painted spot with a small amount of paint if needed, then let that touch-up dry. Make sure the hole remains clear rather than pushing through wet paint.
Thread and tie the hanger
Cut a length of jute twine or ribbon that leaves room for a hanging loop. Pass it through the existing hole, using a supplied threader according to the manual if helpful. Tie the hanger as directed and test it over the table with a gentle lift.
Make it your own
Leave some wood visible for a simple natural look.
Use a nearly dry brush with stencils to reduce paint creeping underneath.
Put the name or date away from the hole so the hanger does not obscure it.
Common fixes
Paint bleeds under a stencil.
Let it dry, then correct the edge with a small brush if desired. Use less paint and keep the stencil flat for the next slice.
The wood edge sheds bark.
Remove only loose debris gently. Choose another slice if the edge feels unstable, and avoid soaking or picking at the bark.
Finish & enjoy
Wait for paint and marker drying as directed before hanging. Check the knot, display the ornament indoors, and store it separately from heavy ornaments that could crush the bark edge.
