wood veneer birds

In December, I shared my first project created with my Cricut Maker 3 – Downeast Thunder Farm birds made from wood veneer.

At the same time, I was working on another Cricut Maker 3 project that I couldn’t share until after Christmas. Inspired by round wood column lights spotted on Instagram, I started brainstorming how to create something similar.

I played with various designs, including woodland scenes with my birds and critters. Running out of time and not happy with my initial attempts, I found a vector file of wildflower online. I modified the design and added some butterflies to the mix. I first cut this out of paper – multiple times until I got the layout right.

I cut the final version of Maple wood paper (.025″ thick) purchased from www.realwoodpaper.com. Strips of Walnut veneer trim out the top and the bottom. I lined the inside with a sheet of vellum. I used hot glue to fasten the edges together and attach the trim. I’m not entirely happy with the results. The wood paper is so thin that it doesn’t hold the round shape. The next version needs an insert at the top and bottom (maybe a donut or circle of wood) to help keep the wood paper in shape.

I planned to set it over a battery-operated tea light candle. However, it didn’t cast enough light, so I put a short string of led lights inside. I may explore a small light bulb in the next generation.

I love the idea of the wood column light, but I have some ideas for improvement!