DIY Wooden String of Hearts A Simple & Elegant Home Decor Guide
Handmade decorations bring a unique warmth to a home that store-bought items simply cannot match. If you are looking for a budget-friendly, beginner woodworking project, the Wooden String of Hearts is the perfect choice.
This charming garland consists of five painted wooden hearts connected by rustic raffia bows and finished with elegant ribbon loops. Whether you want to celebrate Valentine’s Day, add some holiday cheer, or enhance your farmhouse aesthetic, this guide will show you how to create this project in just one afternoon.
Project Overview
Skill Level: Beginner-Friendly
Time Required: 1–2 Hours
Estimated Cost: Under $10
Purpose: Home Décor or Personalized Gifting
Complete Materials & Tools List
Before you start, gather these items to ensure a smooth crafting process. Most of these can be found at your local craft store or in your existing DIY kit.
Hardware & Tools
Power Drill: To create the connecting holes.
Drill Bits: You will need two sizes: ¹⁄₈ inch (for raffia) and ¼ inch for the hanging ribbon.
Scissors: Sharp fabric or craft scissors.
Paintbrush: A medium flat brush or a foam brush for even application.
Craft Supplies
5 Wooden Heart Cut-outs: Approximately 3 inches wide. Look for smooth, pre-sanded wood.
Acrylic Craft Paints: Choose colors that match your theme.
Raffia: Four 10-inch lengths (natural or dyed).
Ribbon: 2 yards of 1½-inch wide soft fabric ribbon (plaid, satin, or burlap).
2 Large Wooden Beads: Ensure the hole is large enough for the ribbon to pass through.
Customization: Color Schemes for Every Season
The beauty of this wooden handicraft is its versatility. By simply changing your palette, you can adapt the garland for any occasion:
| Valentine’s Day | Red, Pink, White | Pink Satin | Bedroom or Front Door |
| Christmas | Deep Red & Forest Green | Red Plaid | Mantle or Staircase |
| Patriotic | Red, White, Blue | Navy Striped | Porch or Entryway |
| Farmhouse Style | Natural Wood / Cream | Burlap or Twine | Kitchen or Living Room |
| Autumn | Rust, Amber, Gold | Orange Plaid | Dining Room Display |
Step-by-Step Assembly Instructions
Step 1: Drill the Placement Holes
Secure your wooden hearts. Using the ¹⁄₈ inch bit, drill a hole on both the left and right sides of every heart.
Exception: For the very first hole far left and the very last hole (far right) of the entire string, use the ¼ inch bit. These larger holes will accommodate the thick hanging ribbon.
Step 2: Paint and Finish
Apply your acrylic paint. Use thin, even coats to avoid drips.
Pro Tip: Don't forget to paint the edges and the backs for a professional, 360-degree finish. Let them dry completely; if you try to assemble while the paint is tacky, the raffia will stick and ruin the finish.
Step 3: Connect with Raffia
Line up your five hearts. Take a 10-inch piece of raffia and thread it through the adjacent small holes of two hearts. Tie a neat bow at the top. Repeat this until all five hearts are linked together by four raffia bows. Trim the ends of the bows for a tidy look.
Step 4: Attach the Hanging Ribbon
Cut your 2-yard ribbon into two equal lengths.
Fold one ribbon in half and thread the loop through the large hole on the outer heart.
Slide a wooden bead over both ends of the ribbon, pushing it down toward the heart.
Knot the ends of the ribbon to create a hanging loop.
Repeat this on the opposite side.
Step 5: Display Your Work
Your String of Hearts is ready Hang it over a doorway, along a fireplace mantle, or across a window frame. Space the hearts evenly so the garland drapes naturally.
Pro Painting Tips for a Professional Finish
Sand First: Even pre-sanded wood can have burrs. A quick rub with fine-grit sandpaper ensures the paint goes on like silk.
Thin is Better: Two thin coats are always superior to one thick, gloppy coat.
Seal the Surface: Once the paint is dry, apply a coat of Mod Podge or a clear acrylic sealer. This protects the wood from moisture and prevents the paint from chipping.
Add Detail: Once your base color is dry, use a toothpick or a fine brush to add white polka dots or gold trim for extra "pop."
💡 Important Notes for Readers
Safety Warning: Always secure your wood with a clamp before drilling. Never hold the wood in your hand while operating a power drill.
Pre-Drilling: Always drill before you paint. Drilling into a painted surface often causes the paint to chip or flake around the hole.
Outdoor Use: If you plan to hang this on a porch, you must use outdoor-grade varnish. Wood and raffia will degrade quickly if exposed to direct rain or humidity without protection.
Batch Making: This is an excellent project for craft fairs. To save time, drill and paint all your hearts in an "assembly line" fashion rather than finishing one string at a time.
References & Resources
