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DIY Branch Slice Backdrop

DIY Branch Slice Backdrop

We’re always fans of mixing high and low elements in wedding design, and this backdrop made of natural wood slices and gold leaf is a prime example of how beautifully the two can work together. Kathryn Godwin of Studio Cultivate is here to share all the details behind this DIY branch slice backdrop, with help from Brian Schindler behind the camera!

DIY branch slice backdrop - photo by Brian Schindler https://ruffledblog.com/diy-branch-slice-backdrop

DIY branch slice backdrop - photo by Brian Schindler https://ruffledblog.com/diy-branch-slice-backdrop

For this project, you will need:
-branch slices (you can find these on etsy or ebay, or if you know how to use a miter saw, then find a branch in your backyard!)
-spray adhesive
-gold leaf
-jute or gold twine
-drill
-1/8″ drill bit
-scissors
-tapestry needle

DIY branch slice backdrop - photo by Brian Schindler https://ruffledblog.com/diy-branch-slice-backdrop

Instructions:
1. Drill two holes on opposite ends of branch slice.

DIY branch slice backdrop - photo by Brian Schindler https://ruffledblog.com/diy-branch-slice-backdrop

DIY branch slice backdrop - photo by Brian Schindler https://ruffledblog.com/diy-branch-slice-backdrop

2. Measure twine to length you would like your backdrop to be.

3. Use a tapestry needle to thread gold twine through both holes.

DIY branch slice backdrop - photo by Brian Schindler https://ruffledblog.com/diy-branch-slice-backdrop

4. Tie a knot at the top hole.

DIY branch slice backdrop - photo by Brian Schindler https://ruffledblog.com/diy-branch-slice-backdrop

5. Thread the next slice, keeping them about 1.5″ apart, continue steps 2 & 3.

DIY branch slice backdrop - photo by Brian Schindler https://ruffledblog.com/diy-branch-slice-backdrop

6. Use spray adhesive on section you would like to apply gold leaf- hold can about 8″ away. We created a diagonal stripe with our gold leaf application that spans the width of the backdrop.

DIY branch slice backdrop - photo by Brian Schindler https://ruffledblog.com/diy-branch-slice-backdrop

7. Gently apply a sheet of gold leaf to slice, using the tissue paper layers to help smooth the leaf sheet.

DIY branch slice backdrop - photo by Brian Schindler https://ruffledblog.com/diy-branch-slice-backdrop

DIY branch slice backdrop - photo by Brian Schindler https://ruffledblog.com/diy-branch-slice-backdrop

8. Suspend from rod or arch, allow ends to vary in length for a soft organic finish.

DIY branch slice backdrop - photo by Brian Schindler https://ruffledblog.com/diy-branch-slice-backdrop

DIY branch slice backdrop - photo by Brian Schindler https://ruffledblog.com/diy-branch-slice-backdrop

slitted wedding dress - photo by Brian Schindler https://ruffledblog.com/diy-branch-slice-backdrop

View all step-by-step images from this tutorial in the gallery

View Comments (2)
  • I love this backdrop and the bit of glamour by adding the gold leaf. This is a piece I would hang in my house year round!

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