If you are the owner of a craft store, consider adding a little flair to your front door by adding a handmade sign. People enjoy seeing a bit of creativity when going to an establishment, and an open/closed sign can be made out of materials you have available around your store. Here are some instructions you can use to make your very own store window sign.

Start With The Base

Look around your store to see if you carry any wood pieces that still have tree bark on the edges. If not, you can cut a piece from a downed tree and still have the same effect. Look for a piece that has a good-sized diameter so you will be able to write on it so it will be large enough to be seen. Measure the width of your front door to use as a guideline. The wood slice's width should not be more than half the size of your door so it is not too heavy when people open and shut it.

Before using this wood slice for your sign, you will need to treat it so it does not decay or attract insects. This can be done by scrubbing the bark with a mild detergent mixed with water. Allow it to dry completely before working on the face of the wood slice.

Prepare The Surface

Use a piece of coarse grit sandpaper to smooth down both sides of the wood slice so there are no chances of getting splinters. It will also give you a smooth surface to work with when placing your wording. Continue the sanding process by switching to medium-grit and finally, fine-grit sandpaper. 

After your wood slice is sanded, it will need to be stained. This will bring out the natural beauty of the wood, while protecting it from moisture and physical damage from being bumped when the door opens and closes. Use whichever shade you feel would look nice against the backdrop of your door and apply it with a clean cloth. Rub it into the grain of the wood, mopping off excess color if necessary. After it dries, you will be able to add your wording.

Finish The Sign

Use a wood burner to etch the word "Open" on one side of your wood slice and "Closed" on the other. It is a good idea to write the word on the surface with chalk before using the burning equipment to make it permanent. This way you will have a guide to follow. After the words are written, apply a coating of polyurethane to each side of the wood slice to seal in the color.

Drill a hole through the top of your sign. String a bright-colored ribbon through the hole so you can hang the sign on your door. Any hook or bracket can be used on the door to carry the sign. If you want to make your sign even more decorative, glue on a few flowers, shells or decorative buttons. Contact a company like Vogue Sign Company for more sign ideas or to have custom signs made for your business.