Rustic Bonsai Tree Shelf/Rack
When you prune a tree don't just throw out or burn the limbs look for unique ways to use them, We have a lot of fun doing this, and its a great way to recycle and make something useful!
Tree Pruning
I followed my dad out to the orchard where he was pruning some overgrown autumn olive bushes and found a piece with a lot more branches coming from the main trunk than usual. I had been wanting a shelf/rack for my doll clothes business, as part of the display, and this was the perfect thing for it!
After pruning it to the right length and shape, I power washed it to remove the bark and cambium. Using a Turbo Nozzle, which works best to remove the bark.
After shaving off the limb nubs with my carpenter's knife, I borrowed my little brother's multi-tool and sanded all the rough and sharp spots.
Marking It at the angle I want, and cut it, borrowing my little brother's tools again. :-)
Make sure it will sit flat.
The Bottom Mount
I would have used a slice of the trunk for the bottom normally, but it would not have been big or heavy enough, so I used instead of some cedar boards leftover from another project.
I cut them to a size that would make it heavy enough so that it won't tip over easily.
Finding the middle of the mounting board I marked lightly around the tree trunk so I would know where to pilot hole.
Drill a pilot hole in the trunk also, then place a screw so that the tip is showing thru the other side of the bottom mount. Line up the screw with the hole in the trunk and screw them together.
Center the last board and screw it in the corners.
I will seal it later on when the wood dries fully.
I also added a removable shelf that sits firmly in the branches.
Finished!
The dolls all went shopping for new dresses.
Have any questions? or constructive comments? I will be very happy to hear from you.
Great way to "think green" and recycle. Your imagination is the limit! Be Creative, Original, Enjoy and most of all have fun!!!
Ecclesiastes 3:1 To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven...