As I previously mentioned, Mr. R&R and I have been working on decorations for a very special wedding: burlap wrapped mason jars, scrap wood table markers, and even custom containers for bug repellent. The “rustic elegance” theme would not be complete without a unique guest book. I was struck with the idea of guests signing a wooden bench built by Mr. R&R.
Step one was finding a bench design. Mr. R&R settled on a simple clean-line bench made of 2×4’s. We found the instructions and free plans from DIY Candy.comon Pinterest. The easy-to-follow instructions took Mr. R&R about 3 hours to build the bench. Mr. R&R is quite the perfectionist when it comes to finish work and spent another 3 hours sanding the bench. He did not quit sanding until he was unable to feel the edges of the individual pieces of wood.
When the sanding was complete, I applied a custom vinyl monogram sticker to the center of the bench top. Mr. R&R applied the stain directly over the vinyl sticker. After the stain dried, the monogram sticker was removed to reveal the natural wood color (same process as the paisley-stenciled coffee table). Mr. R&R applied two coats of polyurethane to create a base level of protection.
Wedding guests were provided with classic black Sharpie markers to sign the bench. (Mr. R&R tested a scrap piece of wood pre- and post- poly and the marker worked well in both cases). After the wedding, the bench returned to Mr. R&R’s garage to apply the final coats of poly.
The newlyweds will have this bench for years to come. Unlike a guest book that can be misplaced, this bench will stand a constant reminder to the couple of the love and support they received on their wedding day and for years to come.
It’s GORGEOUS! What a thrill to see it here . . . looks awesome and love the addition of the initials. (Amy of DIY Candy)
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Great idea, nice looking bench. Looks well built to last a lifetime or more.
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