Happy Monday all! Sorry for the lack of projects around here recently; if you follow me on Instagram you may have picked up on the fact that I’ve been moving over the past two weeks. I’m happy to report that I’m finally starting to get settled and boy do I have a pretty great project to share with you today!
As much as I loved living in San Francisco, there’s something exciting about now having the space to use power tools. I tend to stick to simple projects and this one is really no exception. You might be thinking that because there’s a saw involved that it’s difficult, but I can assure you that’s not the case. Here’s how to make geometric photo holders:
What You’ll Need:
– Wood (I used a piece of pine that measured about .75″ in thickness)
– Saw or jigsaw
– Sandpaper
– Paint
– Pencil + ruler
You can do this project a number of ways depending on what tools you have available. I was lucky enough to have access to a scroll saw, but a handheld saw should give you the same results (with maybe just a little more sanding). Regardless of how you proceed, be careful!
How To:
First, draw the desired shaped onto your wood. I stuck with really basic geometric shapes since it was my first time using a jigsaw but feel free to get creative, especially if you have more experience! You’ll use these outlines as a guide when you’re cutting, so try to be as accurate as possible.
Once you’ve cut out your shape, make a small slit that runs horizontally across the top (where the photo will go), sand your wood to smooth out any unwanted bumps.
Paint or stain to finish. Add your photos and enjoy!
And if by chance wood is not your medium of choice (though I know you can totally do it!), try making these plaster photo blocks instead. Here’s also a simplified version of these DIY photo blocks that are great for any beginner!
*Also available for purchase here*






These are gorgeous – so bright and colourful!
Oh yay, so happy you like them Stephanie! They certainly do brighten up my desk :)
SO pretty! I love it!
Thank you so much MaDonna!!
So cute! I love breaking out the big tools :) My husband hates it because I am very clumsy though, like ER visit or two clumsy…, ha
Thanks Laurel! And girl, be safe! That’s so scary! That’s why I liked using the scroll saw; it’s relatively safe when it come to power tools :)
Oeh, i love them. The colours are so nice and bright :) Real eye-catchers!
Yay, thank you so much!
I love it!! And yay for using power tools ;) haha
Wooo! My first of many power tool projects to come I’m sure. I can see why you guys are addicted!
These are SO CUTE!!
Thank you so much Aileen! By far one of my favorite projects so far!
Extremely super cute. The colors and design are so striking!
Tell me about not having space… I dream about my future garage/shed/power tool land.
Glad to hear you’re settling in!! Those first few moments when the dust starts to clear a bit are always relieving.
Not having space is so limiting! Perhaps there’s a co-working space near your house? If not, you’re always welcome up north :) So happy you like the project Amy, thanks for the love!
Ah, I need a saw too. Love this project! Simple and beautiful :)
Highly recommended if you have the space! It’s like a whole new world just opened up, ya know? Thank you for your kind words!
These are so adorable! I really need to invest in some saws, I do stuff with wood all the time (and would do more if I didn’t have to hand-saw!). I love the shapes and colors you used, and how they match your website!
Yay, thanks Marlene! I’ve got a color palette, that’s for sure! And it’s amazing the types of projects you can do with a jigsaw (I’d recommend it if you’re thinking of investing). It also helps to know the blade isn’t going to cut off all my fingers :)
Home Depot is having a sale…thinking about it!
These are too cool. Love your style and your crafts keep me inspired. ;)
So sweet, thank you Melissa! Glad you like them :)
These look so fresh! I love the colours you chose!
Oh yay, so happy you like them Arielle!
YEAH! Just have to decide how I want to paint mine now. Thanks for hanging out so much with me when I was in Portland. I simply adore you and this blog!!!
Aww you sweet woman, you! I had a blast! Hopefully you come back soon!
P.S. The wood for your photo holders is sealed with a gel top coat so you shouldn’t have to seal it again if you should paint them! Might I suggest hot pink?