Creating A Wedding Cake Stand From Wood

A wedding cake stand made of wood is a great DIY project that can add a rustic touch to your special day. It is also a fun project for crafty brides-to-be who want to add a personal touch to their wedding festivities. All you need are some basic materials like wood circles, candle holders, paint, glue, and a few simple tools. The process involves sanding, measuring, gluing or drilling the pieces together, and then painting or staining the stand to your desired colour and finish. It is important to note that the wood finish needs to be food-safe, so make sure to follow the instructions and curing guidelines for your chosen wood stain or paint. With some creativity and effort, you can create a unique and beautiful wedding cake stand that will impress your guests and make your wedding cake even more memorable.

Sourcing the wood

For a rustic look, you can use wood from chopped-down trees. If you don't have access to freshly cut wood, you can purchase wooden plaques and candle holders from your local craft store or on Amazon.

When selecting your wood, consider the size of your cake stand. For a simple design, you'll need a base and a plate piece. The base should be tall enough to provide height to the cake stand, while the plate piece should be wide enough to accommodate the cake. For example, a base that is about 5 inches tall and 4 inches wide, and a plate piece that is 11 inches wide and 2 inches thick, can work well together.

If you're using unfinished wood, remember to sand any rough edges before you begin. Sanding will help create a smooth surface for painting or staining. After sanding, wipe off the grit with a clean, lint-free cloth.

Once you've sourced and prepared your wood, you can move on to the next steps of creating your wedding cake stand, such as assembling, painting, or staining.

Sanding and measuring

The first step in creating a wooden wedding cake stand is to prepare the wood by sanding and measuring. If you're using freshly cut wood, the pieces will likely be rough and uneven, so it's important to start by sanding them down to create a flat and even surface. Use a level to measure the pieces and continue sanding until they are level. This step is crucial to ensure the stability of your cake stand.

Once the pieces are sanded and level, you can move on to the next step of measuring and marking the wood for assembly. Use a ruler or measuring tape to measure the pieces and mark the locations for drilling or gluing. If you're attaching the pieces with screws, mark the locations for sinkholes and drilling. If using glue, carefully measure and mark the center of each piece to ensure proper alignment.

Take your time during the sanding and measuring process, as it is crucial to ensuring the stability and aesthetics of your final product. Once you're satisfied with the smoothness and evenness of the wood, you can move on to the next steps of assembly and finishing.

After the sanding process, it is important to wipe off any remaining grit or dust with a clean, lint-free cloth. This will ensure that your surface is ready for the next steps, whether that's painting, staining, or another type of finish. A thorough cleaning will also help you achieve a smoother and more professional-looking result.

Additionally, if you plan to stain or paint your cake stand, it is advisable to do a light sanding between coats. This will help create a smoother finish and enhance the overall appearance of your project. Remember to wipe away any dust or residue after sanding to prepare for the next coat.

Drilling and screwing

First, you will need to gather the necessary materials and cut the wood to the desired size and shape. In this case, you will need a base that is about 5 inches tall and 4 inches wide, and a plate piece that is 11 inches wide and 2 inches thick. You can use a drill press or an electric hand drill to make the holes in the wood.

Next, you will need to create sink holes and smaller screw holes. The sink holes should be drilled into the bottom of the base, and the screw holes should be smaller and go all the way through. The number and placement of the holes will depend on the size and shape of your wood pieces, so plan this step carefully.

Once the holes are drilled, line up the top of the base with the bottom of the plate piece. Take your time with this step to ensure that the pieces fit together well. Use an electric screwdriver to put the screws into the base until it attaches to the plate piece. Be careful not to screw too tightly, as you do not want the screws to go through the other side of the base.

After the base and plate are securely attached, you can sand the pieces again to ensure a smooth finish. You may also want to apply a protective finish, such as mineral oil or polyurethane sealant, to the plate to protect it from moisture and stains. This is especially important if you plan to use the cake stand for food.

Finally, let the cake stand cure for at least 30 days before using it. This will ensure that the finish is fully cured and food-safe. If you need to use the cake stand sooner, you can place a cardboard or wax paper circle underneath the cake to protect it from any potential toxins in the wood finish.

Painting and finishing

The painting and finishing process will transform your wooden cake stand, giving it a unique and elegant look. Here is a step-by-step guide to achieving a beautiful and food-safe finish:

Sanding and Preparation:

Start by lightly sanding the wooden pieces with sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges and create an even surface. Wipe off any dust or grit with a clean, lint-free cloth to prepare the surface for painting.

Painting:

Select your desired paint type, such as chalk paint or acrylic paint. Paint the entire cake stand with 1-2 coats of your chosen paint, allowing sufficient drying time between coats. Chalk paint tends to dry quickly and go on thick, so adjust your application as needed.

Clear Wax Application:

Apply a thin coat of clear wax to your cake stand using a wax brush. This step will add depth and an antique, vintage look to your piece. Wipe away any excess wax with a lint-free cloth or old cotton t-shirt, ensuring an even and smooth finish.

Dark Wax Application:

Before the clear wax dries completely, apply a thin coat of dark wax to the grooves, curves, and edges of your cake stand using a bristle brush. Don't be alarmed if it appears too dark at first. The next step will help you achieve the desired shade.

Distressing and Buffing:

Wipe away the excess dark wax until only a small amount remains in the distressed areas. This technique will create an antiquing effect, giving your cake stand a rustic and elegant charm. Allow your piece to rest overnight before buffing it to your desired sheen.

Sealing and Curing:

To protect your finish and ensure food safety, keep your cake stand free from moisture for at least seven days. Additionally, it is recommended to let your cake stand cure for approximately 30 days before using it with food. This extended curing period will ensure that the finish is fully cured and food-safe.

Your wooden wedding cake stand is now ready to shine on your dessert table! This unique and handcrafted piece will undoubtedly add a special touch to your wedding or any other special occasion. Enjoy the process of creating a stand-out cake stand and impress your guests with your craftsmanship.

Curing and care

Curing:

Allow sufficient time for the wooden cake stand to cure completely before its first use. The general rule of thumb is to wait for at least 30 days at room temperature. This extended period ensures that the finish is entirely cured and safe for direct food contact. If you are short on time, it is advisable to use a protective barrier, such as cardboard or wax paper, between the cake and the stand.

Care:

Once the curing process is complete, you can maintain and care for your wooden wedding cake stand with these simple steps:

• Hand wash only: Avoid using a dishwasher to clean the wooden cake stand. Instead, opt for gentle hand washing.
• Wet wipe to clean: For best results, use a damp cloth to wipe down the stand. Avoid submerging it in water or using harsh scrubbing tools that may damage the finish.
• Avoid harsh chemicals: When cleaning, opt for mild detergents or food-safe cleaning solutions. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaning products that may damage the wood or compromise food safety.
• Dry thoroughly: After washing, ensure that the stand is dried thoroughly. You can use a soft cloth to wipe away any remaining moisture.
• Regular oiling: Depending on the type of wood and finish used, you may need to reapply a food-safe oil or finish periodically to maintain its quality and appearance. This step will also help protect the wood and ensure it doesn't dry out or crack.
• Store in a dry place: Store your wooden cake stand in a cool, dry place when not in use. Avoid areas with high humidity to prevent mould or warping.
• Re-apply finish if necessary: If the finish on your wooden cake stand starts to wear off or becomes uneven, you may need to re-apply the finish. Follow the instructions for the specific finish you are using and ensure it cures completely before using the stand again.

By following these curing and care instructions, you can ensure that your wooden wedding cake stand remains in optimal condition, providing a beautiful and safe surface for your wedding cake.

Frequently asked questions