Creating A Beautiful Wedding Altar Cross

A wedding altar cross is a meaningful addition to a wedding ceremony. Whether you're looking to buy or build one, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the type of wood you use will impact the overall look and feel of the cross. While pine is a common choice, other types like cedar offer a lighter colour and are easier to work with. If you're short on time and tools, a simple design using pre-sanded wood and basic joints will do the trick. However, if you're after a more substantial cross, you may want to opt for thicker wood and beefier brackets to ensure stability. Don't forget to add your personal touches, whether it's a rugged texture, a darker finish, or even some carvings, to make it truly unique.

Choosing the right wood

Hardwood vs. Softwood

The first decision you need to make is whether to use hardwood or softwood. Hardwoods come from deciduous trees that lose their leaves in autumn and are generally denser, stronger, and more expensive. Softwoods, on the other hand, come from cone-bearing trees like pine and fir, and are more affordable but softer. For a wedding altar cross, you might want to consider a hardwood for its strength and durability, especially if you plan to use it outdoors or in a high-traffic area.

Dimensional Stability

It's important to choose wood that is dimensionally stable, meaning it won't warp or twist over time. Look for quartersawn wood, which has vertical end grain and greater stability. This type of wood is less susceptible to movement caused by changes in humidity. If you're using flat-sawn wood, make sure to store it properly with stickers between the boards to prevent twisting and cupping.

Wood Milling Cuts

Understanding the different wood milling cuts can help you select the most stable wood for your project. Quartersawn wood, with its vertical grain, is the most stable option. Rift-sawn wood, with a straight face grain pattern, is also stable but less common. Flat-sawn wood is the least stable and more prone to movement, so it may not be the best choice for a long-lasting wedding altar cross.

Lumber Defects

When choosing your wood, try to avoid common defects such as knots, sapwood, and insect holes. These can weaken the wood and make it more difficult to work with. Check for any signs of wood movement defects like checking (splitting), twisting, cupping, or bowing. These issues can affect the stability of your cross and may require extra work to correct.

Moisture Content

Consider the moisture content of the wood, especially if you're using it for an outdoor wedding altar cross. Wood with a lower moisture content, typically below 10%, is less likely to warp or crack over time. Using a moisture meter can help you determine the moisture level of the wood before purchasing it.

Type of Wood

Now, let's look at some specific types of wood that are commonly used for projects like a wedding altar cross:

• Oak: Oak is a popular hardwood that is often used in construction, furniture, and cabinetry. White oak is particularly resistant to moisture and warping, making it a good choice for outdoor projects. It has a visible wavy grain that can be highlighted with a clear finish.
• Cherry: Cherry is a strong and versatile hardwood with a reddish-brown color. It is ideal for indoor construction and furniture but tends to be more expensive due to eco-friendly harvesting methods. Cherry finishes well and ages beautifully.
• Maple: Maple is a light-colored hardwood that is easy to carve and manipulate. It stains easily and can be used to resemble other types of wood. Maple is commonly used for musical instruments and interior items like cabinets and dressers.
• Hickory: Hickory is a heavy hardwood with a wavy grain that can be challenging to work with. It is traditionally used for rustic furniture and wagon parts due to its flexibility and durability.
• Walnut: Walnut is a high-end hardwood with a straight grain and a rich color. It is commonly used for interior trim, accents, and furniture.
• Pine: Pine is an affordable softwood often used for indoor projects like window sills and door frames. It has a straight grain and varies in color from pale to yellowish. Make sure to use seasoned pine to prevent warping in your finished project.
• Cedar: Cedar is a soft, aromatic softwood that is lightweight and easy to work with. It is naturally resistant to decay and insects, making it ideal for outdoor projects like fencing, posts, and closets. Cedar is commonly used for its pleasant scent.
• Mahogany: Mahogany is an exotic hardwood that is endangered and not as commonly used nowadays. It has a beautiful color and figuring, and it is known for its resistance to rotting and decay.
• Teak: Teak is another exotic hardwood that is expensive and challenging to work with due to its oily finish. It has a distinct earthy scent and is often used for boat building.

Cutting the wood to size

The first step in making a wedding altar cross is to decide on the type of wood you want to use. In my case, I chose Western Red Cedar because it is lightweight, strong, resistant to decay, and easy to work with. You may need to special order this type of wood from your local home improvement or building supply store. Alternatively, you could use another type of wood such as pine.

Once you have selected the type of wood, you need to determine the dimensions of the cross. I used a 4" x 6" x 120" board for the vertical beam and a 4" x 6" x 72" board for the horizontal beam. You can also use 6" x 6" beams, but keep in mind that the bigger the beams, the heavier the cross will be.

When cutting the wood to size, it is important to use the right tools. A handheld circular saw or a miter saw can be used to make straight cuts, while a jigsaw or bandsaw can be used for curved cuts. If you don't have access to power tools, you can also use a handsaw, but it will take longer and require more effort.

Before cutting, mark the wood with a pencil to indicate where the cuts should be made. It is important to measure twice and cut once to ensure accuracy. If you are using a power tool, make sure you are confident in your ability to control the saw and always wear the appropriate safety gear, including eye and ear protection.

When cutting the wood, it is a good idea to have a helper to support the wood and keep it steady. Start by cutting the vertical beam to the desired length. Then, cut the horizontal beam, making sure it is slightly shorter than the vertical beam to create the typical Latin-style cross shape.

If you want the crossbeam to sit slightly proud of the vertical beam (rather than being flush), you will need to cut a notch in the vertical beam for the half-lap joint. This can be done using a handheld circular saw to make a series of cuts across the wood, and then using a chisel to remove the excess material and clean up the notch. The notch should be approximately 6" wide and 2" deep, but you may need to adjust these measurements depending on the actual width of the boards you are using.

Once the cuts are complete, take the time to sand the wood to smooth out any rough edges and create a clean finish. This will also help prepare the wood for staining or painting, if you choose to add a finish to your cross.

Joining the wood together

Cutting the Notches:

Start by cutting the notches for the half-lap joint, which will connect the horizontal and vertical beams. Use a handheld circular saw to cut out the notches, adjusting the blade depth to 2 inches. Make a series of cuts across the wood and use a chisel to remove them and clean up the notch. Create a notch that is approximately 6 inches wide and 2 inches deep for both beams. Lay one beam over the other and mark the pencil marks for a perfect fit.

Drilling Holes for Lag Bolts:

Use two 5-inch lag bolts to securely hold the beams together. Insert the lag bolts into the holes and tighten the nuts on the other side with a wrench. Place the head of the lag bolts on the front face of the cross for easy assembly and disassembly. A corded drill with a 1/2 inch drill bit will be useful for this step. You may need to ream out the holes slightly to accommodate the lag bolts.

Attaching the Crossbeam:

For a more substantial look, consider using beefy hex bolts to attach the crossbeam. Select a drill bit that matches the width of the bolt body, excluding the threads. Drill pilot holes first with a smaller bit, and then gradually increase the bit size until you reach the desired diameter. Screw in the hex bolts with a socket wrench.

Attaching the Base Brackets:

Ensure the cross is level by sanding the bottom and standing it up several times until it is stable. Sand the end faces and edges of the cross to create a slightly uneven, distressed look. Purchase construction brackets that are large enough to provide adequate support. Mark the bracket holes with a pencil, and then drill holes using the appropriate drill bits. Screw in the bolts with washers for added stability.

Quick Countersinking:

For a neat finish, use the drill in reverse to create a quick countersink. Put the drill into full reverse and press the bit gently into the wood to create a slight indentation.

Building the Base:

If the brackets don't provide enough stability, build a simple base using a halved joint with 2x4 wood pieces. Cut the notches with a circular saw and chisel, and then assemble the pieces together. Drill holes and screw in brackets to reinforce the joint. Sand the base for a smooth finish and round the edges for a refined look.

By following these steps, you will be able to securely join the wood pieces together to create a solid and visually appealing wedding altar cross.

Sanding and finishing the wood

Sanding the Wood:

• Start by using a belt sander to smooth down the rough wood. This step is time-consuming and tedious, but it is essential to creating a clean, smooth surface for the stain to adhere properly. Be prepared to spend a significant amount of time on this step, as it will likely take longer than expected.
• If you encounter any splinters during the sanding process, be sure to remove them carefully to ensure a smooth finish.
• Once the majority of the sanding is done with the belt sander, switch to a pneumatic orbital sander for a finer finish. This tool will help you reach the nooks and crannies of the wood, creating a consistent smoothness across the entire surface.
• Pay close attention to the edges of the wood. You want them to have a slightly uneven, distressed look while still being smooth to the touch.
• After sanding, use a fine paintbrush to remove any remaining dust or debris from the cracks and crevices of the wood. This step will ensure that the stain applies evenly and effectively.

Finishing the Wood:

• Choose a stain colour that complements the wedding theme and the desired look of the cross. For a richer and warmer appearance, consider using a stain like Minwax's Gunstock colour.
• Apply two coats of the stain to the wood, allowing sufficient drying time between coats. This will enhance the colour and provide a durable finish.
• When applying the stain, work in a well-ventilated area and lay the wood flat to prevent dripping. Be cautious of leaving fingerprints or marks on the wood during this process.
• After the stain has dried, apply a few coats of paste wax to protect the finish and add a subtle shine. You can adjust the level of shine by polishing the wax to your desired effect.
• If you prefer a more rugged or distressed look for the cross, consider using an angle grinder to add texture to the wood before staining. This tool will create a unique, rustic appearance.
• Remember to wear protective gear, such as gloves, eye protection, and a dust mask, throughout the sanding and finishing process to ensure your safety.

By following these steps and paying attention to the details, you will create a stunning wedding altar cross that will be a memorable part of the ceremony.

Building a base for the cross

Planning the Base:

Start by determining the desired height of your cross. For a striking visual impact, consider making it tall enough so that everyone in the audience can see it clearly. The width of the cross should also be proportional to its height, typically aiming for a ratio of 4:2:1. This means that if your cross is 10 feet tall, the center of the crossbeam should be placed 30 inches from the top.

Choosing the Right Materials:

For the base, select a sturdy type of wood such as 2x4 wooden boards, which are commonly available at local hardware stores. If you want to add weight and stability, consider using thicker boards like 4x4s. Additionally, you'll need construction brackets, preferably heavy-duty galvanized steel corner braces that are at least 6 to 8 inches long. These brackets will play a crucial role in securing the different components of the base.

Assembling the Base:

Begin by cutting the wooden boards to the desired length. A standard 8-foot-long 2x4 board can be cut in half, resulting in two 4-foot-long pieces. You can then create a halved joint by cutting the sides of the notch with a circular saw and chiselling out the remaining wood to form a nice, clean cube. Repeat this process for the other half of the board.

Once you have two notched pieces, put them together, ensuring they are flush with each other. This will form the basic structure of your base. You can round off the edges of the base for a more refined look, especially if it will be visible during the ceremony.

Attaching the Base to the Cross:

Before securing the base to the cross, ensure that the cross is level by sanding the bottom and testing it a few times. You may also want to sand the end faces of the cross to ensure they are square and give the edges a slightly uneven, distressed look.

Now, attach the construction brackets to the base. Line them up and use a pencil to mark the holes. Drill pilot holes with a smaller bit first, and then gradually increase the bit size until you reach the appropriate depth for the brackets' screws. Secure the brackets with washers to distribute the weight evenly.

Finally, place the cross upright on the assembled base and screw in the remaining brackets to connect the two structures securely.

Additional Tips:

• If you want to disguise the metal brackets, consider painting them with modelling paint that matches the colour of the wood.
• To enhance stability, especially if the cross is top-heavy, consider using sandbags or anchoring the base to the ground, especially if the ceremony is outdoors.
• For added safety, it is recommended to set up the cross a day before the ceremony and have someone help you to ensure it is stable and won't tip over.

Building a base for a wedding altar cross requires careful planning, the right materials, and a step-by-step assembly process. By following these instructions, you can create a sturdy and visually appealing base that complements the cross and ensures a safe and memorable wedding ceremony.

Frequently asked questions