Diy Wedding Cake Stand: Elevate Your Cake, Elevate Your Day

There are many ways to make a wedding cake stand at home, and it can be an easy and fun DIY project. One option is to use a wooden candlestick and wooden plaques, gluing them together and painting them with chalk paint for a rustic look. Another idea is to use a slice of log as a base, adding height with legs for a rustic wedding. For a more elegant look, you can use a plate, a candlestick, and industrial-sized glue to create a simple yet effective cake stand. If you want to get creative, you can even use vintage chandeliers or light fixtures to make a unique and interesting cake stand. With a bit of creativity and some basic materials, you can easily make a wedding cake stand at home that suits your style and budget.

Using a plate, candlestick and glue

Making a wedding cake stand at home is a simple and inexpensive project. You can use a plate, a candlestick, and some strong glue to create a beautiful and sturdy cake stand. Here's a step-by-step guide to making your own wedding cake stand:

Materials:

• A plate (preferably a dinner plate or a larger plate for a wedding cake)
• A candlestick
• Strong glue (such as Gorilla Glue or E6000 industrial-strength adhesive)

Instructions:

• Prepare the candlestick and plate: Ensure that the candlestick and plate are clean and dry. Remove any stickers or residue from the surfaces.
• Apply the glue: Turn the candlestick upside down and apply a generous amount of glue to the bottom, which will be the point of contact with the plate.
• Attach the plate: Turn the plate upside down and find the centre. Carefully align the glued area of the candlestick with the centre of the plate and press down firmly.
• Let it dry: Follow the glue manufacturer's instructions for drying and curing times. This step may take longer than 10 minutes, so be sure to allow adequate time for the glue to set properly.

You can find plates and candlesticks at thrift stores or local shops. This project is an excellent way to create a unique and personalised wedding cake stand while staying within your budget.

Making a stand from a log slice

Selecting the Right Log

The first step is to choose the right log for your project. Look for a log that is relatively dry and free of any bugs or mould. If you're cutting your own log slice, allow plenty of time for the wood to dry and cure to prevent any issues with mould or cracking. It's important to select a log that is wide enough to comfortably accommodate your cake.

Flattening the Log Slice

Once you have your log slice, it's time to flatten it. Use a router flattening sled to flatten the surface of the log slice. This process will ensure your cake stand is stable and level. Make sure to wear the appropriate safety gear, such as a respirator and face shield, as flattening the log will create a lot of dust and debris.

Sanding and Finishing

After flattening, sand the log slice to smooth out the surface. Start with 80-grit sandpaper and then move to 120-grit for a smoother finish. Once you're happy with the smoothness, it's time to apply a finish. You can use walnut oil or butcher block oil to seal and protect the wood. These finishes will enhance the natural grain of the wood and give it a beautiful lustre.

Adding Engravings or Personalised Details

If you want to add a personalised touch to your log slice cake stand, consider engraving it. You can use a laser engraver to etch the couple's names, wedding date, or a monogram. If you don't have access to a laser engraver, you can also attach a piece of engraved leather to the side of the stand using decorative tacks.

Ensuring Food Safety

When using a log slice as a cake stand, it's crucial to ensure food safety. Do not place the cake directly on the stand without treating the wood first. Use food-safe finishes like butcher block oil or food-grade sealants to create a barrier between the wood and the cake. Allow ample time for the finish to dry and cure before placing the cake on the stand.

Assembling the Cake Stand

To assemble the cake stand, you'll need to attach the log slice to a base. You can use an old candle tin, a wooden pedestal, or a simple candlestick. Mark and drill holes in both the base and the log slice, making sure they are aligned. Use screws to attach the two pieces together, adding washers for additional support if needed.

Your DIY log slice cake stand is now ready to be used! Place it in the centre of your table and decorate it with simple greenery and flowers to create a stunning rustic-meets-glam display for your wedding cake.

Using a plate, candle holder and wooden plaque

Making your own wedding cake stand is a fun and easy DIY project. Here's a step-by-step guide using a plate, candle holder, and wooden plaque:

Materials:

• Plate (choose a sturdy serving plate that's large enough to hold your cake)
• Candle holder (a solid candlestick to support the weight of the cake)
• Wooden plaque (to form the base of your cake stand)
• Industrial-sized glue or strong adhesive
• Sandpaper (if using unfinished wood)
• Paint and paintbrushes (optional, for decoration)
• Wax (optional, for an antique finish)

Instructions:

• Prepare your wooden plaque by lightly sanding any rough edges with sandpaper. This step is especially important if you're using unfinished wood. Wipe away any dust with a clean cloth.
• Assemble your cake stand by attaching the candle holder to the centre of the wooden plaque using wood glue. Ensure the candle holder is positioned securely and evenly.
• Place a weight on the bottom of the candlestick and let the glue dry overnight with the stand upside down.
• (Optional) Decorate your cake stand by painting it with your chosen colours. You can use chalk paint for a smooth, soft finish. Apply 1-2 coats, allowing sufficient drying time between coats.
• (Optional) For an antique, vintage look, apply a thin coat of clear wax over the painted surface. Use a wax brush and then wipe away the excess with a lint-free cloth.
• (Optional) Before the clear wax dries completely, apply a thin coat of dark wax to the grooves and edges of the plaque and candle holder for added depth and character.
• Allow your DIY cake stand to rest and cure overnight before buffing it to your desired sheen.
• To protect the finish and ensure longevity, keep your cake stand free from moisture for at least 7 days.

Feel free to customise your cake stand further by adding decorations, liners, or beaded accents. Enjoy creating your unique wedding cake stand!

Using a wire stand

Wire stands are a great option for wedding cake stands as they give the effect of more space since you can see through them. They also come in an array of colours and heights, so you can easily find one that matches your wedding theme and colour scheme.

To make a wedding cake stand using a wire stand, you will need to first decide on the height and colour of the stand. You can either buy a ready-made wire stand or make one yourself if you're feeling crafty. If you choose to make your own, you can use materials such as metal or wooden dowels and wire to create the structure. Just be sure to measure the size of your cake so that the stand is proportionate.

Once you have your wire stand, you can decorate it to match your wedding theme. You can wrap the wires with flowers, greenery, or ribbon to add a romantic or rustic touch. If you want a more glamorous look, you can even wrap fairy lights around the wires to make your cake stand literally shine.

Another idea is to place your wire stand on top of a sturdy base, such as a wooden slice or a mirror, to add stability and create a more cohesive look. This can also help to elevate your cake stand, making it a true centrepiece at your wedding reception.

Lastly, don't forget to place a simple cake board underneath your cake before putting it on the stand, for hygienic purposes.

Using a bowl-like stand for smaller cakes

To create a bowl-like cake stand, you will need a large glass bowl and a glass plate. You can find these items at your local thrift store or dollar store. Turn the bowl over and run a thick bead of hot glue around the bottom. Then, flip it over again and centre it on the bottom of the glass plate, pushing gently to attach the bowl to the plate. And just like that, you have a cake stand!

If you want to add a dome cover to your cake stand, simply take a glass bowl and a cabinet pull. Apply hot glue to the centre of the bowl and attach the cabinet pull. However, be very careful when lifting as the bond may not be very strong. For a stronger bond, use E6000 adhesive instead of hot glue.

This type of cake stand is perfect for smaller cakes or even cupcakes. It will add a touch of elegance to your dessert table and is sure to impress your guests. So, if you're looking for a simple and inexpensive way to display your wedding cake, consider making your own bowl-like cake stand at home.

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