Surprisingly, there are not a lot of DIY string art patterns readily available on the internet. The lack of simple templates means that you cannot download and apply patterns you wish to use. Art is extremely therapeutic and we believe that on days when you feel like grabbing some yarn and needles, nothing should stop you.
Back in the 70s, string art was super popular. However, with the advent of touch-screen mobile phones and laptops, string art patterns saw a generational shift. Yet, there are many old-school individuals who enjoy string art since it does not need too many materials and is an economical way to add some personality to your house. You can make your own patterns and hang them on walls without having to take art courses- how cool is that?
What You Will Need to Make String Art Patterns
12” x 12” Block of Soft Wood
Even though you can choose to use a block of wood of any size, we believe that the 12” x 12” size is handy.
However, do not go smaller than 8” x 8” because you need the center to be big enough so that the nails can comfortably go into the block of wood.
Paint or Stain
The block of soft wood that we will use to make string art patterns needs to be prepared. You can choose to buy wood that is already painted.
However, if you cannot find it, you can always paint it yourself to ensure that the wood is sturdy enough and does not fall apart when you are putting in nails. You can simply use acrylic craft paints.
Linoleum Nails
When shopping for nails, it is essential to look for those that are relatively short. This is because longer nails will stick out of the wooden board from the back or stand too high from the front.
There is no denying that when making string art patterns, holding small nails can become a hassle. However, all you need are some jewelry pliers to make your project easier. Try to look for nails with bigger heads so that the yarn does not keep shifting.
Patterns
Whether you are looking for a start or heart pattern, you will find loads of different designs on Pinterest.
If you choose to start off with a basic heart, all you have to do is take a piece of paper and fold it in half. Then, draw out half a heart, carefully cut on the line, and voila! You have a perfect heart to work on.
Pencil or Marker
You can buy any pencil or marker available in the market. The only thing you need to keep in mind is that the tip needs to be thin enough to make small, accurate marks on the piece of wood.
Ruler
Try to find a ruler that is as wide as the wood you have chosen. However, even if you find a smaller ruler, it will do.
The only difference is that you will have to work a little harder.
Small Hammer
When buying a hammer, remember not to buy one that is too big. A bigger hammer is not needed for this project.
Hold the hammer in your hand and wrap your fingers around it. Remember that you are going to use this for very small nails.
Jewelry Pliers
The nails used to make string art patterns are very small and delicate. It can get frustrating to work with them unless you have some jewelry pliers available on hand.
Getting the nails in straight in the piece of wood is difficult, but with these pliers, we believe that you will genuinely enjoy the process of creating art.
Yarn
You may think that embroidery thread will work with this project, but we assure you that you will be highly disappointed. Even though you may be able to see the thread and determine its color, it does not really matter when making string art patterns.
Do yourself a favor and select some good-quality yarn. If you do not know much about yarn, simply choose a yarn with a number 3 on the back. This indicates that it is thick, yet not extremely thick- perfect to make some string art.
Hanging Hardware
When you buy a piece of wood to work on, where will you hand it? This is why you need some hanging hardware.
If you cannot find this at a craft store, simply use some hanger. YouTube DIY ways to hang wood without hanging hardware.
String Art Kit
String art patterns are difficult for children to maneuver. However, it is a great activity that can entertain children and adults alike.
If you want to spend some quality time with your kids and get them interested in art, we would suggest that you buy a string art kit. This way, your kids will not be fully dependent on you and will be able to complete tasks on their own as well.
Making String Art Patterns
Step 1
First, start by preparing your wood with paint or stain. This is crucial to ensure that the wood does not get scratched or does not end up breaking while you hammer nails into it.
If you cannot find paint, find a solid block of wood that is pre-painted.
Step 2
Get your hanging hardware out and hand it to the back of the board.
Step 3
Prepare yourself as now, we will start making the patterns. Cut out the string art pattern and put it on the board. If you feel like the pattern will fall off, simply use some double-sided tape.
Depending on how smooth your wood is, slippage could or could not be a problem.
Step 4
Taking your market or pencil, create small marks or dots on the outside of the pattern. Make sure to cover all sides of the pattern.
Measure the dots out so that they are 1/3 inches away from each other. You can even eyeball this if you feel confident enough.
Step 5
Now, it is time to place the nails around the board.
Make sure these are ½ inch apart from each other all the way around the board.
Step 6
Get rid of the pattern for now and start putting your nails in with the help of the hammer. You can start on the center and work your way to the outer surface.
The ring around the outer surface can be completed in the end.
Step 7
To make this process easier, make use of your jewelry pliers to secure the nails. Without these, the nails end up getting crooked so pliers help keep them straight.
However, do not stress too much- your nails do not need to be completely erect. Even they get a little bent, your project will still be perfect.
Step 8
Even if your nails are not completely aligned with the dots you had previously made, do not panic.
You can adjust the nails depending on how your string art progresses.
Step 9
Start stringing the yarn by securing it to a nail. To make this easier, start and stop in the outside ring. Do not try to complicate the process of tying the yarn- think of it like tying your shoelaces.
This is called a square knot. However, make double knots so that the yard does not come apart in the future.
Step 10
Now, all you have to do is continue to string the yard forwards and backwards between each nail located on the outer and inner portion. Sometimes, you will need to wrap the yard around two nails at once before going towards the outer nail.
This may sound a little complicated but all you need to do is try to continue finishing each section before moving on to the next.
Step 11
If you want to change the color of a piece of yarn, cut off the current yarn color and use a square knot to tie it around the outer nail.
Now, take the other yarn color and tie it around the same nail. Continue stringing.
Step 12
Once done, you want to get rid of any extra yard piece. Do this by trimming the ends of the yarn.
String Art Patterns
Even though you will find loads of patterns available on the internet, you may not find ready to print templates. This is especially annoying as if you are starting string art for the first time, you will feel more comfortable using printable links. Even though these are not .pdf, you can still print them on a number of devices.
1. Letters Pattern
You will find loads of letter patterns available on the internet. You could choose a Home-based pattern that could add a great variety to your house, which you can use to add a pop of color to the walls.
A letters pattern can be customized, making it a great Christmas present for your loved one as well! You can customize colors based on the occasion, such as white and red yarn for Christmas or pink and reds for Valentine’s Day.
2. Animal Pattern
If you have a pet lover in your life or someone who cannot imagine living without their little pup, we have got you covered. What better gift than a string art pattern of a paw or some whiskers in the form of art?
Simply choose what pattern you want to make for them, create a heart around it, and gift it to your loved one on a special occasion!
3. Music Art Pattern
String art patterns make a wonderful project for musicians, especially young musicians who are learning an instrument! There are loads of patterns you can opt for, depending on the kind of instrument focused on.
Simply choose a musical note and create some art out of it.
4. Lighthouse Pattern
Imagine making a lighthouse pattern and giving it to your loved one on a summer day. This would make a great present for those living in the countryside.
You can also get creative and add a little text or a quote next to the lighthouse. You could also leave the pattern as it is and allow it to give off a mysterious vibe.
5. Anchor Pattern
The anchor pattern has so many definitions that whoever you gift it to will be amazed. An anchor can signify to a loved one that they are the anchor to your life. This goes to show their importance to you.
The best part about the anchor pattern is that it is easy to make. There are not many curves or twists so you do not have to be intimidated while making this design.
Conclusion
String art patterns can be loads of fun to make. They can be a great bonding activity to try with your friends, children, or even co-workers after a hard day at work. You can try different designs each time, change up the colors, and even try different knots.
However, string art patterns require loads of concentration to make. They are a great activity for those who suffer from anxiety on a daily basis because you have to pay attention when threading the design. You should be extremely cautious when practicing this craft because the nails could easily hurt your hand or fingers. This activity is mainly advised for those who can keep their hands stable.
If an old parent wants to try their hand at string art patterns, we would discourage using hammers and would recommend using blunt nails. Good luck!
Looking for more string art ideas? Check out this post on 12 simple string art projects!
