DIY Tutorial: Natural Rope Sunburst

I really dig sunbursts, but have stayed away from making my own because it's been such a popular DIY project. Sometimes I'm a rebel like that, not doing something just because it's trendy. One day, while pondering ways to re-use some dried leaves, it hit me that the leaves would look great fanned outward---and so the natural sunburst idea was born. I really love this project because it's not your typical sunburst creation & because I've been on a kick with DIY rope decor projects lately.

This sunburst is very easy to make and involves repurposing some rope and dried leaves. Its natural aesthetic will complement many decor styles, from tropical to shabby chic. Find out how to make this natural sunburst after the jump.

All of the materials I already had on hand: sisal rope (1/4″ in diameter), hot glue & gun, sawtooth picture hanger & nails, a 10″ plywood circle, and dried leaves. I wish could tell you what kind of leaves these are, but I got them years ago from IKEA and they seem to no longer sell them. 😦

1. Mark the center of your wood circle.

2. Adding hot glue, glue the end of the rope to the center mark. Continue gluing the rope to the wood circle until it is completely covered.

3. Glue rope to the outside edge of the wood circle. This step is truly optional, but I prefer it so it hides the wood circle.

4. Once the glue is dry, plan the arrangement of your leaves by laying them on the back of the circle. Take into account how far you want the leaves to extend outwards, keeping them even or varied if desired. Make sure to leave enough space for your hanger. Also, ensure each leaf is evenly spaced along the circle.

5. When you’re happy with your arrangement, glue the bottoms of the leaves to the back of the circle. Remove any of those fine glue stringies (does anyone have tips on avoiding these???).

6. Attach the sawtooth picture hanger to the back of the circle.

7. Hang your unique sunburst on the wall and delight in its earthy beauty!

So far, the sunburst is hanging in my living room with my whitewashed bamboo blinds. I’m slowly making over the living room with a more natural energy and earthy decor. One of the ways I’m doing this is by infusing more greenery into the space. This sunburst is a great way to do this—especially because it doesn’t require watering or care!

What do you think of the sunburst as an accessory—has the trend passed or is it a classic design? Do you have a sunburst in your home? Have you recently crafted some decor from rope?

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