Trash to Treasure: Cabin Motifs

Birch-Covered Dresser
A plain dresser is given a completely new look with birch veneer and red twigs. A coat of clear shellac protects the finish. (Birch veneer is available for purchase online.)

Snowshoe Sconces
A tenon cutter is what you need to make this rustic light sconce. Gather two small birch logs--one for the arm, another for the upright piece. Cut a one-inch hole in the arm and use the tenon cutter to shave off the end of the upright piece so that it fits into the arm. Secure the arm to a birch-veneered backplate and attach the backplate to a snowshoe. A coat of amber shellac gives the birch pieces more color. Add electrical parts and a lampshade to make the piece functional.

Birch Frame
A tramp art frame is turned into a cabin-themed piece with a thin piece of plywood used as the mat. Red twigs are used for detail.