If you adore the aesthetic of wood-burned designs but shy away from using heat tools, this tutorial offers a fantastic alternative. Using IOD decor ink to create personalized designs on wooden trinket trays provides a safe, simple way to achieve a similar rustic look without any special equipment. Perfect for making thoughtful his-and-hers gifts or customizing pieces to your taste, this method allows for creativity and personalization. Let's begin with this step-by-step guide on creating personalized gifts for special occasions.

Grab your IOD products and supplies by using the store locator and finding a stockist near you.

IOD Products Needed: 

• IOD Mercantile Stamp
• IOD Letterpress Stamp
• IOD Apothecary Label Stamp
• IOD Black Ink
• Ink pad
• Cut up IOD Thin Mount

Other Supplies: 

• Wooden Trinket Tray
• Sandpaper/Sanding Block
• General Finishes Flat Out Flat Sealer

Step-by-Step Instructions to Personalized Trinket Trays with a Wood-Burned Aesthetic 

Step 1 - Prepare the Surface

Begin by assessing your wooden trinket tray. If the tray comes pre-sealed, the ink might not adhere properly, resulting in a beaded appearance. Lightly scuff the surface with sandpaper or a sanding block to remove the sealer and ensure the ink can penetrate the wood effectively.

Step 2 - Choose Your Design

Select a design that suits your project. For a simple and elegant look, consider using one border stamp from the Mercantile Stamp set mixed with two different fonts from our Letterpress and Apothecary Label Stamp sets. Tailor the design to your liking or customize it for the intended recipient of the tray.

Step 3 - Configure Your Stamping Tools

If you have small, hard-to-reach areas on the tray, consider cutting a second thin mount into smaller pieces or using a cover sheet from an Apothecary Label set to help stabilize the smaller stamps. This will give you better control over the placement and quality of your ink impressions.

Step 4 - Clean the Stamps

If your stamps aren't sticking to the thin mount, they may need cleaning. Dust and debris can accumulate on the stamps from previous projects. Clean them with a little rubbing alcohol to restore their stickiness. If you don't have rubbing alcohol on hand, make a note to purchase some. You can always stamp in a letter by hand if necessary (that’s what we had to do since we were out of rubbing alcohol!). 

Step 5 - Apply Ink to Stamps

Ink your stamps using the ink pad, ensuring even coverage. Carefully press the stamps onto the wood, applying even pressure to each letter or design element. For a more masculine look on the "Mr" tray, consider using a simpler embellishment from the Apothecary Labels set.

Step 6 - Allow Ink to Dry

Let the ink dry thoroughly, which can take anywhere from a few minutes to 24 hours, depending on the wood's absorbency. Ensure the ink is completely dry before moving to the next step.

Step 7 - Seal the Design

Once the ink is dry, apply a layer of your chosen matte sealer to protect the design. This will also give the tray a finished look and prevent the ink from wearing off with use.

Viola! Your giftable trinket trays are all done. This DIY project is perfect for anyone looking to create personalized gifts or add a custom touch to their home décor. By following these steps, you'll produce beautiful, durable pieces that capture the charm of traditional wood-burning without the need for heat tools.

If you're just kicking off your creative journey, have no fear — our Product 101 pages are packed with straightforward techniques to set you up for success. We're thrilled to accompany you as you explore and create. For more how-tos and creative inspo, make sure to browse through the rest of our blog.

Once you've crafted your final piece, share it with our Facebook Creative Tribe! This community is not just a showcase but also a supportive hub for when you hit those creative roadblocks. And remember, your local stockist is always ready to assist with IOD supplies and expert advice. We're excited to see what you'll bring to life!