How to Build Garden Gnomes

Garden gnomes add a bit of whimsy to an outdoor space. The twinkle in their eyes and jolly smiles will add charm to your garden space. You can purchase your gnomes at a garden center. However, store-bought gnomes lack the special quality they would have if you created your own. A wooden garden gnome can be cut out of plywood and painted to capture the specific qualities you're looking for.

3/4-by-12-by-24-inch exterior grade plywood panel
Pencil
Jigsaw
Fine-grit sandpaper
1/4-inch drill bit
Drill
1/4-by-18-inch metal rod
Exterior paint
Paintbrush

Instructions

- 1
  Draw the gnome's outline on the plywood panel. Add in the details, including the gnome's hat, facial features and clothing. Gnomes typically have exaggerated facial features such as a large nose and ears, and rosy cheeks.
- 2
  Cut the outline out with a jigsaw. Follow along the pencil line and gently feed the wood through the saw.
- 3
  Sand the edges of the gnome lightly.
- 4
  Drill a 1/4-inch diameter hole 6 inches deep into the bottom edge in the center of the plywood panel.
- 5
  Paint the details onto the garden gnome to bring the panel to life. Paint the edges along with the front and back. Follow the penciled-in details for guidance. Step back and review your progress from time to time until the gnome is completed. Allow the paint to dry before handling.
- 6
  Push one end of the metal rod into the bottom of the gnome. Select a spot in the garden for the gnome and push the other end of the rod into the ground so the gnomes feet rest on the surface.

Homemade Gnomes

How to Paint Gnomes

Garden Gnomes