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Three Nature-Inspired Stools to Make Yourself

by on Dec 28, 2010

One huge trend as of late has been nature-inspired furniture and decor, especially log stools and side tables: they’re Scandinavian, rustic, and modern all at once, which may explain some of the allure.  I’ve seen them all over the Internet and from just about every online retailer.  The problem is, most of these bad boys cost a ridiculously pretty penny and I’m willing to bet you could DIY them for a whole lot less.  

Most of these log stools and tables are plain stumps, sanded down and gussied up (like this one from West Elm that goes to the tune of $200 – one of the cheaper variations out there).  That’s easy enough, but here are three ideas to take your stump to the next level.

created at: 12/28/2010

This stool is made from debarked wood from French forests by Bleu Nature, a French design company that sells exclusively to the trade.  With those sweet angles, it’s a decidedly modern take on the trend.  With a little slicin’ and dicin’ of your own and a bit of white paint, this beauty could be yours.

created at: 12/28/2010

While technically a side table due to its lacquered top, in a pinch this glossy number would work as a stool just fine.  If you’re making one yourself, you could even get fancy and create a colorful top inspired by those Tree Ring Paintings from our Mid-Century Modern gift guide.

created at: 12/28/2010

Don’t let the aluminum top on this table scare you away from a DIY version.  For a stool, paint and/or lacquer would work just fine.  I like this version for its playful “spots” and candy-like appearance.  Get creative with some color if you’re feeling adventurous!

There you have it folks, three stools and/or side tables you can make yourself and still be rocking the nature trend.  What do you think?  Are these DIYable to you?  Do you have any other ideas for tree-stump-inspired furniture?  Tips on where to find good stumps?  Share your thoughts in the comments!

Also, if you’re itching for more nature-inspired decor, check out these great how-tos for creating your own tree branch napkin rings, place card stands, and coasters!

[All stools/tables pictured by Bleu Nature.]

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