The Best Wood Slices for Arts and Crafts

5ARTH Unfinished Blank Wooden Circle

Smooth operators

With a finished edge and sanded surface, these large discs are perfect for making a statement.

Best Overall

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Big imaginations require lots of space for creativity, and these large wood slices are the perfect blank canvases. They measure 12″ in diameter and are smoothly sanded for even paint or dye application. This large size makes them great for paintings, lettered signs, wall decorations, or even clock backgrounds. They are made from a natural solid wood that is lightweight and easy to hang. Each disc is a light tan color that is easily covered with paint or provides a beautiful contrast to dark lettering or wood burned images.

Pros:

• Smooth surface makes them easy to paint or stain
• Large area for artwork or highly visible lettering
• Can buy a pack or three or 12 depending on your project requirements

Cons:

• Very thin, so they’re great for display but are less sturdy than thicker wood slices
• Must attach a string if you’d like to hang them

BeaverCraft Basswood Carving Blocks

Whittle me this

If you want to hone your hand carving skills, look no further than these basswood blocks.

Best For Whittling

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If you’re in search of a relaxing new hobby, whittling may be the handicraft for you. Whether you’re a novice or a pro, this set of basswood blocks is ideal for carving a variety of small figurines and trying out new techniques. With five pieces in different sizes, you can make ornaments, toys, knife handles, and much more. The wood is solid yet soft enough to carve easily, allowing you to control your tools and get a good amount of detail in your projects.

Pros:

• Basswood is soft and easy to carve
• Varying size blocks for different projects
• Great for beginners

Cons:

• Knives or other carving tools are not included
• Blocks are suited for small to medium-sized projects, not large

William Craft Store Unfinished Natural Wood Slices

Rough and ready

Complete with bark and natural wood grain, these simple slices are beautiful with or without decoration.

Best Rustic Look

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If your art needs a woodsy touch, look no further than these unfinished wood slices. The surface is smoothly finished and ready to decorate, while the edge is still covered in bark that adds texture and visual appeal. The medium size slices are perfect for coasters, and personalizing them turns them into the ultimate handmade place card for a table setting. Just decorate with a name, and your guest knows where to sit and also has a beautiful handmade keepsake to take home with them.

Pros:

• Evenly sliced with sanded surfaces
• Unfinished, so they’re great for painting or staining
• Textured bark adds a rustic touch

Cons:

• Because the wood is natural, it may have imperfections
• Must drill your own holes or attach a string if you’d like to hang them

Super Z Outlet Mini Assorted Size Wood Slices

Small but mighty

Coming in a range of sizes, these tiny slices are ideal for small hands and small projects.

Best For Kids

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Conveniently sized and easy to use, these mini wood slices are a versatile addition to any craft kit. Since the surface is unfinished, you can decorate them with markers, pencils, paints, or stickers. These slices are great for kids who might not have the patience to decorate something larger, while adults will have fun stretching their creative muscles. Their small size makes them great for ornaments, magnets, keychain charms, and gift tags. You can also keep them undecorated, and use the natural wood to spice up wreaths, mirrors, and other decor with a rustic touch.

Pros:

• Made from sturdy rosewood
• Shows the lovely grain patten of the wood
• Thin slices are lightweight

Cons:

• The assorted sizes are good for various projects but are not ideal if you need uniform pieces

Fuyit Natural Predrilled Wood Slices

The whole package

With pre-drilled holes and string included, these wood slices are display-ready.

Most Complete

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If you plan to make ornaments or hanging decor, pre-drilled wood slices are a must. This package also comes with string, so displaying your new art is a snap — just cut a length of included jute or red and white twine and thread it through the hole, conveniently located near the edge. The smooth, neutral surface makes these wood slices great for displaying photographic transfers, which captures a memory and creates a one-of-a-kind gift or keepsake.

Pros:

• Package includes 30 pieces, perfect for large projects or gifts
• Comes with two types of string to hang
• Thick slices hold up well

Cons:

• Comes with a single drilled hole, so if you’d like another you will have to add it yourself
• Natural bark may chip away over time

Frequently Asked Questions

How can I decorate wood slices?
Wood slices are a versatile material, and suitable for many projects. Acrylic paint, pencils, markers, and ink are all great options for lasting color. A wood-burning pen is another creative way to decorate, while carving wood slices can add another dimension to your art.

Do I need to finish the wood slices?
Because the wood is unfinished, adding a coat of sealant can maintain the wood’s integrity and help your art last. A sealant will also keep paint from chipping or smearing and prevent pencil or ink from rubbing off. Adding a stain or finish to carved pieces can also enhance your projects without obscuring the wood grain.