Wooden Tic Tac Toe Board - Lauren Schultz

This is a step by step instructions to create a wooden tic tac toe board.

1. 2x4 Lumber, this will later be cut down
2. Wood Screw & washer
3. Wood Glue
4. Marbles
5. Sandpaper
6. Stain
7. Clearcoat
8. Miter saw
9. Router or table saw (for grooves)
10. Drill/driver
11. Countersink bit (for screw)
12. Clamps
13. Measuring tape, square, pencil

Use a table saw to cut the wood to 3.5" long, then use the miter saw to cut it to 3.5" wide. Use the table saw to cut with the grain, and the miter saw to cut across it.

Measure each side into thirds, making a 3x3 grid. Then use a table saw to cut them X" deep

Use a ruler to make a mark at the center of each square. Then use a 5/8 Auger bit to drill all 9 holes.

On one of the end grain sides, use a 3/4" Forstner bit to drill 2 evenly spaced 3 inch deep holes

Cut down a piece of other wood into a thin, quarter inch thick strip. Sand down all the edges, then if you choose, use a router to round over the edges.

Use a wood finish and give ample time to dry. Then if you so please, apply a coat of clearcoat to protect it. Make sure to wipe both with the grain. Minwax Water Stain Direction

To apply Minwax water stain, follow these steps:

1. Sand the wood: Use fine-grade sandpaper (gradually increase up to a grit o220) to sand the wood in the direction of the grain until smooth.
2. Pre-treat with conditioner: Apply Minwax Pre-Stain Wood Conditioner to ensure an even stain color.
3. Apply stain: Use a brush or clean cloth to apply the stain in the direction of the grain. Allow the stain to penetrate for 5-15 minutes to achieve the desired color.
4. Remove unabsorbed stain: Wipe off any unabsorbed stain with a clean cloth, blending light and dark areas to obtain uniform color.
5. Apply clear finish: After the stain has dried, apply a clear protective finish.

For best results, always test the stain on an inconspicuous area to ensure the desired color. If you want a darker tone, apply a second coat after 4-6 hours. Remember, a stain provides color, but not protection, so apply a clear finish to protect both the stain and the wood.

IMPORTANT TIPS/WARNING:

1. Timing: Apply the stain within two hours of applying the conditioner to prevent the conditioner from sealing the wood completely.
2. Drying: Allow the stain to dry completely before applying a clear finish to ensure proper adhesion and protection.
3. Safety: Always follow the safety data sheet (SDS) for Minwax products to ensure safe handling and disposal.

By adhering to these tips and warnings, you can achieve a professional-looking finish with Minwax water stain, ensuring both beauty and durability for your wood projects.

Once it is all dry, drill a pilot hole that will fit the shank of a #10 screw, in the board, and drill a clearance hole through the lid. Put a washer between the board and lid for better turning.