Hey friends! If you love simple scrap wood projects that instantly elevate your home decor, a DIY decorative riser could be the project of the year. Whether your style leans toward farmhouse, modern rustic, or cozy cottage, a handmade wood riser adds warmth, height, and personality without breaking your budget.
Thanks to Dixie Belle Paint Co. for sponsoring this post. While I was compensated to write this post, all opinions are my own.
* As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases and through other companies as well. You will not be charged extra when you purchase through these affiliate links, but any income I make helps me create more amazing DIY projects to share with you! To see my full disclaimer, click here!
What Is a Decorative Riser?
Basically, a decorative riser is a small, raised platform, usually made of wood, that helps you display your decor.
Perhaps you love candles, plants, vases, florals, tiered trays, or some seasonal decor? The sky is the limit here. Risers add height and layers, making everything look super intentional and styled!
Why a Decorative Wood Riser is a Favorite
Making decorative risers is popular for good reason:
- Beginner-friendly – Basic cuts, simple assembly
- Budget-conscious – Scrap wood works perfectly
- Customizable – Size, stain, paint, and legs are up to you
- High-impact decor – Makes spaces feel curated
Seriously, it’s one of those projects where you put in a little work and get a huge reward!
Supplies You’ll Need to Make a DIY Decorative Wood Riser
- wood board 2×12 (pine, oak, or reclaimed wood)
- wood legs, blocks, or knobs (for feet)
- chop saw, or hand saw
- drill
- wood sander (my fave!)
- sandpaper
- wood glue
- pocket hole jig
- American Honey No Pain Gel Stain (oil-based)
- Golden Ash No Pain Gel Stain (oil-based)
Steps to Build a Decorative Riser
STEP 1: Cut your top board to the desired size.
Okay, for this wood table riser, I used a 2×12 pine board. The top piece was cut to 36 inches, and the feet were cut from the same board, each one measuring 4 inches.
I went with a chunkier look for the supports (legs) on this riser. I’ve made them with four too, but it just depends on the vibe you’re after. I think they both look great!
Sanding The Wood
STEP 2: Sand all edges and surfaces for a smooth finish.
The pine board I picked was in awesome shape! We actually took down some shelving in our living room when we moved in a few years ago, but I saved the wood, knowing I’d use it for something like this eventually, like this decorative riser.
I used 180-grit sandpaper to remove the varnish, then went over it with 220-grit to smooth it.
Then I grabbed my antique ice pick (it’s my grandpa’s!) and gave it a wormhole look. It’ll make the wood look super rustic and old when it’s done. And it’s great therapy if you know what I mean? 🤭
Attaching The Feet
STEP 3: Attach the feet using screws.
To attach the support blocks to the underside of the riser top, I used a pocket jig to drill holes for wood screws to secure the pieces and achieve a strong bond. Two holes for each leg on the inside.
The holes are then hidden with wood plugs and glue to secure them. After drying, the wood can be trimmed flush with the surface and sanded to a smooth finish.
You can also drill pocket holes without the jig by carefully angling a standard drill bit, but I find I’m not that skilled or accurate. So, best that I stick with what I know works.
Finishing The Wood
STEP 4: Finish the wood with stain or paint.
Stain is my finish of choice for decorative risers. To complete the look I wanted, I used two different colors of Dixie Belle’s No Pain Gel Stain.
The first color applied was American Honey (a warm, rich color) using a soft, lint-free cloth. I applied it liberally so the stain would soak into all those tiny wormholes. After applying, I wiped away the remaining with a clean, soft cloth.
Immediately after applying the first color while it was still wet, I applied the second color, weathered gray. Using a clean, lint-free cloth, I applied small amounts of weathered gray to areas (in the direction of the wood grain) I wanted to give an aged look, while still allowing the beautiful wood grain to show.
And those worm holes! 🤗
Let Cure Fully
STEP 5: Allow the wood riser to dry before using. It will take at least 24 hours to be dry to the touch and an additional 21-30 days to be completely cured. But I see no reason that you can’t use it lightly until then. I am!
This gel stain doesn’t require a sealant, but you can use Clear Coat or Gator Hide in about 3 days (must be completely dry) for extra protection.
Styling Ideas For Every Room
One of the best things about a decorative riser is its versatility: the size of the riser you create depends on your space.
- Kitchen: Elevate olive oil bottles, salt cellars, coffee syrups, or use them in the center of your kitchen island, as I did
- Bathroom: Style soap dispensers, candles, and rolled towels
- Living room: Add height to vases, books, or seasonal decor
- Dining table: Create an instant centerpiece with greenery or candles
A decorative riser is awesome for the holidays – you can switch up the decor each season while keeping the base the same. That’s what I love about them!
The Final Results
DIY decorative wood risers are proof that this kind of project can make a big statement in just the right spot.
I LOVE how chunky it is!
If you’re looking for a satisfying weekend project that instantly upgrades your space, a decorative riser is the perfect place to start.
Thanks for joining me today, and I hope you found this tutorial helpful.
I love sharing my projects, but even more, I love hearing what you think! Drop your thoughts, questions, or ideas on how you’d use this in your home in the comments below! Don’t forget to PIN and share this with your DIY bestie, too.
Until the next project… xo, Do