Wedding Week - DIY hanging letters

Nothing beats a sparkling accent in a wedding reception. Something to glitter under the glow of the candles, catch the photographer's flash, or accent the chair you'll be sitting in. Rather than opt for a simple hanging sign, I'll show you how to easily make block letters that are perfect in a number of party settings. Whether it's stringing chairs together, draped over the bar, propped up next to the cake, or welcoming guests in the doorway, these personalized signs help give any event a little personality and shine.

Tools: Large Xacto knife, small blade for details,cutting mat, spray adhesive, sanding block (or sand paper), fine crushed glitter, single hole punch (knife works too), ribbon, pencil, poster board (or cardboard)

1. Choose glitter and ribbon that match your theme. I opted for silver and a coral colored ribbon, but a bright glitter paired with a subtle cream ribbon is a fun option too. This time I used white foam core, but cardboard works well too. Just choose something that is thin, but sturdy.

2. Outline your letters with pencil (block letters work best), then cut carefully along the line until both side are cut through. A cutting mat makes this a lot easier and saves the table you're working on.

3. Use the sanding block to remove any rough edges and create smooth lines and crisp angles for the letters. Lay letters on a flat surface and spray a light, even coat of adhesive.

4. Sprinkle glitter over the entire surface, flip gently to other side and repeat with adhesive and glitter. Brush off excess and continue to spray adhesive and sprinkle with glitter a few more times until the entire surface is covered. Make sure to brush the glitter gently since the glue is still wet at this point. The glitter might clump a bit, but wait until everything has dried, then use the sanding block to clean up the edges once again.

5. Using a hole punch or knife, poke a small hole at the top of each letter. String ribbon through, knotting at each end, so you have a long strand with each letter at opposite ends.

6. Let set overnight, then use your glittery accent as decoration for a number of different places. I love them draped over chairs, but hanging against a window creates a great sparkling design as well.

Thank you so much to Heather from HMN Photography for shooting these great photos of the finished product. Don't they look so good against the red chairs?

I hope you all have enjoyed Wedding Week as much as I have! These tips are perfect for brides to be but can also be used by anyone looking to throw a memorable bash. I can't thank my contributors enough for making Wedding Week so much fun. Make sure to check out all of the posts, including accessory trends from The Gown Shop, essential planning tips from PS & Associates, and photographer musts from Jess + Nate Studios. Also, don't miss the great memories and tips from other bloggers from earlier this week.

The Stella and Dot necklace giveaway ends on Monday so make sure to enter and keep tweeting for extra entries!