Creating a device shield for the Crown Tourney heraldry trees

Materials needed

• a piece of 1/4" hardwood plywood, no more than 13" x 10" (Thicker plywood adds weight which is not really a great thing in this case.)
• wood stain (optional)
• your choice of paint (acrylics or house paint recommended)
• clear exterior topcoat (marine grade poly recommended)

Tools needed

• jigsaw or coping saw (something you can cut a curve in the plywood with if you want. You could also leave it rectangular if that suits you.)
• drill with a 1/4" bit
• paintbrushes

Directions

1. Cut the piece of plywood down to a shield shape if you'd like, no bigger than 10" wide and 13" tall.
2. Drill 2 holes at the top of the shield, 0.5" from the top, and 1.75" from the edge.
3. At this point, the shield can be left its natural color, stained or primed a base color.
4. After the stain or paint/primer is completely dry (usually a day or two), your device can be painted onto the front, and your name clearly onto the back.
5. Once the device is thoroughly dry, apply the clear top coat to both sides and edges. You may want to apply a second coat for extra weather-fastness.
6. Have fun with it!

Photo by Jason Taylor

More Information

• Creating a shield tree