Candy corn may be a small autumn treat, but in this project it transforms into something much larger, a rustic sculpture that brings warmth to your table or shelf.

The wood shims, stacked tall, become the candy corn’s body, with stripes of white, orange, and yellow whispering of harvest fields and cozy nights.

Tie it with twine, and it becomes less of a craft and more of a seasonal keepsake, a little monument to fall’s golden charm.

Materials Needed

• 20-25 wood shims (each approx. 1.5” × 8” long)
• Acrylic paint: white (2 oz), orange (2 oz), yellow (2 oz)
• 1 medium paintbrush (1” wide)
• 1 small detail brush (½” wide)
• Hot glue gun with 6-8 glue sticks
• 1 roll of jute twine (about 3 ft)
• 1 kraft paper tag (2” × 3”)
• Sandpaper (medium grit)
• Old newspaper or drop cloth

Step-by-step Guide

Step 1: Sand the edges of your wood shims lightly so they’re smooth and splinter-free.

Step 2: Stack the shims tightly together, angled so they form a tall, triangular wedge, then glue them in place. Hold until set.

Step 3: Paint the top section white, the middle section orange, and the bottom section yellow. Let each color dry before moving on.

Step 4: Touch up the dividing lines with your small detail brush to get sharp, candy corn–like stripes.

Step 5: Once dry, wrap jute twine around the middle and tie it in a bow.

Step 6: Add a kraft tag for a rustic finish, you can write “Thankful” or “Harvest” for a festive touch.

Step 7: Place the piece on a mantel, shelf, or side table to add cheerful autumn charm.

Notes:

If you want a weathered look, dry brush a little white paint across the finished piece. For outdoor use, seal with a clear spray to protect the colors.