If you’re craving a project that’s heartfelt yet refreshingly simple, this is it.

By layering and painting small shims, you can create a geometric heart that balances rustic wood with bright, eye-catching colors.

This craft is a great way to use leftover paint samples, and because the heart isn’t meant to be perfectly polished, every brushstroke adds to its personality.

It’s ideal for hanging near a window where the sunlight can soften the distressed paint and make the colors glow. You’ll find yourself smiling every time you pass it.

Materials Needed

• 8-10 wood shims (8" long, cut in halves or thirds as needed)
• 1 wood board (approximately 9" × 12")
• Craft paint in 3-4 colors (red, turquoise, green, ivory, or any mix you like)
• Sandpaper (120 grit for distressing)
• Wood glue or hot glue gun
• Small paintbrushes
• Optional: hanging hardware if displaying on the wall

Step-by-step Guide

Step 1: Cut your wood shims into equal pieces, making sure each fits together in a chevron-style pattern to form half of a heart. Lay them out first to visualize the shape.

Step 2: Paint each shim in your chosen colors. Don’t worry about neat coverage, leave streaks and rough edges for a weathered, vintage look. Let them dry completely.

Step 3: Arrange the painted shims on your backing board, aligning them into a heart shape. Once you’re satisfied, glue them down firmly.

Step 4: Use sandpaper to distress some of the edges and surfaces, softening the colors and giving the heart an aged, farmhouse vibe.

Step 5: Attach hanging hardware to the back or simply lean the board on a shelf or window ledge for a casual display.

Tip: I’ve found mixing bold shades with one neutral color (like ivory or tan) keeps the design balanced, you don’t want the heart to feel too busy.