Build idea
Layered walnut and maple star tree topper
I made this Share a photo of your version.

A five-point star made from three thin layers, walnut, maple and a small walnut center, glued with a slight offset so each layer shows. A short sleeve glued to the back slips over the top branch of the tree.
- Rough size
- About 8 in across
- Wood
- 1/4 in walnut, 1/4 in maple, A short hardwood dowel or tube for the sleeve
Laser: never leave it running, keep an extinguisher in reach, and with an open-frame laser everyone in the room wears eyewear rated for its wavelength. See laser and CNC shop safety.
Tools you might use
- Band saw
- Drill and bits
- ClampsOur picks
- Sanding
- Scroll saw, bandsaw, or a laser cutter for thin stock
- Drill with a Forstner bit to fit the sleeve
- Wood glue
- Small clamps
- Sanding block, 150–220 grit
- Wipe-on oil or clear finish
- Safety glasses and a dust mask
Our tool picks for this idea: Clamps · Wood glue
Drilling with a Forstner bit? Read our Forstner bit guide.