Working with deer antlers is one of those things that just feels right if you’re into natural, practical projects. It’s kind of cool how you can take something found in the woods and turn it into something useful or just plain nice to look at. Plus, you’re making use of a renewable material, so that’s a win.
There’s a lot you can do with antlers, sometimes it’s just a small accent, and sometimes you end up with something you use every day. Each idea here is a bit different, so you can cut, arrange, or shape them however you like.
1) Deer Antler Wreath
Making a deer antler wreath is pretty straightforward, whether you use real shed antlers or the fake ones from the craft store. Both options give you that rustic look that works for fall, winter, or holiday decorating.
Just lay the antlers out in a circle and attach them to a grapevine or wire wreath base. Toss in some pinecones, greenery, or dried leaves if you want to make it feel more seasonal.
If you’re into the simple look, stop there. But if you want, you can add magnolia leaves, feathers, or ribbon. This whole thing usually takes less than an hour, which is nice if you’re in a hurry.
2) DIY Antler Ring
Turning a bit of deer antler into a ring is actually easier than you’d think, especially if you’ve got a few basic tools. Slice off a piece, drill out the middle, and sand it down until it feels good on your finger.
A little polish or clear coat really brings out the color and grain. Some people mix in wood or metal inlays, but you don’t have to get fancy if you don’t want to.
Start simple, and once you get the hang of it, try different shapes or finishes. It’s kind of addicting, honestly.
3) Antler Candle Holders
Antler candle holders are a classic. Drill a flat hole into the antler and press in a metal or copper bushing to hold a candle, and you’re set.
Some people glue on little candle cups if they want more than one candle per antler. That works too.
If you’re not into working with real antlers, there are resin versions out there that look pretty convincing. Either way, you get that rustic vibe without much fuss.
4) Antler Coat Rack
Shed antlers make a pretty tough coat rack, and you don’t need much besides a wood base, a drill, and some screws. Pre-drill the antlers so they don’t crack when you attach them.
Mount them on a board, then leave the wood natural or stain it, whatever matches your style.
The antler branches give you a bunch of spots to hang coats, hats, or bags. It’s practical and looks cool, which is always nice.
5) Rustic Antler Chandelier
Making a chandelier out of antlers? That’s a project that really stands out. Start with a chandelier kit or an old fixture, then arrange the antlers around it however you like.
Drill tiny holes and use screws or strong glue to hold everything together. Just make sure the wiring is safe and tucked away.
Once it’s all stable, add the bulbs and see how it looks. These are perfect for a cabin, dining room, or anywhere you want that rustic touch.
6) Antler Drawer Pulls
Cut up some smaller antler sections and you’ve got yourself some unique drawer pulls. Try to keep the pieces roughly the same size for a consistent look across your cabinets or dresser.
Drill a hole through each one so you can use regular screws or hardware. It’s a simple install and they hold up well.
Sand the edges so you don’t get any splinters, but leave the texture if you want that raw, natural style. A clear finish can make them a bit more durable.
7) Antler Picture Frame
Antler bits make for a pretty cool picture frame. Smaller pieces work great for corners, and longer ones can be the sides.
Cut them with a fine saw, sand the edges, and glue or screw them onto a basic wooden frame. That gives it some extra strength.
You can leave it natural or stain it to match your other stuff. Shed antlers are the easiest to work with for this, honestly.
8) Antler Key Holder
A shed antler actually makes a handy key holder. The curves work as hooks, so you don’t have to add much else.
Drill a couple holes in the base and mount it to a board or straight onto the wall. Two screws usually does the trick.
If you need more hooks, just add some small metal ones between the tines. It keeps all your keys in one spot and looks pretty neat.
9) Antler Knife Handle
Antlers work great for knife handles. The natural shape usually fits your hand pretty well, so you don’t have to do much shaping.
Pick a piece that matches your blade’s tang, cut it to the right length, and drill a hole or slot for the blade.
Definitely wear a mask when you’re cutting or sanding, bone dust isn’t something you want to breathe in. Once you’ve got the blade set, sand and polish the handle until it’s smooth.
10) Antler Jewelry Holder
A small set of antlers can create a pretty stand out jewelry holder! Attach them to a wooden box base, and the antlers work as handles while the holds your rings, earrings, or whatever.
Sand the antlers and give them a clear coat to keep them smooth. This one works best with antlers that already have an interesting shape. It’s practical and has that rustic feel without being too much.
11) Antler Wall Hooks
Wall hooks made from antlers are super handy. Mount them on a board or straight to the wall, and you’ve got a spot for coats, hats, or even bags.
Depending on the antler, you get just one hook or a whole rack. Bigger antlers can hold a bunch of stuff at once.
A natural finish or light stain helps them blend in, or you can sand them for a smoother look.
12) Antler Lamp Base
Antlers make surprisingly sturdy lamp bases. Clean them up, sand any rough spots, and figure out how you want them to sit before adding the lamp hardware.
Use screws, brackets, or epoxy to attach the antlers to a wooden or metal base. Then just run your lamp kit wiring through and attach the socket.
Try out a few arrangements before you lock it all in so your lamp doesn’t tip over. A clear finish or a bit of stain brings out the color and keeps the antlers protected.
13) Antler Christmas Ornaments
Tiny deer antlers or sections of them make cool Christmas ornaments. Sand them down, drill a hole for ribbon or twine, and they’re ready to hang.
Add some paint, stain, or even glitter if you’re feeling festive. Burning initials or patterns into the surface gives them a personal twist.
If you have smaller tines, they work as is, no extra steps needed. Bigger chunks? Just cut them down and you’ll end up with a handful of ornaments from one piece.
14) Antler Wine Bottle Holder
A single curved antler makes a surprisingly good wine bottle stand. Its shape naturally cradles a bottle, so you don’t need to overthink the design.
Want to store more bottles? Combine a few antlers and attach them to a flat wooden base for stability. It keeps everything steady on your table or counter.
Give the antlers a quick sanding and maybe seal them if you want a cleaner look. You can leave them natural or stain them darker to fit your style.
15) Antler Pen
Turn a naturally shed deer antler into a one-of-a-kind writing instrument with this DIY Deer Antler Pen project! It’s a great way to combine craftsmanship and nature, resulting in a rustic yet refined piece that makes a perfect keepsake or gift.
Start by selecting a small, straight section of antler, ideally one that fits comfortably in your hand. Cut it to the desired length using a fine-tooth saw, then sand the ends smooth. Carefully drill a hole through the center to fit your pen insert or refill mechanism (you can use a pen kit from a craft or woodworking store for this step).
Once the insert fits snugly, polish the antler with fine sandpaper and finish it with a bit of wax or oil to bring out its natural texture and sheen. Assemble the pen parts according to your kit’s instructions, ensuring everything aligns smoothly.
16) DIY Antler Towel Rack
Bring a touch of rustic charm to your home with this DIY Antler Towel Rack! Perfect for cabins, lodges, or nature-inspired spaces, this project combines natural materials and practical design to create a one-of-a-kind wall feature.
Start by selecting a pair (or more) of naturally shed deer antlers. Clean them thoroughly and, if desired, lightly sand and seal them with a clear finish to enhance their natural color and protect the surface.
Next, choose a sturdy wooden base, a reclaimed board, live-edge plank, or stained piece of lumber works beautifully. Arrange the antlers on the board so their tines extend outward, forming hooks for towels. Once you’re happy with the layout, secure the antlers using strong screws or brackets from the back of the board.
Mount the finished piece on your wall with heavy-duty anchors or studs for stability.
17) Antler Bird Feeder
A shed antler can easily become a bird feeder. The curves are perfect for holding seed or hanging little cups.
Drill a few shallow holes in the tines for seed pockets. Birds will perch right on the antler while they eat, so you get a front-row seat.
Hang the antler from a branch with rope or wire, just make sure it’s secure so it doesn’t swing around too much.
18) Antler Serving Tray
Deer antlers make great handles for a serving tray. Cut them to a comfortable size and attach them to each side of a wooden or metal base. Suddenly, you’ve got a tray that’s both sturdy and a little bit wild.
Give the antlers a quick sanding so they’re smooth to grab. Seal the wood to keep it safe from spills.
Let the antlers be the star, keep the tray simple and finish it clear to show off their texture.
19) Antler Jewelry Stand
A shed antler makes a pretty handy jewelry stand. The natural branches act as hooks for rings, bracelets, and necklaces, no extra hardware needed.
Clean the antler well and let it dry first. Mount it on a small wood base with screws or glue to keep it upright. If you want, stain or paint the base for a finished look.
Set it on your dresser or shelf for quick access to your jewelry, and you get a rustic accent at the same time.
20) Antler Coasters
Small slices of deer antler make tough, rustic coasters. Cut the antler into even rounds and you’ll have pieces that can handle hot mugs and condensation.
Smooth out the edges so they won’t scratch your table. Leave the surface raw for texture, or add a clear finish if you want them easier to wipe clean.
They’re practical and make easy handmade gifts. Tie up a set with twine and you’re good to go!
21) Antler Wall Art
Shed deer antlers can become wall art by mounting them on a wooden plaque or frame. It’s a quick way to add a natural accent to a rustic or cabin-themed room.
Or, try arranging several antlers together for a bigger piece. You might hang them in a circle or branch pattern to make your wall a bit more interesting.
If you’re after a modern look, paint the antlers in neutral or metallic colors. That way, you get the cool texture without things feeling too woodsy.
22) Antler Handle Walking Stick
Ever stumbled across a shed antler and wondered what you could do with it? Turns out, they’re pretty awesome as handles for a walking stick. The natural curve on most antlers just fits your hand so well, and they’re surprisingly tough.
Pick out a piece that just feels right when you hold it. You’ll want to cut and sand the base until it sits snugly on top of your stick.
Drill a hole and grab some strong glue or a pin to lock it in place. After it’s attached, you can polish up the antler if you want something shiny, or just leave it raw for that rugged, outdoorsy vibe.