Laminate is a quick and cost-effective building material, and for that, it doesn't give off an expensive vibe. Here's how to ...

Repeat and let dry completely. Distress edges of the blocks with a sander, gently. Reassemble the design on the backer board. Leave flat or place wood pieces as risers under some pieces for interest.

It’s basically a slab of wood in which the natural edges are preserved. Generally, the bark is removed (but not always), leaving the contoured surface of the tree visible.