Twig Plant Marker How-To 1. Gather small branches, about 1/4 to 1/2 inch around, in an easily worked but sturdy wood, such as maple. 2. With a vegetable peeler, strip a couple of inches of bark at one end, making a flat surface, and use permanent marker to record the name. Note: If the wood is green and oozing sap, let it dry overnight before writing.