Community Brag Posts
Farmhouse Bed with Storage and Bookshelf footboard
I altered the plans just a bit so that I could make use of the drawer closest to the headboard, while using bedside tables as well (not the ugly ones in the pictures, but some that only exist in my mind as of now). With the plan as is, I didn't think that first drawer would be able to open if you have a nightstand. So I left about a 17" gap that can be used as an open shelf for storage, and still had room for 3 drawers. I also wanted to include a bookshelf as the footboard to make it multifunctional. We have a ton of books and no place to store them (fear not, a large bookshelf/media center is coming soon!) I also altered the top of the headboard just a bit to give it more texture and visual appeal (hopefully, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder so I've been told). Lastly, I did not put the 1/4" plywood backing on the drawer carcasses. They were pretty sturdy as is, and only got more sturdy as they were attached to the headboard and footboard; I'm not worried about racking at all. Leaving the back off also allows me to pull the drawers out and access some hidden storage in between the two drawer carcasses.
I wanted a simple finish, so I rubbed it with dark walnut Danish oil. Super simple finish and I think it'll hold up as the bed is not like a desk that needs poly or something.
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
Cost? Great question! I build things, but don't keep track of receipts. Whoops! It's a major flaw of mine, and I'm working on it. I'd estimate just shy of $300.
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
I sanded to 120 and then lathered on Dark walnut Danish oil. I let it soak into the wood, and boy was the wood thirsty. Then reapplied after about 30 minutes and wiped off the excess, which there wasn't much excess--did I mention the wood was thirsty?
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate
Comments
Sun, 08/28/2016 - 19:50
Beautiful!!
This bed turned out amazing. I love the modifications and agree the first drawer will be more usable.
Thu, 05/28/2020 - 06:11
Could you please tell me how…
Could you please tell me how you attached the footboard on this one? I thought about using some bolts and counter sinking them from inside the self. How did you do it?
Daughters blue Playhouse
I used the basic framing plan for the project, but extended roof overhangs, added engineered siding / trim and cedar shake roofing. I put 2x4 bracing on for the platform.
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate
Modern Outdoor Patio Set
Built this over the weekend for my girlfriends sister. It was a great project and the whole family was able to work together on it, sanding and waterproofing it before assembling. The loveseat plans need a little tweaking. We ran ran the slats the same direction as the chair plans call for so we added a middle support for extra stability. We also pitched the seating down towards the back by 5* to make a more natural sitting position.
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$300
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Behr Cedar Natural Tone Waterproofing Stain and Sealer
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner
Love our new greenhouse!
With the help of friends and family, we managed to build this greenhouse rather easily. We had to start with the foundation since the spot we chose was not an even grade. We did this by filling sono tubes with cement and leveling each off so the greenhouse would have a solid place to sit. We then built out a frame around the outside of the cement tubes with some reclaimed 6x6's. After that, we filled the space with 5 tons of river rock and then got to work! After the foundation was ready putting the rest of the house together was a piece of cake. The frame was so easy to put together. We had a few minor kinks to work out here and there, I won't say this house came out 100% perfectly, BUT I am so happy with the end results. We chose to paint it a deep green color as a final touch. So far we just moved a few potted plants from our deck to the greenhouse for the winter. It has been working very well to keep the plants cozy during the colder days we've had. Eventually, I plan to build a potting station, shelving, and most likely a garden bed for winter harvests.
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$2000
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate
Comments
Mon, 11/09/2020 - 09:52
Beautiful!
The foundation looks great the greenhouse looks amazing! I'm sure fun was had building it too:) Thanks for sharing.
Great Patio Set
I wanted sturdy seating for my patio. Ana White had the perfect plans for my L shaped seating and coffee table. It was simple to put together and we love it!
Built from Plan(s)
Comments
Lydia Baby Bed
A photographer friend of mine requested I build her this after she saw them selling on Etsy for $115. They make super sweet props for newborn shoots, as well as a really cute doll bed for those popular 18" dolls. I free-handed the side details, and cut them out with my new Dremel Trio. It's an awesome tool! I used scrap MDF and plywood for everything but the 2x2 legs and finials, which I snagged for about 60 cents each at Lowe's. I played around with my finishing to give it a rustic look, since the cheap MDF I had on hand is super ripply and can't be sanded smooth.
I used the Farmhouse Doll Bed as a jumping off point for the dimensions. I put it together with my Kreg Jig, but I wouldn't recommend it, since those holes are really hard to fill, and you can see the indentations on the back of the headboard and footboard. Though it's sturdy enough to hold my 55 pound boxer, so I'm pretty sure all those newborns will be safe and sound on it! I really love how it turned out, and can't wait to get my own newborn photographed in this bed come August!
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$20
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
Two coats of Behr Harvest Brown, Valspar weathered crackle medium, one coat flat white paint. Sanded to reveal brown on edges, and sealed with two coats of spray varnish.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner
Modern Rustic Outdoor Sofa Inspired by RH Merida
I was in love with the RH Merida set because of its clean lines and modern style. Also, the plan seemed simple enough that I could re-create it without a pattern. The only thing that I did not like about it is the lack of arms. I really like to have a place to put my arm or my beverage :) - so I added arms to the design.
Estimated Cost
$150
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
Natural
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate
Comments
Thu, 05/30/2019 - 18:45
It’s beautiful! Do you have…
It’s beautiful! Do you have a set of plans that you might be willing to share?
Wed, 05/20/2020 - 10:45
stuck in the middle.
This is Awesome. I'm halfway in the middle as i thought I could complete without plans. Do you have any plans could share. Please....
Fri, 06/19/2020 - 15:54
plans for the RH Merida
were you able to get plans? I would LOVE plans too! we want to try and re-create this and would prefer NOT to get stuck!
Fri, 06/19/2020 - 15:55
Would LOVE to get plans,…
Would LOVE to get plans, would even pay for them! Found rough drawings online but they are chicken scratch and hard to interpret!
Twin Farmhouse Bed with Trundle
Took the farmhouse plan and added a Trundle. Was initially going to build two farmhouse beds for my two girls, but thought adding the Trundle would free up some much needed floor space. The girls love it!
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$150
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
Latex paint
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate
Simple Square Cedar Outdoor Dining Table
I've been planning on building a patio table for this coming spring and summer, but didn't know where to begin. I found Ana's wonderful site and now I don't know where to stop! So many great ideas.
After seeing ewood's great table I decided to make one similar. I made my square table based on Ana's and ewood's basic designs. Thank you both. I also made a bench based on Ana's design.
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
300--475
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Semigloss Spar Urethane
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner
Comments
Sun, 03/18/2012 - 16:36
Beautiful and Solid!
That looks like it could handle a big and boisterous group. The cedar and the finish are beautiful.
Thu, 03/29/2012 - 07:37
Great for larger families!
I have a family of 7 (soon to be 8, I hope), and was trying to figure out how to fit us all on the rectangular table. This is the solution! I can simply make 4 benches to go with it! Thanks for the idea and the picture!
Mon, 04/09/2012 - 07:24
Questions :)
Love this table and your modifications to ewood's table. I was wondering what size are the legs on your table - I can't tell if they are 4x4s...which is sort of what I'd like to have on mine. And they are under mounted, which I love because I want to make ours with the ability to remove the legs for reduced storage space in the winter. If you could would you mind putting a few close up photos of how the outside corner came out and the underside of the corners. It would be much appreciated.
Mon, 04/09/2012 - 07:27
Questions :)
Love this table and your modifications to ewood's table. I was wondering what size are the legs on your table - I can't tell if they are 4x4s...which is sort of what I'd like to have on mine. And they are under mounted, which I love because I want to make ours with the ability to remove the legs for reduced storage space in the winter. If you could would you mind putting a few close up photos of how the outside corner came out and the underside of the corners. It would be much appreciated.
In reply to Questions :) by K_W (not verified)
Sat, 04/14/2012 - 13:35
Yes - I used 4x4 legs
Hi - sorry it took a little while to get back to you. Yes the legs are 4x4's. I used knotted cedar 4x4's for the legs and made them 29" tall. I wanted to be able to disassemble the table and put it away for winter, so I attached the legs using carriage bolts, 2 per side (4 total per leg). I drilled holes using a pilot bit, then used a spatter bit to make the larger holes for the carriage bolt.
I didn't bother to counter sink them, but if I made another I think I would try that to make a more polished look. The legs are sturdy, the table doesn't wobble at all, but I am sure that someone with more furniture building experience might have a different/better idea.
I've added a couple more photos showing the corners, outside and underneath. I've also added my very basic plans that I used to make the table, one of these days I will study Ana's post of how to use sketch-up, until then this is what I worked with.
Wed, 06/06/2012 - 09:26
Question
Can you tell me what size (width) boards you used on the frame pieces of the table, and what size on the inner boards? From your diagrams, it looks like the frame is made of 1x4s, but the inner pieces look smaller. Thank you !!!
Your table is absolutely beautiful. It looks like a very high-end piece of furniture. One of my favorite things is how the carriage bolts are installed -- I wouldn't change a thing on them!
Tue, 07/30/2013 - 16:36
Sorry it took so long to
Sorry it took so long to reply - I didn't see your post. So far the table is holding up well.
You're right, the top is made from 1x4's, including the inlaid slats. To support the top, I cut 1x4's down to 1x3's so they remain hidden by the side 1x4's of the frame.
Tue, 10/16/2012 - 18:02
Question
Love the table - looks absolutely fantastic! I have been looking for a decent square outdoor table for ages and this one certainly fits the bill.
Can you please add a photo of the underside of the table and advise how you fastened inner boards on table top. Thanks.
In reply to Question by Aussie Paul (not verified)
Tue, 07/30/2013 - 16:40
new photo of bottom
I added a new photo of the bottom. Hopefully this will help show how I attached the top. I have a number of additional photo's I can send to you if you like - this site limits the number of photos I can add.
Everything is attached from the bottom to hide the screws. I used a kreg jig and it helped so much - i really recommend it.
Wed, 08/14/2013 - 12:35
Table plans
I love the look of this table, man - I think I'm gonna steal some ideas from this.
I have a question about your top, though. The slats look to be 1x4s, which I can understand, but the edges seem to be a bigger size.
Did you use 1x6 boards for the edges? 1x8s? Something else?
Thanks for your help.
Mon, 09/02/2013 - 11:03
table top
Thank you - please take any ideas from it that you can. That is what I love that about Ana's site. You can take these great ideas and make them fit your own style...
You're right - the table top is made of 1x4's and 1x6's. When i put the top together I made the frame first. Then I added the exterior 1x6's. Next I added the center 1x6. Lastly I cut each 1x4 to size and added them.
Sat, 05/17/2014 - 07:15
Materials List
This is an amazing table, it is beautiful! I am somewhat new to wood working and was wondering if there was a material list? I plan on creating this in AutoCAD first, so I have a visual to work off of. Also what did you use for spacing in between the boards or what was the allowance of space.
Thanks again, your work is beautiful!
Sat, 05/17/2014 - 07:15
Materials List
This is an amazing table, it is beautiful! I am somewhat new to wood working and was wondering if there was a material list? I plan on creating this in AutoCAD first, so I have a visual to work off of. Also what did you use for spacing in between the boards or what was the allowance of space.
Thanks again, your work is beautiful!
Wed, 06/17/2015 - 11:48
Material List
Great table…any chance you can share the plan and material list? Cheers
Wed, 04/22/2020 - 20:37
Question for Plans for Simple Outdoor Table
In looking at the plans and the underside of the table, there are some measurements missing that make it a little hard to decipher. It would be good to know the lumber sizes e.g. 1x4x8 etc. the underneath side seems to have some additional boards that don’t seem to be in the drawing. I was just wondering if it might be possible to get some additional details?
Sun, 05/24/2020 - 08:05
Question on underneath tabletop screws
This is a beautiful table and I'm going to try and replicate in a rectangular version. Primary question I have is what length screws you used to affix the framing pieces underneath to the top side so that the wood doesn't split and that the screws don't pop thru the top. Any help you can provide would be appreciated, if even you still look at this page. Thanks in advance!
Reclaimed Fence = Free Benches
These are made from the 4x4 posts, 2x4 rails, and slats from an old wooden fence that weren't good enough to re-use when we repaired the fence.
It's close to the Simple outdoor bench, but I simplified the plan even more to take advantage of the pile of free lumber. Or maybe it's the Simple Outdoor Dining Table ... but a lot shorter.
CAUTION: Be careful to remove ALL nails, screws and bolts from the lumber you are reusing. If you can't get the metal out, mark that area and figure out a cut that won't hit it.
TIPS FOR RECLAIMED LUMBER:
* Trim the ends of the lumber square before you measure.
* Don't try to salvage split or rotted wood. Trim it off and see what you can do with the good bits.
* Plan your cuts so you have the least waste.
TOOLS:
10" Miter saw
Wood glue
Nail gun, with 2 1/2 and 1 1/4 inch 16gauge nails for gun (You could use deck screws if you have them)
Surform Pocket plane (wood rasp from Stanley tools)
CUT LIST:
For one bench, 21x36
NOTE: To cut a 4x4 cleanly with the 10" miter saw, put a thin shim behind each side of the 4x4
4 4x4 post scraps, 18 inches long (legs)
2 2x4 18 inches long (sides)
2 2x4 36 inches long (front and back rail)
10 fence slat pieces, 21 inches long (cut to fit the top after it is assembled)
ASSEMBLY:
See the picture of the underside of the bench:
1 - Square up the legs with the end pieces, glue and nail.
2 - Square the sides with the legs, so the legs are inside the 2x4 apron, glue and nail.
3 - Align the 2 end slats with the edges of the bench and nail through them into the 2x4 apron
4 - Space the rest of the slats on the top, leaving 1/8 inch or so etween the boards for drainage. Nail them to the 2x4 apron.
FINISH: Use the wood rasp to round the cut ends of the slats and 2x4s. Rasp with the grain to avoid raising splinters. Lightly rasp the tops of the slats to smooth any really rough spots.
A table or maybe a buffet is planned, with the same construction method, but a bit taller. Tables are 26-29 inches, most buffets are 36". It depends on what will make best use of the remaining bits.
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$0
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
none
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner
Roll Out Grill Station
I used Ana White’s plan for Grill Nesting Table for my inspiration. The dimensions were altered to accommodate my electric smoker and small Weber grill. I also revised the design so that my pile of recycled wood could be used. I made the “open” side to the back.
Billie Corbin
Built from Plan(s)
Queen Murphy Bed
Not too bad of a project but had to a good bit of guess work so I could changed the plans for a queen size bed and flip in on its side.
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$200 if you already have the bed
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
White Paint and laminate flooring left over from the floor.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner
Comments
Sun, 05/29/2016 - 18:50
Measurements
Good evening!
I am new at wood working, and would be very interrested in knowing the different measurements you changed to get from a twin to queen murphy bed. If it is posted on this page, I tried but couldn't find it. Thank you for your help. Have a good day.
Marie-Julie
6 seater L shaped sofa,
Made this about 7 years ago from Ana's plans. Very easy to follow. I actually extended it to be a 4 and 2 seater set. Still a perfect today. Love it
Wicklow
Ireland.
Built from Plan(s)
Comments
Sat, 06/10/2023 - 06:39
Fabulous outdoor seating!
It looks so great, shared on our Facebook page today! Thanks for sharing.
Modern Outdoor Bench
Great plans! I modified the bench by adding a slanted back (which enabled me to put the slats closer together), extending and curving the front of the arms and extended the seat to the outside of the legs.
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate
Comments
2x10 Step Stools
My kids needed a step stool and I had some scrap wood (2x10) left over from a previous project
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
20 dollars
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Minwax (weathered oak stain)
Minwax polycrylic protective finish
Minwax polycrylic protective finish
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project
Comments
Thu, 08/18/2016 - 20:12
Thank you! The dimensions are
Thank you! The dimensions are the same as the Ana White "Simple 1x10 Single Step Stool" except I used 2x10's instead of 1x10's like the plans called for. I also used some scrap pallet wood to make a design on the top of the stool.
- Stool height: 7 1/2" for legs, 1 1/2" for top, and 1/2" for scrap pallet wood; which gives a total height of 9"
- Stool width: 9 1/4" x 16"
- 5 degree angle cuts were made on the legs
Wed, 04/17/2024 - 09:21
Are the rails a 2x10 cut in…
Are the rails a 2x10 cut in half.? Or is it pallet wood?
Square Farmhouse Table
I built this table for a friend who wanted a rustic, plank-top kitchen table. She wanted a square table with 4x4 legs. Since I don't have clamps, I used pocket holes and wood glue for the table top. Also, I only have a 7&1/4" miter saw, which means the 4x4s were too thick to cut. So I made one cut in the legs, then flipped them and made another. It worked! :) I sanded down the sides of the table top with 80 grit. They needed to be evened up since some of the planks were a little longer than others. I back braced underneathe the top with (3) 1x3s. Then, I sanded all over with 120, vacuumed, then wiped it down with a damp towel. Fun build!!
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
~$100 for lumber, screws, wood glue, sandpaper, and finishing products.
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
For the finish I used Minwax wood conditioner, then a coat of Minwax stain in Provincial. I went back and put a second coat of stain on a few of the premium pine pieces, because they soaked up the first coat really well, and I wanted some darker pieces on top. I let those soak for about 15 minutes. Afterwards I did 2 coats of Polycrylic all over, then a third coat for the top only. I dry sanded between coats with 600 grit sandpaper.
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate
Traditional Farmhouse Bed with Storage
Hello, fellow makers!
I really enjoyed this build - it was a challenge for me, but in the end, I'm thrilled with the results!
I modified two of Ana's plans to come up with this storage bed and I share more pictures of the process and how I finished this project over on my blog Tinsel + Wheat.
I used the Twin Bed Farmhouse plans to create the headboard and footboard, which turned out beautifully, but because of the storage base needing to be installed flush with the edges of the 4x4 posts - this made the bed a little wide for a standard twin size mattress. I don't mind the extra 2.5" of base on each side of the mattress but if you decide you would rather have the mattress edges match right up to the bed you will need to subtract one of your center 1x6 panels from both the headboard and footboard. This will give you the perfect size headboard and footboard for this build.
So grateful to Ana for these plans!
Happy building!
Miranda
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$200
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate
Comments
Sat, 03/02/2019 - 10:02
Storage boxes Lumber shopping list
Might you have the lumber shopping list for the storage boxes to go with this modified Twin Farmhouse with storage bed? I looked at you personal website but you just have the cut list for them not lumber list. Desperate need to purchase my wood Monday.Thank you so very much!
Footbridge
I wanted to make a footbridge for my mom so she wouldn't get muddy when she crosses a small drainage ditch when goes walking on the trails behind her house. I didn't have a plan and this was my first build and I loved it! I just wanted to give everyone an idea of something to build. Can't wait to build more.
Estimated Cost
45
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
Dark Minwax Walnut with a couple coats of poly.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner
Skull Adirondack Chair
I made this chair from plans in Ana's book. Obviousy I modified the back to make the skull.
Super easy to make. I used all pallet wood for this project so the only cost was the screws.
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$0
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
I stained this chair in walnut stain
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner
Nesting Grill Station
Nesting Grill Station
Built from Plan(s)