Swing and arbor
Weekend swing project
Built from Plan(s)
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner
Community Brag Posts
Toy zoo
My son has a very specific color scheme in his room (Go Pokes!), and finding something to keep his toys in, that looks like it belongs, is simply impossible. I chose to do it cheap and quick way, but it came out exactly like I hoped it would. I really liked the eyelets idea, and since I wanted the zoo to be movable and able to serve as a shelf, I just screwed them in directly into the top and bottom
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$35
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
Spray paint
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project
Wood Closet Shelving
My closet system is four separate units that I butted up together and attached to the wall with a "decorative" 2x4 railing around the entirety of the closet. The main unit looks the closest to the real design but is 8 feet long and 8 feet tall to avoid extra cutting of boards. The smaller unit only has one area for hanging up clothes and is around 5 feet long which is just the length of the wall. I also built a unit for holding sheets and towels and another for my wife's shoes.
The plans are really easy to follow but I would suggest a few things:
-Do stain and boards before cutting; this would have been a nightmare otherwise.
-If you use the metal clothing rods (if I could go back in time I would have used wooden dowels) make sure that you put those in before you attach any boards between the support structures. I ended up having a 35 inch gap instead of a 36 inch gap and it killed my momentum.
-I made mine 8 feet tall because it was less to cut and then re-stain; time wise it probably was a scratch cause I had to build it in place and at the end it was very tight to work in the space.
Built from Plan(s)
Comments
Convertible benches
We love these benches! We actually just leave one of them in bench form and the other in table form for everyday use.
Built from Plan(s)
Comments
Murphy Bed
This is a Murphy Bed that I made for my daughter Alicia for their getaway home at Canadian Lakes, MI. Due to limited space i had to make it horizontal instead of the normal way of being vertical. It really comes in handy and takes up very little space.
Built from Plan(s)
Finish Used
Red paint mixed with Baking Soda
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate
Comments
Fri, 07/19/2013 - 15:17
Great job!
Looks great! Love the color and the trims you used. Where did you find your hinge hardware? PS- How did you like the baking soda paint? I've tried ASCP which was good but very pricey, and last time made my own with some plaster of paris. Your finish is lovely.
Sat, 07/20/2013 - 18:47
Murphy Bed
I bought the spring hardware on line. I can't take the credit for the paint as my daughter did that part. She loves the way that the baking soda and paint covers everything and it is a whole lot less expensive than buying the commercial stuff.
Sun, 09/28/2014 - 01:02
Murphy Bed
I found some cool designed Murphy Bed Collection. Also bought one. Its so cool. Just happy to get that. You also can check this place <a href="http://murphybedikea.com/">murphy beds</a>
Laundry Dresser
We had a very limited area for these to fit, so my hubby had to change the dimensions to fit these square baskets. We needed enough spots for our family of 10! I LOVE THEM, thanks; Ana!
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$50 each
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
Water based paint
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project
Comments
Wed, 01/11/2012 - 14:53
We are going to have to turn
We are going to have to turn the baskets the same way due to the space in out laundry room. Do you happen to remember the dimensions of them? Thanks.
Thu, 02/09/2012 - 07:08
Dimensions
Do you have the dimensions for the square baskets? These would work much better in my home.
Tue, 02/14/2012 - 16:42
basket hold up?
We did something similar when our family was 8 (6 foster children). We bought 4 baskets (2 people per room) and then just had them on regular shelves. I LOVE the look of these! Unfortunately baskets give out over time and I can't ever seem to find baskets that once again are the same size as previous baskets. Did you order the baskets on-line someplace that you can consistenly get the same size for when the baskets wear out?
Wed, 02/22/2012 - 12:35
basket hold up
I have all the same laundry baskets that I bought at wal mart for like 3 or 4 bucks a piece. I would think that just meausring out the size according to the laundry baskets would work out fine! they have never stopped selling the ones that I buy, i find them at every wal mart I go to
Thu, 03/08/2012 - 05:13
Seriously? $50 for these
Seriously? $50 for these plans. Get real. Fine woodworking plans don't cost this much. Take some wood, make a box, and put slats in it to fit the baskets. The entire set wouldn't cost $50!
Thu, 03/08/2012 - 06:18
The plans are free. The
The plans are free. The build costs $50. See the plans on the link above the cost.
Thu, 03/08/2012 - 07:50
Thanks David. Didn't read
Thanks David. Didn't read well as you can see. My mistake, and apologies.
Sat, 03/17/2012 - 20:54
measurements
once again can anyone please give the measurements for this square basket design and the basket model number as well. i am very challenged when it comes to building things, but with the idea of home depot doing the cutting i think i could manage if i had the measurements. i need the square size to work for my space though. thanks in advance.
Sun, 04/01/2012 - 09:18
dimensions
I have tried clicking on the link above the cost to get the Plans...however it brings me back to the ORIGINAL Plan rather than YOUR plan (skinnier and taller)...Im sorry if I am being dense but I would really love to get the dimensions of YOUR plan but am having trouble accessing them?? Help please!!
Fri, 04/20/2012 - 14:05
Laundry project
If you use the large wire baskets made by elfa they would not break like the plastic. The initial investment would be more but would save money over time.
Tue, 07/24/2012 - 04:34
Easy & Beautiful
Easy and awesome! My teenage children and I made these over the week-end! Super easy and great looking! Our first project was the laundry pedestal and these are a great compliment. We let Home Depot cut the wood due to time restraints and assembly was a snap! Thanks for the great family projects. My husband passed away in April and these projects have really helped us in the healing process (excellent for constructive bonding time).! Thanks again
My new locker cabinet
I found the plans for a locker type cabinet that I really liked. Not only did I like it but I knew it would go perfect by our front door.
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$100
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner
Comments
Fri, 12/16/2011 - 14:17
You did a great job! I think
You did a great job! I think this is going to be my first after-Christmas project. I have 6 kiddos, though, so I think I will make 2! :)
Thu, 01/05/2012 - 04:20
Finish
Your lockers came out beautifully. I am very impressed with the distressed look of your paint here. Would you be willing to share how this is done? Also... the hooks you chose to use are unique... I have not seen anything like that at our local hardware store. Thanks! ;-)
Class/School Auction Projects
This year my 2nd-3rd class built the Modern Park bench for the school auction. They sanded, stained, and set the screw for the seat and back.
I also made two Adirondack chairs with matching stain.
Both projects had two coats of poly and really shined. They were a hit at the auction and the kids and families really appreciated the experience and final products.
Thank you Ana for making plans simple to follow and new skills learned each time.
Blessings,
Jennifer
Built from Plan(s)
Comments
Wed, 05/04/2022 - 07:50
Way to go kids!
This is amazing, I am sure their furniture pieces were a hit! Thank you for sharing:)
Mon, 05/16/2022 - 18:33
My students really enjoyed…
My students really enjoyed it and many picked up a tool for the first time. I like planting seeds in their heart and mind for the future!! Blessings, Jennifer
Mon, 05/16/2022 - 18:33
My students really enjoyed…
My students really enjoyed it and many picked up a tool for the first time. I like planting seeds in their heart and mind for the future!! Blessings, Jennifer
Sun, 03/31/2024 - 14:30
I've been helping with our…
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Sun, 03/31/2024 - 14:31
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I've been helping with our class auction project, and it's been a fun experience. But balancing schoolwork and project deadlines can be tough. That's why I found this article https://consent.yahoo.com/v2/collectConsent?sessionId=4_cc-session_0f89… on safe essay services helpful. It saved me time and stress, allowing me to focus on both my studies and the auction project.
Wed, 05/01/2024 - 12:07
I've been helping with our…
I've been helping with our class auction project, and it's been a fun experience. But balancing schoolwork and project deadlines can be tough. That's why I found this article https://consent.yahoo.com/v2/collectConsent?sessionId=1_cc-session_e9dd… on safe essay services helpful. It saved me time and stress, allowing me to focus on both my studies and the auction project.
Planked Wood Bedside tables
My son moved out and needed bedside tables. I have been hounding him to learn how to build and this was the first project he did! He was super proud of himself and how they turned out. Not bad for a first build! #mompride
Built from Plan(s)
Comments
First Build - Redwood Adirondack Chairs
Love the results of my first building project.....a pair of redwood adirondack chairs. Angled cuts were a great way for a beginner to learn to use the miter saw.
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$75 for redwood per chair
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Discovered a non-toxic, non-flammable, water-based, environmentally friendly product called Seal-Once. Quick and easy two coat application in natural clear to protect wood outdoors for up to 10 years. Soaked right into redwood without leaving a shiny finish or residue.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner
Comments
Sat, 09/07/2013 - 19:59
Fabulous!
Love these gorgeous redwood chairs! The color and grain on that wood is awesome, and the clear coat is perfect for it. You did a great job on this build! I popped over to your blog and I enjoyed your post on this build very much. Well done!
Garage / Basement Shelving + Bonus Wine/Liquor Under Stairs Storage
Using the guidelines for the “BEST DIY Garage Shelves (Attached to Walls), I added this to our unfinished basement area for additional storage. I plan to replicate it in our actual garage as well and build the freestanding shelves also!
As a bonus, I used this plan as inspiration and built directly beside it, which is an unused space under stairs, a wine/liquor storage shelving replacing the plywood with cut 2x4s for added weight capacity/stability.
Couldn’t have been easier!
Built from Plan(s)
Comments
Wed, 10/19/2022 - 09:14
Thank you!! I am so thankful…
Thank you!! I am so thankful for Ana White and team! These projects are helping me build a lot of confidence to continue endeavoring more challenging projects each step of the way :-)
My Ultimate Changing Table !!
Built it for our recently arrived baby !
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Primer/Undercoat followed by Satinwood.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner
Double Double Loungers
I had an idea in my head of what I wanted for deck seating/lounging in my mind but just couldn't seem to get to the "nitty gritty" of creating workable plans. Then, while googling through images of double loungers I stumbled onto Ana's site. Wow! I felt like a fish that had just found the water! With the detailed plans generously provided for a double lounger I was able to create my "vision" with just slight modifications. The loungers are actually two chairs and two ottomans that fit together or come apart depending on how much "togetherness" the situation calls for. And best of all - almost all the materials were left overs and cut pieces from another deck and fencing project. For cushions (not in this photo) I used two inexpensive "Hide A Mats" folding beds from Costco that I covered with waterproof duck fabric. I can't thank you enough, Ana, for taking the time to share your talent so freely. I'm truly grateful. As is Jake, the Redbone Coonhound, who insisted on being in the photo!
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
About $150 for hardware and cushions - lumber was scrap and leftovers from another project.
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Olympic semi transparent deck stain.
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate
Comments
Tue, 10/04/2011 - 22:46
Beautiful job! I really need
Beautiful job! I really need to create these for our backyard too, and Buck, our treeing walker coonhound :) lol. Jake is a cutie!
Tue, 10/04/2011 - 22:46
Beautiful job! I really need
Beautiful job! I really need to create these for our backyard too, and Buck, our treeing walker coonhound :) lol. Jake is a cutie!
Thu, 10/06/2011 - 06:18
I would have never thought to
I would have never thought to break it up into a chair and ottoman. Brillant! I love that idea!
Ten Dollar Ledges - Bookshelves for Nursery
A quick easy project to put a few of the many books that we got for the nursery on display. I love how it turned out, and it barely cost us anything!
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
0-10 dollars
Estimated Time Investment
An Hour or Two (0-2 Hours)
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project
Board & Batten Banquette
My family needed a seating area for our tiny kitchen and a built-in banquette solved our spatial design problem perfectly! I basically built it like a short and wide freestanding wall with a board & batten design and plywood top for seating. More details on my website post...
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
board & batten with latex paint
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate
Comments
Banquette Storage Bench
Here are the pictures from the finished Banquette. Thank you for the free plans. Very much appreciated.
by Jason
Pin For Later!
Built from Plan(s)
Seasonal And Holiday
Patio Furniture in Progress
I built six armless and two corner sections of the outdoor sectional but now I need to paint it and make cushions. For more details: http://www.homeandawaywithlisa.com/blog/2012/1/5/patio-furniture-in-pro…
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate
$15 Cedar Lemonade Stand!
My kid-o's love to sell lemonade. So, we made a trip to the local hardware store. Because I am terrified to use my husbands electric saw, any wood we purchased would have to be cut with a hack saw and a miter box. And since the stand is to be stored in the backyard, we opted to build it from cedar. We ended up purchasing 8 fence pickets for about $15 total. This was also to be a great way for my kids to apply the some of the knowledge they have picked up this year, our first year of homeschooling. My children, ages 7 and 9, measured all of the boards that needed to be cut. It turned out GREAT! We already had some extra boards, spray paint and screws on hand; so, the grand total was $15.00 for the entire project!
Built from Plan(s)
X Base Farmhouse Table and Benches
modeled after the Restoration Hardware Salvage Wood X Base Table which at this 8' table listed for $3395 just for the table. LOL
Used the Fancy x farm table plans and used all 4 x 4 on table, and followed plans for benches with 2x4
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
350
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
First stained with special walnut let dry, and then coated with weather grey, poly finish
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate
Comments
Mon, 07/14/2014 - 15:27
Can u tell me the dimensions
Can u tell me the dimensions of this table? I plan on using 4x4s with a concrete top and nervous it might feel too bulky at 6ft x 2.5ft table
Rocket book case
Easy beginner project.
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
I like the comment about using the free samples of paint. I read it a little late.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner
Comments
Mon, 02/06/2012 - 12:17
Absolutely awesome! Love all
Absolutely awesome! Love all the extra details you added!
Armless Sectional
A 6' armless sofa & a 6' one arm sofa made of decking cedar and finished with outdoor urethane. Perfect seating for large group for dinner in a screened in porch! This is my first project using Ana White plans and it came out perfectly!! Thank you.
Michele V.
Comments
dan.abbatacola…
Wed, 07/01/2015 - 11:26
Plans?!
Where can we find the plans for this Swing and Arbor project?
Thekellers68
Mon, 04/11/2016 - 18:19
Arbor
Where can I get the plans for the swing and arbor?
Ana White
Tue, 05/07/2019 - 10:42
We don't currently have this…
We don't currently have this plan available, although I'd be happy to draw it with the author's permission.
I have linked a few plans above that could be used to create this plan. Just make sure you bury the arbor uprights underground on concrete pier posts or similar (like building a fence)