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Linen Storage Tower

Submitted by JoanneS on Sat, 04/14/2012 - 12:23

This tower plan was perfect for re-using some already stained 1x12’s I had from another project. It fills up that little square of unused space at the top of the stairs, and gives us extra storage for towels and TP for the 3 bathrooms in our house. I substituted 1x2 and ¼” plywood for the door and used some 1x2 and 1x3 to attach and build it in. This project has been up for a couple of months now, and has come in handy. This was my first attempt at doing something as a ‘built-in,’ and it gave me confidence that we could do our next big project (the pantry) as a built-in. Since the side and shelf boards were already stained, once it was assembled the finishing was easy- all I had to do was stain the trim boards to match, and paint the door and the inside.
Thanks for this great plan, Ana! I’m planning to build several more of these, for my sewing room.

Built from Plan(s)
Craft Room Storage Tower
Estimated Cost
$50
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
Cabot water based stain w/poly (walnut) on the sides and shelves and minwax express color in walnut on the trims. Door is painted with Ace Royal semi gloss in Crushed Peanut, and the inside color is Wishbone.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

{shortened} Farm House Bench from The Handbuilt Home

Submitted by Shorty on Sun, 10/02/2022 - 11:03

We needed more chairs for our dining room table but didn't want to invest in more chairs; this plan from The Handbuilt Home proved to be the perfect solution! We shortened up the dimensions for the bench so in the end it didn't require much wood and was a very simple build (especially with the aid of a pocket hole jig!). Because we have a baby, my husband and I tag teamed this effort. I re-dimensioned the plan & marked off the cuts, then he went in cut. I sanded down the jig saw cuts and assembled the box (it was such a fast build with pocket holes!). We worked together to put the frame on with some finish nails & a hammer. After making the box I was nervous the bench would be a little flimsy, but after adding the frame the bench was -very- solid. Espresso stain made it match our existing dining room furniture perfectly. This was a very satisfying build.

Built from Plan(s)
Simple 1x12 Bench or Bedside Table
Simple End of Bed Storage Bench
Estimated Cost
$40 not inculding hardware or tools
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
Minwax Stain in Espresso.

We prepped with wood conditioner and applied two coats of stain. Finished it with Minwax Fast-Drying Polyurethane in Satin.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Farmhouse Media Cabinet (wall unit)

Submitted by bwblack2 on Wed, 01/15/2020 - 14:34

This project started as an idea to build a single Farmhouse Media Cabinet with a "42 tv mounted above it. I quickly realized that this space deserved so much more. Fast forward through weeks of debate and scouring the internet for inspiration, before finally settling on what you see pictured above. The first decision we made was to buy a monstrous 75", then everything else fell in to place from there. The tight stairwell leading to the basement forced me to build this unit in 6 sections (2 farmhouse media cabinets, 2 flanking cabinets, and 2 bookshelves.) It ended up sprawling 17' long when it was all said and done, but it fills the space so beautifully. It was by far the largest project I've ever tackled, but it was totally worth the hard work. Big shout out to Ana White for the inspiration!! 

Built from Plan(s)
Smith Media Wall: Center Console
Smith Media Wall: Side Hutch
Smith Media Wall: Side Base Cabinet
Estimated Cost
$1200-$1500
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Minwax(Early American), and Behr Premium Plus Ultra (Maui Mist)
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

Shanty Sideboard

My wife and I are very happy with this piece. It was challenging but not too difficult. The plans were very easy to follow.

Built from Plan(s)
Shanty Sideboard

Comments

Storage Sofa

I loved the idea of the storage sofa! Such an easy build and I tweaked the plans to fit my needs... I used 5" high density foam, I lengthened the sofa to 84" (so I wouldn't have any wasted foam and also so my extremely tall son could stretch out on it without his feet hanging off the edge), I used a 2x8 for the box, and used 1/2" plywood for the seat because 1/4" ply was too flexible. I also made the seat with a zippered cover to encase the foam, batting, and plywood. This way, I can easily remove it to wash it. It's my favorite place to sit while I'm working!

Blog Link
Designs by Studio C
Built from Plan(s)
Storage Sofa
Estimated Cost
Less than $100
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
I used General Finishes Stain in Espresso for the base and legs.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Rae25 (not verified)

Tue, 05/22/2012 - 13:00

Gorgeous job! Hope mine turns out this well. How much fabric did you end up needing? I plan on making the seat cover removable as well.

Rae25 (not verified)

Tue, 05/22/2012 - 13:04

Gorgeous job, I hope mine turns out as well!
Question, how much fabric did you end up using? I plan on doing the removable cushion cover as well.

Freddy

Fri, 09/06/2013 - 13:21

It is really a fantastic idea to use storage sofa, as it can be used for dual purposes of storage plus sofa. Moreover, it will not occupy much space in the room. Anyway, please click here to see my site.

krystistaheli

Mon, 12/30/2013 - 17:43

Where did you purchase the foam? Was the $100 for just lumber costs or for the entire purchase? Thanks.

Perfect playhouse

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 05/02/2016 - 06:37

Perfect little playhouse my husband built for our girls.   It took about a week to build by himself, but worth every minute.   He did a wonderful job.   Such a good daddy!

Built from Plan(s)
Build the Simple Playhouse - Front Wall with Door
Craftsman Style Playhouse
Estimated Cost
1400
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Outdoor Sectional

Submitted by rachelmlee on Sun, 01/26/2020 - 20:23

This was my first real woodworking project and was so much fun! I use my deck much more now and am excited to build more!

Built from Plan(s)
One Arm 2x4 Outdoor Sofa - Sectional Piece
2x4 Outdoor Sofa
2x4 Outdoor Coffee Table
Estimated Cost
$500 (with cushions)
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Varathane Jacobean stain
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Full over Full Bunk Bed

Full over Full bunk beds. Adjusted for Full from a twin measurement. only 1" off floor for more head room.extra rail bar coverage upstairs for my daughter who rolls out of bed regularly.

Built from Plan(s)
Classic Bunk Beds
Estimated Cost
used common board mix and a few premium cuts. Pine was more costly. @$250
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
White primer/paint
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

bjerfr

Sat, 07/11/2020 - 10:12

What measurements did you use to adjust to a full size?

Door Top Workbench

Submitted by Ji on Sun, 04/29/2012 - 18:57

We had an extra door after building our house. We were not able to get store credit, so we found a some good use for it. After searching the plans here we saw the rolling workbench and decided what to do.

The door was so heavy and long so we modified the original plan and put a middle support. Our plan is based on the "Rolling Workbench with "Drill Holders"".

Built from Plan(s)
Rolling Workbench with "Drill Holders"
Estimated Cost
$150
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
None yet. May put a couple of coats of semi-gloss poly, but it is a workbench so not too concerned.
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

Patrick Hosey (not verified)

Sat, 05/05/2012 - 07:07

this is great. i love the 2 drawers and that it is on wheels. great job

Cement top modification

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 06/07/2016 - 00:31

Instead of a wood top I used 2x 3/4" sheets of plywood plus 1/2" backer board to create a thicker top and used Ardex feather finish cement in 4 coats sanded and finished with Mexeseal sealant, recommended 4 coats of semi-gloss plus 2 coats of satin to get a matte finish (recommended by manufacturer) I followed the concrete countertop blog from "Young House Love" but used a different sealant when I contacted the safe coat manufacturer and they recommended their Mexeseal product. 

Built from Plan(s)
4x4 Truss Beam Table
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Ardex Feather Finish Cement
Safe coat Mexeseal Sealant (4 coats semi-gloss plus 2 coats satin for a matte finish)
Stain on base: Minwax weathered oak and dark walnut
Poly on base: 2 coats of Minwax satin poly
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Beginner Farm Table & Benches

This was my first time building anything! The plans were so easy to follow along! Once I master some things like this, I can work on fine tuning things a bit more so I can build some more intricate plans. Thanks so much for your website! My kids are loving the BBQ's outside at the table!

Built from Plan(s)
Beginner Farm Table (2 Tools + $50 Lumber)
Beginner Farm Table Benches (2 Tools + $20 in Lumber)
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
I haven't added a finish yet but will be soon.
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project

Comments

Beryl

Tue, 06/02/2020 - 15:09

re the farm table. your cut list calls for 8 2 x 4 at 28 1/2 inches but the plan actually only needs 4 of them. The pics do not show you doubling the 2 x 4s for legs. Am I missing something.

Garage Shelving

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 07/16/2016 - 17:17

I am a beginner diy'er and this was one of my first projects.  Also it was my first time using the Kreg jig and I loved it!  My shelving system was around 8 feet tall, 12 feet wide and 30 inches deep.  I added some extra cleats to support my deeper shelves (30") and also used thicker (5/8") plywood.  This was a fun and easy project to do!  Thanks so much!

Estimated Cost
$150
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
none
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Little Boy's Upholstered Toddler Bed

Such a darling bed and plans. I'm so glad I found it! I built it with a friend for her little boy, so he could use it as a couch later on, and it is just darling with the black pleather and nailhead trim she picked out.

I marked it as an intermediate project more for the upholstery part of it. I'd call it a beginner building project, though. :)

Thanks, Ana!!

Blog Link
DIY Upholstered Toddler Bed / Couch
Built from Plan(s)
Toddler Upholstered Bed
Estimated Cost
$60
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

Pam the Goatherd

Wed, 07/04/2012 - 04:34

That looks great! I never would have thought of doing it with pleather. I've been trying to decide what seating to make for my son who lives in a one bedroom apartment and needs a place for his sister or friends to crash when they come to visit. I'm going to show him this and see what he thinks.

Planters for under $20

Submitted by emilacious on Mon, 05/11/2020 - 16:27

Used treated wood and stained it with a misting sealant from Lowe’s! Modified a few things and gave it to my mother-in-law for Mother’s Day! She loved it.

Built from Plan(s)
Cedar Planters with 2x2 Legs
Estimated Cost
$25
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Rustic X Console Table Build

Submitted by amandak778 on Wed, 05/13/2020 - 06:55

This was the first time I've ever set out to build something 100% on my own. I saw a photo of this table and fell in love and decided why not build it?! Made my material list, got all the supplies, and refused to let my husband help in any way shape or form :). I was able to finish the build and get paint on in a day and stained the 2nd day so one weekend later - I have my table!!!

The directions were great and now I'm working on my 2nd project and planning my third! Even started acquiring my own tools so I don't have to use the hubby's lol ;)

Built from Plan(s)
Rustic X Console Table
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)

iTable

Submitted by I Rub on Sat, 07/07/2012 - 14:45

Easy build. Great and sturdy results.
Great build for beginners and for some learning experience with a Kreg Jig. Table looks great and bulky.

Built from Plan(s)
Square Parsons Coffee Table
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

zendup

Sun, 08/11/2013 - 19:21

Did you use treated or untreated 4x4s? I am unable to find untreated ones where I live. Your table finish looks beautiful and I was curious as to whether or not your posts were treated.

JessicaHall

Sun, 08/11/2013 - 21:15

I was wondering the same thing myself about the 4x4's. Where I live the treated ones are about $7 and the untreated about $30. Also I have heard that you may have trouble staining or painting your treated 4x4's. I want to make a coffee table from one of your plans but I do not want to spend that much just on a 4x4. :/ Beautiful table though!

Loft Over Single Bed

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 01/15/2024 - 18:24

I decided to build a bunk bed for my grandson and his half sister when she came to visit. I enlisted the help of my 7 year old grandson to help with sanding and he was so excited! I was very pleased how it turned out and watching my grandson's excitement was an absolute joy! I can't wait to build more things together!

Norma Jasman

Built from Plan(s)
Camp Loft Bed with Stair, Junior Height
Essential Kids Bed Frame - Twin and Full Sizes

Entertainment Center

Submitted by Dave-Mac on Mon, 07/09/2012 - 13:10

I got the inspiration for this from the entertainment centers that kristenlotz and azca33 (mostly azca33).

I built this over about 5 months in my spare time. It took a lot of wood and a lot of time. I will post plans and a breakdown of supplies if there is any interest.

Estimated Cost
$500
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
I filled all the visible pocket holes with stainable wood filler. After everything was put together, I sanded everything with 150 grit sandpaper. I used a palm sander for the plywood and hand sanded the pine trim and moulding. Then I vacuumed up the dust and wiped it clean with a damp rag. I applied Minwax Mahogany gel stain with white t-shirt rags I bought from Lowe's. If there was any excess of stain I would just wipe it off after about 5 minutes or so. I let that dry for at least 24 hours. Then I applied a coat of Minwax Clear Semi Gloss fast drying Polyurethane. Then I lightly sanded everything with 220 grit sandpaper. Vacuumed and cleaned again. Then another coat of the poly.
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

Misty Tillema

Mon, 07/09/2012 - 15:58

Wow, what a beautiful entertainment center! I love stained wood, and this would match my house perfectly. I'm not ready to take on a project this big yet, but when I am, I want to build it. Great job!

MARGARET (not verified)

Sun, 08/19/2012 - 07:14

This is a beautiful entertainment center. You did a wonderful job. My husband has been looking for plans to build one for us and very much likes this. Is there any way he can find out what material is needed and how you did this?

smbeddard

Sun, 08/19/2012 - 14:08

Dave, this looks great. It is exactly what I want to build for our family. It would be great if you could post the plans. Thanks.

azca33

Mon, 08/27/2012 - 17:49

Great job with the entertainment center, it looks great! Now you can enjoy not only sitting on the coach and watching TV, but sitting back and basking in the greatness of your skills! Good work!

kristenlotz

Mon, 12/31/2012 - 14:26

I love this project Dave-Mac. When I saw it I knew you must have gotten your inspiration from our brag. It is gorgeous. If we were to do our entertainment center again, I think we would incorporate a lot of the things you did with yours. I love that you did a stain instead of paint! Also the thicker stiles and the inset doors are amazing. We created plans for ours on our woodworking blog. Hopefully that helps others get started on their project. It's a lot of work, but it is a fraction of the cost of buying one. Great job! Here is the link to the plans:

http://www.jrlwoodworking.com/2012/12/furniture-plans-custom-entertainm…

kristenlotz

Mon, 12/31/2012 - 14:27

I love this project Dave-Mac. When I saw it I knew you must have gotten your inspiration from our brag. It is gorgeous. If we were to do our entertainment center again, I think we would incorporate a lot of the things you did with yours. I love that you did a stain instead of paint! Also the thicker stiles and the inset doors are amazing. We created plans for ours on our woodworking blog. Hopefully that helps others get started on their project. It's a lot of work, but it is a fraction of the cost of buying one. Great job! Here is the link to the plans:

http://www.jrlwoodworking.com/2012/12/furniture-plans-custom-entertainm…

DMac

Thu, 03/07/2013 - 10:17

It depends on what you are looking for. How complicated of a project are you looking to have built? If it is something on this site then I could build it for you.

This is Dave-Mac by the way. I couldn't figure out how to reset my password so I just made a new account.

Bookcase Dollhouse

We built this for our daughter's 6th birthday! Love how it turned out :D  As you can see we opted to leave the plywood backing off for the time being so she can use it as a doll house and play on both sides. When she grows out of the doll house phase we will either convert it to a book shelf, donate, or sell in a yard sale ... so many options!

Built from Plan(s)
Dollhouse Bookcase
Estimated Cost
$74 wood & white paint
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
One quart semi-gloss white paint (2 coats) bought at Walmart. Pink and green colors were left over paints from when we painted the walls in our home.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

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