DIY Dog Gate

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Difficulty
Beginner Projects
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I was sick of the baby gate I was using to keep my pup out of trouble. The baby gate was ugly, marked up the woodwork and that metal on wood clacking noise when locking it in position drove me to the moon. Clack, clack, clack... ARGH!!! 

I could do better than a baby gate and this is what I came up with. A simple folding barricade. Sure, I know you can buy these. But I design and build stuff, that's what I do!

 

It doesn't require many tools and goes together quickly thanks to pocket screws. The best part is the size is fully customizable to your situation and it can be painted to match any room of your house

 

 

 

 

Preparation

Common Materials
120 grit sandpaper
primer
paint
paint brush
Tools
Tape Measure
Speed Square
Pencil
Safety Glasses
Hearing Protection
Kreg Jig
Drill
Miter Saw
General Instructions

Please read through the entire plan and all comments before beginning this project. It is also advisable to review the Getting Started Section. Take all necessary precautions to build safely and smartly. Work on a clean level surface, free of imperfections or debris. Always use straight boards. Check for square after each step. Always predrill holes before attaching with screws. Use glue with finish nails for a stronger hold. Wipe excess glue off bare wood for stained projects, as dried glue will not take stain. Be safe, have fun, and ask for help if you need it. Good luck!

Finishing Instructions
Preparation Instructions
Fill all holes with wood filler and let dry. Apply additional coats of wood filler as needed. When wood filler is completely dry, sand the project in the direction of the wood grain with 120 grit sandpaper. Vacuum sanded project to remove sanding residue. Remove all sanding residue on work surfaces as well. Wipe project clean with damp cloth.

It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed.

Comments

Creative Craft

Mon, 01/29/2018 - 07:56

I built this over the weekend, a wonderfully beautiful design and great use of material to minimize waste.  However, unless your dog isn't going to ever touch this while setup, you'll need to add some base/foot supports to keep it from toppling over when touched or bumped by an inquistive dog.  Our dog also tends to slide it closed and passes right by, so added a dowl to keep the shape open is also helpful.  We've loved this style design so much we were happy to tweak and make this style gate custom to fit our needs of our curious dog.