Community Brag Posts

Cedar shed with green roof

Submitted by R E on Sun, 09/22/2019 - 12:23

I built the shed during the summer of 2018, following Ana's plans but with the addition of a green roof. After almost a year the vegetation -- a variety of native plants from the upper Midwest -- has started to fill in pretty well. (The dangling "vines" are wild strawberry plants.)

My carpentry skills are rudimentary so the project took a long time but was worth the effort.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Wolman Durastain semi-transparent natural cedar stain
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Modern Outdoor Chair from 2x4s and 2x6s

After a whole year I finally made a second chair! The first one was made a year ago and now my wife can sit outside with me too 😊. Next for the couch!

Comments

Tryde Console Table

Submitted by Lee8717 on Mon, 01/09/2012 - 17:54

Tryde Console Table. First project undertaken. Decided to make a bottom shelf. Used 4 1x4s and notched the middle two to fit around legs. Being that is was out first project, we had a few problems with keeping everything square and level but with a few minor tweeks it ended up looking really good.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$70
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Semi gloss black. Before painting took sander and sanded the sharp corners off all boards making them rounded and distressed looking. After painting two coats, took 220 grit sandpaper to the edges to take off some paint to expose the wood underneath.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Fancy X table

Submitted by skippyjon on Wed, 11/27/2013 - 20:28

We are a foster family which means we have a large family. The Mrs. wanted a large table to fit 8-10 people, so off to ana-white.com i went.
Plans were perfect! Made one long 96" bench and two 42" benches from the same plans. I changed it up a bit by adding a perpendicular plank on the ends and trimmed it with 1x2's for look and strength. 2 coats of stain and 2 coats of polyurethane. Just in time for the holidays! Thank you again for the plans, this is the third thing I have built.

Estimated Cost
$300 total.
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Grandy Sliding Door Console

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 02/13/2016 - 16:33

This was a lot of work and a bit of frustration but now that it's done it was well worth it!!

Estimated Cost
$200
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Behr in Solid Opal
Minwax Weathered Oak
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Farmhouse Table

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 10/01/2019 - 18:01

I had a friend of mine ask me about building a table for her farmhouse and an anniversary gift . She has a large family and a very large space, and needed a table large enough to fill that space... I had no idea how large it would be. After going through some of my preliminary questions about the build I finally got to the dimensions. She said I’m thinking about 11’ ... she was serious...
I had never built anything that large, I was nervous and very excited. She started researching bases and she told me she liked the x base look. I knew I had seen it on the Ana White website. http://ana-white.com/woodworking-projects/triple-pedestal-farmhouse-tab… So I immediately went to work on the design with modifications in mind so an 11’ table would be feasible.
Their family also supplied the wood... they estimated it to be roughly 100 year old pine flooring from a house that they were tearing down on the property.
It was an incredible challenge, but it turned out to be so beautiful. It is my first and last 11’ table.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
140 and expendables ( lots of sandpaper, glue, pocket screws, biscuits and more sandpaper) in lumber since they supplied the wood for the top.
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Helmsman Spar urethane clear satin
Sand everything to 220.
3 coats natural bristle brush
Base was an oil based white paint.
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

Greenhouse

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 05/26/2023 - 15:26

We followed Ana's plans but went 1 ft taller on the pony walls to increase the height. We are so impressed with how it turned out. I'm excited to grow plants in Northwestern Ontario.

Built from Plan(s)

Comments

Console table

Submitted by lazyLiz on Sun, 01/15/2012 - 09:23

This is my first DIY furniture project inspired by Martha Inspired Craft Space Table posted by Ry. I built it for my combination of console table and craft space. I will be using the shelves in the middle to put my wicker baskets(that is why it was not nicely stained:-)) for quicker access of some of my craft stuff. Thanks for the plan!

Estimated Cost
$45.00
Finish Used
Red Mahogany stain and satin polyurethane
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Lady Goats

Sun, 01/15/2012 - 15:21

The plan that you linked to was actually posted by Ry at The Design Confidential! I'm sure she would LOVE it if you would hop on over to her site and post a brag blog there!

Great Job!

In reply to by lazyLiz

Lady Goats

Sun, 01/15/2012 - 18:21

Leave it here! I'm sure everyone here would LOVE to see this (it's amazing!). AND the plans were posted here. I just know that Ry loves to see, too! :-)

Guest (not verified)

Mon, 03/26/2012 - 15:11

Could you please post the modifications/measurements you made to this plan? I love your changes and would love to make something similar for my foyer.

lazyLiz

Sun, 04/01/2012 - 11:13

Console measures 43" long X 13-1/2"depth X 33" tall. The decorative sides were made from 1/4" x 1-1/2" x 8' Stain Grade Pine Lattice I got from lowes.

Rustic X Kitchen Island - DONE!

I had always wanted a kitchen island and saw this project. Seeing that the plans were well written I decided to tackle it. In addition I made a few small modifications to enhance the style of the island. These included using 4x4's on the corners and a IKEA butcher block top. The top allows for a larger surface area to work with and more space to sit under. The stools in the picture are from World Market and they were the perfect pair for the island. The island is great for family gatherings or just sitting with your morning coffee. I had family over for Thanksgiving and received lots of compliments. Thank you Ana!

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Valspar white latex paint from Lowes on the bottom and Minwax Mission Oak stain on the top.
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

MaryMurray

Tue, 12/03/2013 - 17:43

I love how this looks. This is actually next on my list of projects, thanks for the inspiration!

Jcalloc

Thu, 03/05/2015 - 08:13

May I ask what kind of wood you used for this project?

Single Lounger

Submitted by adburleson on Tue, 02/16/2016 - 12:23

I loved the simple look and have admired similar loungers at Pottery Barn.  Even if I had the money I feel it's a waste to pay for what they charge.  I knew there were plans somewhere to make something similar for a fraction of the cost.  So happy I found this site!

I have many tools at home so I needed to purchase the lumber, hardware (screws, hinges, etc.), stain, and sealer.  I would say it was about roughly $100/chair (rounding up) - not including the cushions.  Those I found at Lowe's for about $60/each.  

I haven't made anything like this before so I made the first one and took my time.  I really enjoyed the process and thought the instructions were simple to follow.  I have some skills and basic knowledge so I didn't feel like this was too difficult.  I love the way they turned out!  I did the 2nd chair the following Saturday.  It took most of the day including the finishing.  I only took a few hours to put one together.  If I had help, would have been less, no doubt.  I plan to make a double lounger to match these soon. 

I will agree with some of the other posts that the legs seem a little "flimsy."  I went ahead with the orginal plan and they've held up with no problem for a year in the Texas summer heat with lots of activity and use - including our dogs!  So, I guess it's just fine.  I may use something sturdier for the double lounger since it would hold more weight.

I highly recommend these loungers to cut costs!  Also, the plan is not too difficult for anyone with little experience.

Estimated Cost
I had to purchase the wood, hardware, stain, and sealer. I would estimate about $100 a chair (rounding up). Which is a LOT less expensive then purchasing something like this! The lounge cushions came from Lowe's and were about $60/each.
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
We used Rustoleum stain - Kona. My personal favorite.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Outdoor sectional

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 10/02/2019 - 04:17

Made the outdoor sectional. The coffee table was made out of left over pieces!

Estimated Cost
$260
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
We used a semi transparent stain applied with brush. We would recommend a hand sprayer instead.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Bird House against predator

Hi I was tired to see the magpies and flickers destroying the nest and kill the sparrows After days of research i came up with this model that i tested last summer and believe me, it was successfully accepted by sparrows This year i made bunch of them, some different models till i get to the yellow one style that is perfect I really loved it and i'm here sharing it with you guys I will share plan for this bird house in my Instagram next week (June 12)

Comments

dresser for my daughter

Submitted by jerfer on Wed, 01/18/2012 - 18:58

I designed this off of the laundry basket holder.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
home depot pink paint 2 coats...
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Liana (not verified)

Thu, 05/03/2012 - 06:38

Great option & smart. Now, after seeing your changes to the original, I am thinking of making one similar to yours but build it to hold all my craft storage bins.

Nicole Carlson (not verified)

Sun, 05/20/2012 - 11:44

I was wondering if you had the plans for the project. I would like to make one of those. So what are the project plans? ( Wood used and the cutting measurements. )

planked wood sideboard

Submitted by frannyc on Wed, 12/04/2013 - 17:24

Had to resize length to 64" so it could fit in the room. Took me a little longer than 20 hours. Also distressed the wood to make it look rustic. Plans were great! Thank you!

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Old Masters provincial stain
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Side-Street Loft Bed

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 02/19/2016 - 07:41

This is a mix the "Side-Street bunkbed" plan and the "How to Build a Loft Bed." I used "Spax" 3 inch wood screws to attach the side rails instead of bolts used in Side Street plan.  I used KregJig pocket holes for everything else. 

Estimated Cost
$250
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Behr paint: Anonymous
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Farmhouse dining room table set

Submitted by Jenvin06 on Wed, 10/02/2019 - 12:01

My spin on the 4x4 truss beam table. Fun and rewarding project. I received many compliments on this build.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
175.00
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Latex paint, carbon grey stain and wipe on poly.
Recommended Skill Level
Advanced

Outdoor sectional with drop cloth canvas rollouts

Submitted by dubtodd on Thu, 06/08/2023 - 21:09

Slight mod, table added from wood picnic table that the sectional replaced.

Comments

$10 Ledges Shelves... Favorite Project!

I love how these turned out! I did use my Kreg Jig to attach my back and bottom boards, but you could easily pre-drill and use regular screws. You can see a full tutorial at http://www.shanty-2-chic.com/2012/01/20-shelves-anyone-can-build.html !!

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$10
Estimated Time Investment
An Hour or Two (0-2 Hours)
Finish Used
Rust-Oleum Wood Care stain in Dark Walnut
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project

Comments

Child's Fire Station Loft Bed

Submitted by docfin02 on Sat, 12/07/2013 - 14:14

I used the plans for the fire station loft bed (http://ana-white.com/2011/11/fire-station-loft-bed), but added the stairs from the camp loft bed (http://ana-white.com/2012/07/plans/camp-loft-bed-stair-junior-height) since my son is young. I was afraid of him climbing down the ladder at night if he wakes up. The stairs are not attached and can be removed when he is older. They were designed so he can climb through the space where the lower rungs of the ladder were and use underneath the stairs as a fort, etc. The project took quite a bit of time and cost about $500 (not including the Kreg Jig or mattress).

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
500.00
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Mini console table

Submitted by Mikegarrod on Sun, 02/21/2016 - 21:50

First table built by us. I think it turned out pretty good! Custom built to avoid baseboard heater. 

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$30-50 depending on if you need stain or not.
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
Minwax stain, water based paint and Minwax Polycrilic.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

kg112677

Tue, 06/28/2016 - 19:09

The plans catalog link does not work. Can you please repost these plans? Thanks

Dunnie

Sun, 01/15/2017 - 21:24

I am in desperate need of instructions for

this mini console table.  I can't find them anywhere. I won't be able to modify other plans, lol I need it all planned  out.

theUgly_bear

Tue, 01/17/2017 - 12:35

i plan on making this next week, so i can update you with the plans, the only thing i am doing different is the way i am doing my cross in the back. 

stay tuned 

theUgly_bear

Tue, 01/17/2017 - 12:35

i plan on making this next week, so i can update you with the plans, the only thing i am doing different is the way i am doing my cross in the back. 

stay tuned 

Mrs.tash

Sat, 02/04/2017 - 13:12

This is beautiful and simple! Great job!

You costum built it to fit the baseboard, were the original plans Ana White's? Can you link it or tell me the name to find it?

I'm new to the site and not navigating very well. I'm trying to save plans for a console similar to this to my profile/account and looking for the little "save to plans" to easily find this again

Our first new bed

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 10/03/2019 - 05:47

My husband and I have been married for 14 years and have never had a new bed. In fact we have been sleeping on hand me downs our whole lives. I completely fell in love with this bed plan and it was in our very tight budget! We are in heaven. We now have a beautiful farmhouse bed and even a new mattress. We couldn’t be happier with how it turned out.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$200
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
Varathane weathered wood
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner