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The Boy's Bed

We had the Upside-Down bed from IKEA for our little guy, but my husband continued to complain on how he had to "crawl" into the bed. Okay, scrap that. No problem. I just searched Ana's plans for a nice bed I could make. And add a trundle. There you go.

I did modify the height of the headboard, as I plan on moving Jack to an upstairs bedrooms that has slanted walls. I wanted this bed to fit in any configuration, so I had to take 10" off the headboard. Also, due to the impending moving, I wanted the bed to easily be taken apart. So I attached the side rails with surface mounted keyhold brackets from Rockler Woodworking. They work great.

Built from Plan(s)
Farmhouse Bed (Twin Size)
Trundle for Bed or Storage
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
I love to distress and antique furniture, but to my husband's delight, I just decided to paint this bed. I used Sherwin William's Regatta. I first put on two coats of primer and then 3 coats of the paint. I did want to use my nifty Wagner spray gun, but we were having really rainy weather and I couldn't set up outside. And because I'm impatient, I just decided to brush it in the garage.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Guest (not verified)

Mon, 08/29/2011 - 07:51

Great job! I am hoping to make two of these for my boys and would love to have the trundles. Could you give the specs on that? Thanks!

debandtom25

Wed, 08/31/2011 - 17:42

The specs will be different depending on the size mattress you have -- what I mean by size is height. I just used a foam mattress that was only 5 inches high. I wanted the mattress to fit bigger than the sides of the trundle, so I might have made it just 4 inches high (not including the wheels underneath). I made sure I had about 1.5" of clearance total between the headboard and footboard to move the trundle in and out.

Just make sure you take into account how thick your mattress is, the widths of your boards and the height of your wheels. Give yourself a little room for bedding and you should be all set.

Guest (not verified)

Mon, 11/21/2011 - 10:06

The bed looks awesome! The hubby and I are gonna attempt to make one just like it (with the shorter headboard as well). I also have a 5 inch mattress for the trundle. The questions I have are: 1) How much space did you leave between the floor and the bottom of the trundle? 2)What is the distance between the floor and the bottom of the side rail? 3) did you use the 1x10 for your side rail? (we are going to be using a 1x8 instead). 4) Did you order your casters from Rockler as well, or find them at a home improvement store?

Thanks so much, in advance!

debandtom25

Wed, 11/23/2011 - 11:58

1. The sides of the trundle are not flush with the bottom. The bottom (that the bed rests on) is about 2" higher than the side rails. This allows room for the wheels and about an 3/4: between the floor and the side rails. This measurement will all depend on the size of the casters you get and how much room you have beneath your bed for the trundle.
2. As mentioned above, there is about 3/4" between side rail and bottom of floor. Like I said before, it's total preference and how much room you have to work with.
3. I did use a 1X10, mainly because I like the look of the wide board.
4. I got the casters from HD or Lowes (can't remember).

Hope this helps!

Guest (not verified)

Sun, 01/29/2012 - 23:15

I love this and am going to make for my sons bed but I didn't see what you used to attach the sides to the base...unless I just didn't see it. :-) Did you use "L" brackets?

Saadia (not verified)

Sun, 03/25/2012 - 12:30

Hi, I was just wondering how you adjust the cleats when you are using the rockler brackets? I plan on using 2 x 8 for the siderails so there isn't enough room to fit the bracket and cleat along the edge. Did you have to shorten your cleat by just a little bit?

KAD050209 (not verified)

Fri, 08/17/2012 - 23:32

I was wondering if you could tell me how many inches the gap is from the bed to wall (where you have the bed horizontal against the wall)? Just trying to get an idea; my daughter is young and don't want her falling between the gap at night :) Thanks ahead of time!

debandtom25

Wed, 09/05/2012 - 20:16

The gap is about 3.25". I remember one of the first nights that Jack slept in his bed he fell in the gap. I wasn't expecting that at all. We just stuffed the extra bed pillows in there at night. We don't even remember to do it anymore and he's never fallen in again.

Small Garage Workbench

Submitted by dmozer74 on Fri, 12/18/2015 - 21:17

Easy project. I needed this bench a bit smaller due to space constraints so this is 28" x 42". I kept the height the same and finished the surfaces with some thick polyurethane. It should be noted my cost was a bit higher due to buying a sanded plywood, coated self-tapping screws and a more expensive polyurethane. I also went a bit slow on this project and it took about 2.5 hours including application of the single coat of poly.

Built from Plan(s)
Easy DIY Garage Workshop Workbench
Estimated Cost
$75
Estimated Time Investment
An Hour or Two (0-2 Hours)
Finish Used
Satin polyurethane.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

patio living room - modified from modern chair plan

Submitted by herbsuprb1 on Wed, 06/12/2019 - 09:09

I created two sofas, a love seat and a table by modifying the modern chair.  I added a back extension, tipped the back back 10 degrees, and angled the seat platform down a few degrees.  Considered doing Adirondack arms, but my wife preferred the rectangular shape.  The table is a variation of the 2x4 patio table (base construction similar), but we substituted pine 4x4 legs for the 2x4s, and implemented a 2x6 "picture frame" around Mexican tile on top.

I used pocket screws to attach the arms to the sides, and also to hide screws on the table "picture frame".

All-in-all, I would say this is an elegant-looking patio set that should last quite a while.  Very solid, very heavy to move around (my only complaint).

We plan to add some colorful throw pillows.

 

Built from Plan(s)
Modern Outdoor Chair from 2x4s and 2x6s
2x4 Outdoor Coffee Table
Estimated Cost
This project was created from a Menard's metal siding trim "shipping crate" that they refused to take back on return - so the many 16 foot 2x6s came to me for free. With hardware, stain, sanding pads and the pocket screw jig, I would guess I have about $300 there. The cushions were somewhat expensive, but are built to last - got those from Ikea - "Duvholmen" and "Folsom" haha - 24 1/4" x 24 1/4" cushions, 24 1/4" x 16" back pillows. Those were about $65 (per SEAT) .. so 8 for this project ($520). The cushions only come in this light tan, or medium/dark grey.
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Behr semi transparent outdoor stain (Padre Brown). First sofa was assembled then stained (mistake). The other pieces were cut, sanded 60/120 and stained. Arms were additionally sanded with a 320 grit prior to staining. Stained all pieces two coats with small roller, then brushed over. Assembly after staining produced a cleaner look on the stained finish.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Simple Bed Bunks

Ok, to start off with I am a guy and I love to build things, but I'm not some techincally savvy dude. I need simple plans and this was an awesome build! I love it, my kids love it, and most importantly my wife loves it. As others have said, It is BIG. but small things I did saved some space. For instance I cut the 3" off of the tops of the headboards to save 6" of linear space. Little things went wrong along the way, but they always do... finished in about 4 days workings sporadically. I've got about 350$ in it, and couldnt be more pleased. I will definately build more things from your plans. IF anyone is thinking of building it DO IT! Definatley need the KREG Jig. I should have bought that thing a long time ago. would have made several projects easier.

Built from Plan(s)
Simple Bed (Twin Size)
Simple Bed [Full Size Bed Frame]

DIY Cedar Bird Feeder

Submitted by JamieLynn on Fri, 07/19/2019 - 12:48

Took some liberties on this one. Used paint stirrer sticks for the roof.

Built from Plan(s)
Easy Build Cedar Birdfeeder
Estimated Cost
Used all scraps and paint that I had laying around
Estimated Time Investment
An Hour or Two (0-2 Hours)
Finish Used
Random paints
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project
Seasonal And Holiday
Spring
Summer

Thank you!

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 02/06/2016 - 17:12

Thank you for the plans!  Love the shelves! 

Built from Plan(s)
DIY Garage Shelves [Freestanding]
Estimated Cost
$150
Estimated Time Investment
An Hour or Two (0-2 Hours)
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project

Nightstands

Submitted by kwlogue on Sat, 05/06/2023 - 20:08

Fun and rewarding projects to finish. Took me way too long to finish, but 2 sever TBIs will do that to a person. Made a few modifications to the original King and nightstand plans but worked out fine. Thanks for these plans Ana!

Built from Plan(s)
Owens Nightstand

Comments

Fire-pit Life

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 10/28/2019 - 18:38

Fortunate enough to live on a beautiful river, my wife and I decided we were done bringing the folding chairs out for each weekly bon fire. Our three girls love s’mores and we wanted a great atmosphere with a place to easily grab wood and snacks in the dark while we enjoyed the outdoors. The combination of plans took us about a week to finish. The kids were away for the weekend and we rented an auger to drill the post holes. This proved to be the most difficult part of the project. It took nearly the whole weekend to dig out the unexpected granite and all the patience that we had in reserves. Once the posts were set, it was only a slightly uphill battle.
My wife made the bench in the time it took to return the auger and come home. The fire pit benches were also a pleasure to assemble and the most functional part of the project. I suspect the whole thing would have been faster if the large posts were easier to cut through. That treated lumber can eat saw blades! When setting the top posts it was also a two ladder and two person job. They were quite heavy and a little nerve wracking to set if you don’t love heights and a heavy load. We would do this project again in a heartbeat as it is a feature in our yard and makes for many enjoyable family and friend gatherings. The fire pit bench top is also great for hosting the entire bbq meal assortments to select from.

Built from Plan(s)
Large Modern Porch Swing Couch
Firepit Benches with Table and Storage
Estimated Cost
$1000
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
None, treated lumber, 3 years later and still looks brand new!
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate
Seasonal And Holiday
Spring
Summer

Cottage End Table

Submitted by JamieLynn on Tue, 04/01/2014 - 13:25

This was my 4th woodworking project and boy did I learn a lot! I was dead set on building something with a drawer and also with staining it. My first for both. For one of my first wood projects, I think it turned out cute =) It's a definite improvement on my first 3 projects!!

The plan was great, I changed up the top a little but not by much. Otherwise followed it pretty step-by-step. I did not do pocket holes (a Kreg Jig is my next purchased).

Estimated Cost
25.00
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
Polyurethane and English Chestnut Stain
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project

Modern slatted bench

Submitted by Whimwhams on Mon, 06/27/2016 - 11:51

I made this for my sister the day before her house warming party. It was a pretty easy build. I used wood glue and 2" nails. Using a nail gun, this came together pretty quickly. I do wish that I had wide enough clamps to hold everything in place while it dried, because there were a few gaps due to some imperfect boards. I used 104" stud length boards, so I only need to purchase 7 instead of 9. this was enough to make the cuts for the top and both leg pieces from each board. the price was the same and we had limited space in our van for boards, so this was a better option for us. I used a sprayer hooked up to an air compressor to apply the stain and was able to get in between the slats fine with this method, brushing over it as I sprayed. Luckily I chose the same color as her deck not knowing, so it matches great. Now I need to make one for myself! :)

Built from Plan(s)
Modern Slat Top Outdoor Wood Bench
Estimated Cost
$40
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project

Mud Kitchen for 2

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 04/07/2024 - 18:25

Mud kitchen made from scraps for my coworker’s kids. (Mud kitchen is a little kitchen to make mud pies and let the little imagination play.) They love it!

Aminnie Laws

Built from Plan(s)
Mud Kitchen

DIY Craft Table with Storage

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 04/13/2024 - 12:39

Your plans were easy to follow. Made our DIY so much easier. Material sheet was perfect. Made a few small modifications and used a butcher block for the table. Finished product turned out great. Thank you again.

Lisa A.

Built from Plan(s)
Modern Craft Table

Comments

Shelby Storage Bench

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sat, 10/15/2016 - 00:34

Built this from the Jen Woodhouse plan. 

Blog Link
Shelby Storage Bench
Estimated Cost
$75
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Chalk paint
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Tapered planter

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 07/13/2020 - 07:40

Next time, I will cut the 1x2 and 1x3 at the 5 degree angle to match the top and bottom planes...
Thanks for the idea! It is great

Built from Plan(s)
Tall Wood Planters
Estimated Cost
30.00
Estimated Time Investment
An Hour or Two (0-2 Hours)
Finish Used
Sanded with 80 grit and clear polyurethane
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Wooden Sandbox with Convertible Bench / Cover

I make and sell kids picnic tables on craigslist and a buyer asked about making one of these. I took it on and found the plans on here very easy! I now list these on craigslist also and hope to sell more before the summer is over.

Built from Plan(s)
Sand Box with Built-In Seats
Estimated Cost
~$100
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
none, until PT has dried
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Outdoor Sectional and Pallet Coffee Table

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 11/20/2016 - 17:56

Hi Ana! 

My husband used your plans to build the 2x4 outdoor cedar sectional :) He did it in 1 day and it couldn't have been easier! He even tried first time working with pallets to make a small table and it came out perfectly too! Can't wait to enjoy family time on our new back porch.

Thanks Again & Love From Austin ❤️

Kathleen 

Built from Plan(s)
2x4 Outdoor Sofa
One Arm 2x4 Outdoor Sofa - Sectional Piece
Estimated Cost
$350
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
Stain
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

meredithl

Thu, 10/24/2019 - 16:35

Hi, your furniture is beautiful.  May I ask:   Where did you find your cushions?  And what color/ brand stain did you use?  Lovely job.

Seasonal And Holiday
Spring
Summer

Router table w/ rockler table, fence and lift

Submitted by 1n4001 on Fri, 11/02/2012 - 08:19

Built Patrick's Router table and added a rockler table, fence, and lift to finish off.

Built from Plan(s)
Patrick's Router Table Plans
Estimated Cost
~$90 in lumber and hardware + ~$460 for table top, fence, and lift + $170 for bosch 1617evs router
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
raw, probably sand and spray some poly on it in the near future.
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

Patrick Hosey (not verified)

Fri, 11/02/2012 - 09:10

Yes! Enjoy. It'll be the most valuable tool in your shop trust me.

patrickhosey

Sat, 11/03/2012 - 19:28

Here's a tip for that 1617 router. Try putting a bandaid over the on/off switch. That thing will get gummed up if left uncovered. It's annoying.

jimssolidwoodp…

Sun, 03/05/2017 - 21:13

My question for Patrick is when he built the top section for 2 small drawers and middle section for the router access..

Did Patrick put on top a 3/4" pc of plywood then the router table top.

Can l attach my router table top to the top pc if 3/4"plywood then my table top is 1 3/4" thick that it would be to thick could you email to let me know please.

Jim

medicine cabinet

I used the jewelry cabinet as inspiration by adding crown moulding to the top and b-board to the door and changing the measurements.

Estimated Cost
30-40
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
two shades of paint, distressed to reveal first colour
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner
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