Community Brag Posts

Picnic Table Benches

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 11/11/2024 - 16:33

Love Ana’s plans. Wanted something simple as I’m new after building this deck.

The addition of the small scrap allows a single pin to work for the picnic table and very comfortable bench position. This has been a big hit. Thank you, Ana. - Jim

Seasonal And Holiday

Two tone rustic table

Submitted by ChicGeek on Sun, 10/12/2014 - 16:35

I used three 2x12s for the top and 4x4s for the legs. Everything else pretty much the same.  Final table size 36"x60". Longest/hardest part was sanding and staining

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
Under $100
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Legs: Rust-Oleum Heirloom White
Top: Rust-Oleum Stain Kona
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Barn Door Console

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 01/23/2017 - 19:01

made from poplar and pine.  Painted with a coat of black paint then painted with 3 coats of valspar furniture paint in white.  I then sanded all the edges to bring the black thru.  The hardware is made from a metal bar and wheels made with pulleys from home depot.  I even weaved the baskets myself! 

 

Just kidding about that last part.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
275-300
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
valspar furniture paint
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Outdoor Deck Tables

Submitted by Scott-F on Sun, 10/11/2020 - 18:34

My wife and I were looking for a dining table for our deck. We looked at a few to purchase but could not decide. I wanted something that would not take up a lot of deck space. When the Facebook post for the "Outdoor Bar Table" came up, it inspired me to try to build a similar table. I already had purchased a Kreg HD pockethole jig for a project I never got to (At least yet), so I figured construction would be pretty simple.

I should say my tables are loosely based off of Ana's plans, they served as a good reference. I lowered the table to 30" to match our existing deck chairs. I decided to actually build 2 half tables, so that when we were not using the table they could be set to the side of the deck. The back of each table is constructed with 2x4s so when the tables are put together it maintains the 4x4 look.

For the tabletop I had extra composite deck boards that I never used for the deck, so the depth of each half table was based on using 3 deck boards, with a 1/4" gap between each deck board. I used the same hidden fastener method I used on the original deck, so the deck boards are secured from under the table.

This being my first pocket hole project, there are a couple of small mistakes. 1) On the 45 degree trusses cut all 4 at the same time, then did the pocket holes. I missed the fact that I needed to drill 2 of the pocket holes on the opposite side. 2) I built the 2nd table back on top of the 1st table back so they matched. but I got mixed up when assembling the 2nd table so the pocket holes that should have been on the side facing the other table back, are facing the opposite side.

I did use Treated lumber for the table frame, and some of the pieces were still pretty wet, so we will wait until next year to paint the base.

We really like how they turned out, and that we still have almost all of our deck space when the tables are in the "Stored" locations.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$85
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
None as of yet, Plan on painting after treated wood dries out
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project

Comments

High Loft with Desk

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 11/18/2024 - 10:06

My sons tiny box room needed updating. He wanted something more grown up. The brief was "a high bed with a den underneath". As with all Ana White plans it was easy to follow and gave me the inspiration to build something bespoke to a very limited space. I have added a desk for him to do homework. He's over the moon with it. Thank you for the inspiration. - Harry

$20 Planter Boxes

I built these as one of my first project with the Kreg Jig...It worked great! I stained them with the left over sample cans of my behr deck stains from when we were deciding what to put on the deck. They turned out to be great and the perfect size for our deck!

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$20 each
Estimated Time Investment
An Hour or Two (0-2 Hours)
Finish Used
Behr solid deck stain
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project

Comments

Boys Chrismukkah Tool Trugs

Submitted by brickton on Fri, 10/17/2014 - 05:32

I did a near direct copy of the tool trugs from Jamie and Ana using some 1/2" birch plywood and 1/2" craft wood from Home Depot. I was really happy with the ipswich pine stain that darkened the wood and gave it less of an unfinished look. 

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
Maybe $20 total for both trugs. I bought some little stain and sample paints when I could have just used what I had laying around, and some of the wood was scrap from other projects so it's hard to say.
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
Minwax Ipswich Pine stain on the main body, Minwax Provincial on the bottoms. The paint colors are mostly Martha Stewart Living from Home Depot samples, the only two names I remember are Cornbread and Barn Red.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Barn Sliding Door Console with Hardware plans

Submitted by Doomwerk on Wed, 01/25/2017 - 07:47

Followed the plans to build this.

 

I used the following pully from McMaster (if you don't have an account, you might know a friend or someone who does):

https://www.mcmaster.com/#3434t116/=162dxqq

 

I've attached prints for the barn door stuff I made and thought it would be nice to share. 

 

Thanks!

Built from Plan(s)
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Recipe Tablet Stand

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 11/25/2024 - 13:41

Recipe/Tablet Stand- This turned into a 5 minute build after cutting and sanding.

Cut list is 2 pieces 1x4 -10” long

2 pieces 1x2 - 7”long

1piece 1x2 for strapping on the back,

1piece 1x4-6” long then cut in half diagonally (30 degrees) for the back kickstand.

Glue and brad nailed together. - Brittany M

Swiveled Bookshelf with Mirror and Cork Board

Submitted by miki0225 on Tue, 01/01/2013 - 19:49

I saw a cabinet like this on Pottery Barn's website (for $600) and I knew I wanted to build it for my 12 year old niece and could do it cheaper. I have only built one other thing so I am a beginner. I do not recommend this as a first project because if it wasn't for my husband figuring out the "lazy susan" part and fixing a couple other "oops" then it would not have turned out as great as it did.

I started with the plans for the 5 Cube Tower Bookshelf and then went from there. I ended up with only 4 shelves because of a miscalculation on my part. I cut off the legs and added crown molding to the top. Used plywood for the 3 layered base and quarter round for the decorative look. The base is heavy, which I wanted because of the 2 pegs on opposite sides for hanging things (she's 12 and purses, scarfs, clothes...there is no telling what will be hung there). I added molding to both side of each opening so that as it spun things would not slide off. I have no explanation for the lazy susan because my husband figured all of that out.

The Cork board and mirrors were easy. I bought the cork in a pack of 4 squares at Walmart and the mirrors in a pack of 6 squares from Lowes. We placed and glued them on before adding the molding around the edge. Fyi: I tried to use the $5 full mirror from Walmart but it was to wide. I bought some cute buttons and cut off the loop part to glue flat metal tacks to the back. She now has decorative thumb tacks. I painted it white and then top coated it with polyurethane.

We absolutely love this and so does she. It is in her room and I think looks amazing. Can't wait to share my next projects that are almost complete.

Estimated Cost
$125
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
White paint and polyurethane
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

Mandy3689 (not verified)

Wed, 01/02/2013 - 01:19

So great! I just found this at PB Teens last night and thought NO WAY! For $600!!! I had exactly the same idea as you did.... Build a 5 cube tower and make it spin. Ana rocks! Thanks for sharing!

DIY Farmhouse Table

Based on Ana White's Instructions and Cut List, here was our purchase list:
(figures are rounded)
 
Heat Treated Wood:
$12 (4) 2x4@ 8 feet
$9 (2) 2x8 @ 12 feet
$6 (1) 2x8 @ 8 feet
$8 (1) 2x10 @ 8 feet
$55 | (1) 4x4 @ 10 feet **
**This was difficult to find.  We couldn't get it at Lowe's or Home Depot,
but found a small local wood yard.
 
Other Materials:
$9 | Rust-oleum Kona Wood Stain
$18 | Minwax Polycrylic
$10 | (2) Pocket Hole Plugs
$4 | 3" Foam Trim Roller
$8 | (2) 2.5" Pocket Hole Screws
$6 | 3" Wood Screws
 
Total Cost - $145
Estimated Cost
$145
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
MinWax Polycrylic 3 coats - Semi Gloss, but will be finishing it again in Satin (Maybe).
Rust-oleum Kona stain.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Farmhouse faux reclaimed lumber headboard

Submitted by wacman on Sun, 01/29/2017 - 12:31

A simple headboard with new pine, distressed to resemble worn barn wood or other reclaimed lumber.  I used a wire brush drill bit to eat away at the soft wood of the outside frame, raising the grain and adding a tremendous amount of texture.  The inside planks are full-width boards that I scored with a circular saw to create false joints.  Each section was stained with a different hue to emulate individual reclaimed planks.  I coated with a layer of semi-gloss polycrylic and then a coat of clear cream wax.

Estimated Cost
$100
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
Minwax stains (espresso, classic grey, mahogany & ebony), Minwax semi-gloss polycrylic, American Decor Clear Cream Wax
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Outdoor Canopy Bed

Completed this project last week off of the plans here under outdoor! I Love it and plans were soooo easy to follow!

Estimated Cost
150
Estimated Time Investment
An Hour or Two (0-2 Hours)
Finish Used
Painted white with exterior paint, outdoor fabric and twin size air mattress.

Comments

Train Table

Submitted by Nolan on Thu, 01/03/2013 - 08:42

This was the first project I did from Ana, and the plans and directions were excellent. My son is 20 months old with a Thomas the Tank Engine obsession....I had told my wife I would make a train table for him for Christmas and this was the one she found. The little man was extremely excited on Christmas morning, and it turns out I ended up building a babysitter in the process.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
I stained the project with Minwax dark walnut 2716 (2 coats). Each coat was rubbed on with a cotton cloth, and excess was then wiped off after 10-15 mins. I used Minwax fast drying satin sheen polyurethane (3 coats) to finish. I used a foam brush to apply the poly and sanded between coats with 400 grit sandpaper.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Open Concept TV Stand

Submitted by zjlawlor on Wed, 10/22/2014 - 16:22

Saw a bunch of TV stands in this style on Etsy but they are just WAY too expensive. Found out I could simply order the hairpin legs from Etsy and build one myself. Much cheaper! I chose cedar. It allowed me to go the extra width I wanted (6 foot) and keep the project lightweight. It is a soft wood and prone to scratches and dents, but most of our other furniture is reclaimed and upcycled so I'm not worried about wear and tear. 

Estimated Cost
115$
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
Kona color stain with poly protective coat.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Poker table

Submitted by Trishalado on Wed, 02/01/2017 - 07:27

Using the Benchmark Octagon table plans found here for the inspiration for our poker table we completely customized the top and modified the base to suit our needs! The dining top cover is yet to be finished but we are definitely thrilled with the result thus far especially seeing as though it was our first ever build! 

Estimated Cost
$500+
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

Modern Slat Top Patio Tables

Submitted by Indiri on Sat, 10/24/2020 - 17:36

The little tables I had on my front step were super ugly and it was time for an upgrade. I raided my scrap bins for most of the parts and only needed to use 2 new 2x4s but overall it would probably be 7 or 8 - 2x4s and 6 - 8' 1x4s to make all 3 tables

Estimated Cost
50
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
2 coats of spray paint (2.5 cans). With the slats being so close together it was the easiest way to get down in there.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Map drawer for Erin

Submitted by Quartney on Fri, 01/04/2013 - 13:16

My husband needed a place to store his stuff--maps, yes, but also cords, hard drives, and other things he didn't want the kids to get into. I took the coffee table plan, essentially cut it in half, then raised it up to fit four drawers. The best part was that I only made three drawers--the bottom one is extra-tall to fit his extra-tall stuff, but it has false drawer fronts. I also opted to skip the caster wheels.

Estimated Cost
$160
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Minwax Wood Finish in Jacobean
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

Bander

Fri, 01/04/2013 - 20:22

It looks wonderful. I have not yet attempted a project with drawers, are they difficult to get right?

Quartney

Sun, 01/13/2013 - 17:28

Thank you! Well, I've made one project with drawers that was fairly straightforward, and these drawers were more difficult, so I can't really say how hard drawers are! Like everyone advises, you have to make sure the drawer box is square ...

Rustic X Shelves

Submitted by Texjan on Sat, 10/25/2014 - 14:49

This project took a bit longer than I expected but the outcome was well worth it!  I would use the Kreg Jig plugs for the upper shelf because you can see the pocket holes.  I finished the inside shelves with American Walnut stain with a white wash.  The paint is American Paint Company in Uncle Sam, with dry brush of Shining Seas and Dark Wax.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Paint and Stain
Paint- American Paint Company Chalk and Mineral Paint in "Uncle Sam" with dry brushing of "Shining Seas" and finished with Dark Wax. The Shelves were stained with Minwax American Walnut stain with a white wash over that.
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Wine & Cheese Crate

Submitted by binamom on Fri, 10/30/2020 - 13:41

WE love these crates and have so much fun making them!

We have decided to sell these on Etsy and they have done well. we offer multiple stain colors as well as shou sugi ban.

(shou sugi ban traditionally involves scorching wooden boards with a torch or controlled fire, cooling the wood, softening the char with a wire brush, removing dust, and, if desired, topping the wood with natural oil)

Thank you for providing us with a source of income!

Estimated Cost
$14
Estimated Time Investment
An Hour or Two (0-2 Hours)
Finish Used
stain
brad nails
shlac
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

First build - Modified media console

Submitted by bd on Sun, 01/06/2013 - 13:59

I wanted to learn how to make furniture, so I decided this "Rebecca Media Console" knock-off would be a good first project. I made it a little deeper (15in) and narrower (36in) because I only wanted the center piece to put the Blu-ray player and some DVDs, cds, games, etc. I also added some holes to each section so that I can run electronics to it in the future if needed.

Painted with Valspar "Gilded Pesto" and Minwax Polycrilic - both in satin.

I definitely learned a lot from this project and it was surprisingly fun! There several errors in it, but I wanted to post pictures to help others who may be interested in modifying the original plans.

***Sorry for the side-ways pics. I can't find a place to change the orientation***

Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Valspar - Gilded Pesto in satin
Minwax Polycrilic in satin
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project

Comments

Bander

Sun, 01/06/2013 - 15:18

It looks great! To make the doors, did you just attach the face frame over a plywood piece of the same dimensions?

Also, where did you find that style of hinge? I have been unable to find those at my local big box stores.

bd

Sun, 01/06/2013 - 18:16

Thank you! That's exactly what I did with the doors. I didn't have the tools to make a rabbet, so I just cut the 1/4" plywood to size and glued/nailed it to the frame of the door. Seems to work just fine!

The hinge was at Lowes. I went there once and didn't find the right style hinges, but went another time and found the small section that had these 2" hinges. They have ones that are even smaller, but I thought these looked good and sturdy. They have 2 holes on either side of the hinge, if that helps. Good luck.

rhettar

Sat, 01/19/2013 - 05:17

You did a great job for your first project! Even the unfinished piece you have a pic of looks good. You even tackled doors, that is inspiring, because I haven't done that yet and my next project will have doors.

rhettar

Sat, 01/19/2013 - 05:17

You did a great job for your first project! Even the unfinished piece you have a pic of looks good. You even tackled doors, that is inspiring, because I haven't done that yet and my next project will have doors.