Community Brag Posts

Adapated shoe cubby to on its side with LED lights.

Submitted by forbeskm on Thu, 03/21/2013 - 22:26

This is an adaption of the shoe shrine shelves. Since I didn't have a closet or other room than the bedroom to put these, I put them on their side. I modeled these off the shoe shrine shelves.

Each cubby is 11 3/4 deep x 8 x8 for the long version. The 2nd version I made was only 48 inches wide and did not divide well so I simply left the center cubby wider. I also made the 48" version to have different height shelves for purses in the middle and flats on the bottom.

I basically flipped the shoe shrine's on their sides and added LED lights. This also inspired a tall version for a cubby we had upstairs.

I used a panel saw to cut the plywood and then assembled with a Kreg pocket hole jig for horizontal pieces and biscuits for the top and the dividers. I did not want to fill the holes or I would have used Kreg instead of the biscuits.

I used 3/4" paint grade plywood and a 1/4inch back panel.

LED lights came from LED wholesalers on amazon. This step requires electrical knowledge! Not much more than a wiring a light but do not attempt if you are not qualifed to do so. LED strings required a fine tip soldering iron, wire and heat shrink.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Latex Behr Swiss Coffee sprayed on.
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

forbeskm

Fri, 03/22/2013 - 11:50

The LED's came after we designed them. I was like there is no light where these are going and its hard to see inside the cubbies. This is true for the bottom cubies which are only 5 inches tall. So for 30 bucks a cabinet it was a quick and easy addition that really made them pop. Only downside is it can make the room look like you are in Nordstom's :) so she doesn't leave the lights on regularly.

Kai777

Thu, 09/18/2014 - 01:42

Very nicely done.  Do you mind telling me more about which particular LED product you used and the process to wire them in?  Did you mill out any part of the cabinet to set the lights?  How are they activated?  Thanks in advance.  You can also email me at [email protected].  Much appreciated!

Book shelves

Submitted by Marisol on Wed, 03/27/2013 - 15:55

I have had these for a while but never finished with the painting, the most dreadful part...but found some chalk paint that I love, and will always use chalk paint to finish all my projects now.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
free- scrap material
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
I used Annie Sloan Duck Egg and made my own white chalk paint with a recipe found online that worked great with Paris Plaster, water and flar behr paint, I only got a tester for $3, plaster $6. Annie Sloan $65.
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project

Comments

4x4 Truss Beam Table and bench

Love this plan and the table and bench turned out exactly as I hoped.  I did it by myself except for a little heavy lifting from my sweetheart. I researched the finish online and I am so happy with the results.

Estimated Cost
With finishing products and screws this was approximately $200
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Minwax Pre stain conditioner, Minwax English Chestnut *( 2 coats), Varethane Poly *( 3 coats) then #0000 steel wool to smooth the bumps then Minwax Paste wax hand rubbed until the finish was perfect.
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

wjc129

Tue, 02/10/2015 - 08:19

We have been shopping for tables and cannot find anything we like for a good price. I keep going back to building one myself. Your table top looks great .. nice and flat. Did you follow the plans to a T, did you use a kreg jig?

roadtripmom

Tue, 02/10/2015 - 22:13

I did change the dimensions of the top a little. I wanted a wider surface. I did use a kreg jig, it made it a breeze to build. I spent a lot of time on the finish, sanding, using steel wool, and several coats of polyurethane. Thank you for the compliment !

Closet Tower

Submitted by JoanneS on Sat, 04/27/2013 - 12:03

This closet tower is from the Craft Room Storage Tower plan, and made mostly with left overs from other projects. I wanted a shallow tower storage just deep enough to hang pants and slacks in, and to use a 12" wide door I already had in my garage. At Target I found some kid-size hangers that were just the right size - about 12" wide. Trouser hangers are about this same width, but they weren't available in-store so I went with what they had. The only things I bought for this project are the knob, hinges, some 1x2's, and the hangers. The sides are from a lengthwise half-sheet of C/D plywood, ripped down to 12" strips on the table saw, with 1x2 edge joined at the back to create a "toe kick" to clear the baseboard. The front is trimmed out in 1x2 with a scrap of 1x3 to trim the top. The removable closet poles are from a flagpole, and the ends are held in place with some 1/2" craft boards. The back is 1/4" plywood. The longest part of this project was the sanding, because the plywood wasn't the pretty kind - used lots of wood filler on the knots and as a grain filler, then sanded it a lot. This project took about 9 hrs total, (sanding took the longest), construction with the Kreg jig and nailgun was very quick, and then paint and adding the door and poles. The removable shelf was added as an afterthought and is a scrap of plywood, with some S4S to hold it up, and a 12" scrap of moulding across the front of the shelf. It is 82" tall, 13 1/2" wide, and 14 1/4" deep. It's a perfect pair with the 6-cube tower that I built from Ana's cube tower plans a couple of years ago.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$36 (for knob, hinges, 1x2's and hangers)
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
Ace Royal semi gloss paint in high-hiding white (left over paint)
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

yurra-bazain

Fri, 08/30/2013 - 17:56

This is such a clever build! :) Thank you for sharing in detail how you put this together. =D I love how tall this is and how little floor space it takes up, which is especially a big issue for smaller home dwellers like myself. =D

JoanneS

Sat, 08/31/2013 - 06:23

Yvonne, thanks so much for the nice comment! I just love tower storage, you get so much for such a small 'footprint' in the room. We've replaced our bulky dressers with towers, which makes the room look much more spacious. If you build some, I'd love to see pictures!

There are 2 other items not mentioned above, that I added during this build: I added the 1x3 at the top of the insides, to help keep the joined side boards tighter together at the top (at the time I was thinking the joint might try to pull apart if it got humid). The second thing (you can hardly see this in the photo) is a 12" piece of 1x2 attached across the back, spaced between the 2 closet poles. This was added to help keep the side pieces the same distance apart when attaching the back, and provided an additional place across to nail it. I thought it would help make it more rigid. This piece is used every day, and so far it has held up great. :)

Large porch bench

Submitted by Lukilla on Mon, 09/27/2021 - 13:51

What a fun project, and great bench. We had someone ask us if we could make this for them, and we decided to make 2 while we were at it.....now we just need to find a spot big enough for the second one at our house. Loved this build, and look forward to sipping coffee on it on a cool morming.

Comments

Seasonal And Holiday

Planter

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 10/04/2021 - 12:53

Started with the 3 plank plans from Anna's project, then dremeled the logo.

Built from Plan(s)

Comments

Cat Tree/Condo

Submitted by Joni on Sat, 05/11/2013 - 07:22

I always wanted a cabin-type cat tree where my cats could crawl in and feel safe, but still have a great view of the birds out of a window. I tried to draw my vision on paper, but that had a hideous result. Learning Google SketchUp (at least the basics) was an absolute necessity. I could never have built this without drawing it in 3D first, and seeing how the boards would connect, etc.

For the scratch pad, I built a frame out of 2x4s on top of plywood, covered it with carpet, and dropped the standard size scratch pad in place. This is the cat's favorite feature. I put barn doors on the window with tiny hinges so that I can close for added privacy. The tree sits against a window so that the back side is totally open. I made cozy zippered cushions for the platforms (that can be taken off and washed). I covered the carpeted areas with spare carpeting.

Estimated Cost
Approx. $30 for can of paint, varnish and a 4x4 (all other was scrap material)
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Combination of Minwax Water-based stains: 6 parts Colonial Pine: 1 part American Walnut, followed 3-4 coats Minwax Polycrylic
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

bhoppy

Fri, 07/12/2013 - 09:36

Would you mind sharing your dimensions for this? It is absolutely beautiful!

Jodi W

Sun, 08/25/2013 - 08:10

Do you have the plans somewhere? I really want to build this (even got the okay from the hubby!) but I don't think I could do it without some serious guidelines...

Joni

Fri, 08/30/2013 - 15:55

First, sorry for the late notice; I just happened to look and saw the comments/questions.

I don't have plans...all I have is a google sketchup diagram that I created as a guideline for my construction (which is included in the photos), which is not to scale. Actual measurements are:

* Base (green carpeted base): 33.5" x 19"
* 4x4 legs: 35" tall
* 'Mezzanine' scratch pad level: 22" x 17.5"
* Mid-level base: 18" x 32"
* Enclosed cabin: 18.25" x 22.5" x 17" high
* Highest point: 56"

This has turned out to be a fantastic hit with the cats. They use all 5 levels, but the scratch pad and cabin are their favorite spots. If you need anything else or additional pics, please contact me.

Jodi W

Fri, 08/30/2013 - 18:15

Thanks for the dimensions, Joni! I'm trying to learn SketchUp so I can draw up my own plans, also. If I can't figure it out, I'll hand it off to my 12 year old, who is a pro at it (go figure). I know my cats will love it if I can manage to get it built!

Joni

Thu, 10/31/2013 - 14:30

Bhoppy -- I looked at your cat tree on facebook. It's awesome! The sturdiness of it shocked me too. And I was initially worried that my cats might knock it down!!

The worst part of building it was getting that lower scratch pad level on straight with the 3 posts. I'd never want to do that again!
Thanks for sharing, Joni

gregmasciola

Fri, 01/02/2015 - 01:18

Funny, almost every time I'm looking for ideas or inspiration when I want to build something, I end up back on this site. I was searching for pictures of cat trees and this was the only one that made me say "Holy crap, that's EXACTLY what I want!" My cat will love it!

M0710NM4N

Mon, 04/27/2020 - 20:41

Not sure if anyone is still around to see this, but I fell in love with this tree the second I saw it. Wondering if anyone created a detailed plan and might have it handy or possibly a detailed sketchup and wouldn't mind sharing the save file?

In the event nobody has either... I'm planning on having someone else build this for me as I don't have the tools nor skill to do it myself. I have a few questions:

1. The tree base/platform, what's a good recommended thickness?
2. The platform for the scratchpad... is there any certain reason it's so much thicker compared to the other platforms?

Thanks.

whiteroses9

Sun, 09/12/2021 - 11:51

Reverse engineering this project, using just 2x4s. None of the photos show the undersides. How are the plywood pillow bases attached for the top and bottom of the cabin? and the base of the top viewing platform?

Hall Tree made from old door

Submitted by novofinds on Fri, 05/24/2013 - 20:56

This is my first Ana-White build and I love it so much! I used a 100 year old door for the back and antique knobs for the hooks. I plan on making a farm house table next :)

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
120
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Annie Sloan chalk paint in old white and olive on the inside. Waxed and lightly distressed.
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Cute corner cabinet!

Submitted by rmurray87 on Sun, 06/02/2013 - 11:24

This project took me the majority of a three-day weekend to complete, but it was well worth it! I had the lumber store cut the beadboard panel for me so that it would fit in my car. This was also the first time I built something with doors on it, which was a bit of a learning curve, but came out alright in the end. I used pocket holes to build the face frame, and attached the shelves to the frame first before attaching them to the 1x8 back. I used 1 1/4" pocket hole screws and 2" wood screws. I left off the trim at the top and didn't bother to cut out the footer, but I think it still looks pretty cute.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$110
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Accent color: Appletini from Valspar
Main color: Earthy Mushroom Taupe from Glidden

Everything was given a good sanding and a healthy dose of primer before painting.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Farmhouse Nightstand

Submitted by RenoRustic on Tue, 05/12/2015 - 10:17

I built this nightstand when my wife and I purchased a new bed. We had to rearrange the bedroom and as such, I no longer had a desk or table on my side of the bed. I wanted something "country" style and after searching through several different plans I found a brag post that fit exactly what I was looking for. Well, technically, I found the original Farmhouse Bedside Table plans and modified them to fit what I needed. It wasn't until after I completed the project that I realized there was a "Mini" version as well. What can I say, I'm not that great as using search. I actually built this over a year ago at this point, and it was the second project I ever built. I learned quite a bit on this project, including the fact your project will only come out as good as your lumber selection! This build actually created my addiction for DIY and woodworking. Thank you Ana!

Estimated Cost
$40
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
I used Minwax Special Walnut for the entire project, then painted the base and drawer Behr white (their basic white off the shelf, I didn't have the paint mixed) in semi-gloss. I antiqued everything for a more rustic look.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Cedar Toy box

Submitted by Kassidy_D on Fri, 11/19/2021 - 19:22

My first project, I've never done any kind of wood working at all. I made and noticed several mistakes however, I'm still very pleased with how it turned out. I learned from all my mistakes and now know the best ways to avoid them in the future. Super excited to begin my next project!

Built from Plan(s)

Comments

DIY Planter Box

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 12/12/2021 - 17:37

My very first project. Was so easy thanks to Ana's instructions. Dark walnut gel stain and Fusion Seaside. Thank you so much Ana.

Comments

Reclaimed Cedar Board 10x 10 Barn Greenhouse

Submitted by bailie on Sun, 04/24/2022 - 13:02

Thank you for sharing your plan!

10×10 greenhouse made with re-claimed cedar boards from old barn on Menlo, WA

Built from Plan(s)

Comments

rick1956

Wed, 06/08/2022 - 05:52

Beautiful! I like the fact that you bucked the trend and turned your clear panels for Washington rainwater runoff. There are good and bad with both directions, vertical makes the most sense. I can see myself re-doing ours at some point to change the panel direction. At least they're pointing the right direction on my skylights.
Great design, and of course, I love the 'live edge' details you added throughout!

Loft Bed for Renee's Room

This is the 2nd of two loft beds I have built using Ana's plans - they came out great and my girls love them! I did make some modifications to each, as the girls have different needs. It was a great project and I would like to thank Ana for the concise plans, cut lists, ideas, etc. You made it so easy!

If you are interested in seeing more about this project feel free to visit my blog at www.mothersmusings.net. See you there!

Estimated Cost
$150.00
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
I must say, if I had it to do again I might have upgraded on the wood, but I got the cheapest pine I could find. This led to using A LOT of wood filler and sand paper - and probably took me about twice the time it would have taken had I used prime wood. I used an oil based primer to make sure the knots stayed covered, and 2 coats of Behr high gloss white paint for the finish. Extra work...yes - but ultimately I think I cut my cost in half.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Love love love my new bedroom!!!!

Submitted by DogDoc25 on Tue, 08/27/2013 - 18:49

I've posted pictures of these separately, but I'm so excited about how these things came together in my room! This is the reclaimed wood headboard (queen) and the mini farmhouse bedside tables (only 1 pictured but the other is identical). Thanks so much Ana (and friends) for these awesome plans which have given me a fun thing to do in my free time and also inexpensively furnish my house!

Finish Used
Minwax Jacobean (looks slightly lighter in the picture than it is in real life)
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Cottage bedroom bookcase

Submitted by yhaas on Thu, 10/29/2015 - 20:42

I used 1 x 10s to make the bookcase a little shallower, and left the back open. Thanks for the great plan.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$100
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Varathane diamond finish water-based polyurethane, satin.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Christmas Tree Shelf with Lights

I made this Christmas tree shelf using the plans here.

 

I modified it by adding on two shelves so that it could accommodate the 6 hooks I needed for my family's stockings.  I also hot glued a string of lights to the perimeter.  This is serving as our Christmas tree due to space constraints, so I wanted it to be "fancier" and more like an actual tree.

I think I did ok for my first real build and my family seems to really like it.

Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Rustoleum Sage Green spray paint in Satin
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Charcuterie Board

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 12/28/2022 - 15:27

Made a this for my step-daughter and her husband for Christmas. Love your projects, and am learning to do everything on my own which is so empowering thank you for sharing and encouraging all us girls we can do it!

Comments

Pretty AND Functional Wall Shelf

To finish off my bathroom remodel I built the Martina wall shelf. I reused the metal hook that was previously on my wall before the board and batten treatment. It fit perfectly in the space under the shelf meant for hooks. I wish I had measured out my towels and storage needs. I could have actually stored more if I had adjusted the plans to make the shelf a little deeper and a couple inches wider. Overall, I'm very pleased! The Kreg Jig is a fun little tool, too!

Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
primer/sealer (1 coat)
Valspar High Noon in Flat Enamel finish (2 coats)
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments