Community Brag Posts

My first build - work bench

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 12/28/2021 - 17:11

Hi Anna and everyone else that read this. My name is Scott. I got into woodworking to have something to do after I retire retire. No, that's not a typo. I retired the first time from the military, but right now I'm still working. For a couple more years. Anyway. The first photo was my workbench to build my workbench. The second photo is the all the cut wood. The third is the finished product. Mistakes were made, of course, but I learned from them. For example, the plywood is what I believe is termed 'exterior'. I figured, it was going to be hammered on, drilled on, painted on (you get my drift). What I didn't count on was splinters from the very rough surface. I sanded it. And sanded it. And sanded it. Now I just wear gloves, LOL. Since then I've also built a set of "Owens Night Stands" of yours. My wife loves them. Me - I see all the mistakes I made while building them. I'm hoping to learn from them also. BTW, Anna, that video you made for setting up drawers? Wish I'd seen it earlier, would have been a lot of help with those 2 stands, LOL. Last thing - I always remember everyone saying 'measure twice, cut once'. For me, until I get better at this, it's measure 3 times!

Comments

Reclaimed Wood Desk Caddy

Submitted by melaniesue on Tue, 05/10/2011 - 12:11

I wanted to build something fun and challenging for me. I was inspired to do more caddy things because of Anas fun plans for her Soda Caddy. I often try to design my own plans, (the old fashioned way, because skechup hates me!). I LOVE to look at pictures online, and just see if I can replicate it somewhat. So this Desk Caddy is what I came up with. I used all old wood that I had in the shed, and was begging to be made into something fun! I think this would be cute for so many different areas. Outside, you could organize your gardening items, seed packets, shovels and pots. It could be an awesome message center, mail area. Whatever!

If the dimensions are with the image, it's much easier for me to figure out, this one had dimensions, so I just went with my gut and I think it turned out ok. It sold in my booth, at our local antique mall in 2 days.

Without the Kreg Jig, I would not have had the confidence to build this, and sell it. I love the Kreg Jig!

Clearly I need to get a new camera, and need to take better pictures, SOON!

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
Free
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
Steel wool/vinegar mixture, slight dry brush in an oops white I had on hand, 2 coats of satin poly.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Bookshelf wall unit

I fell in love with a set of bookshelves from a big box store (ahem, T@#get) but was disheartened to find that they would not help me get the corner shelf ordered to Canada from their website.

With inspiration from Ana, I decided to design and build the whole thing myself. It cost 1/3 the price, and as my first wood project, I'd say it turned out pretty well.

I made my design to work best with the wood available local to me, and to fit specifically in our room. The biggest challenge wasn't wood-related at all, but was actually dealing with the electrical outlet that I needed to attached to the base of one shelf.

Check it all out at my blog; http://projectjumanji.blogspot.ca

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$350
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Minwax Jacobean
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Loft Bed Full Size (12 inches shorter than plans)

Submitted by NWhited12 on Mon, 01/15/2018 - 11:10

We made these beds for the kids as their Christmas present. They’re full size and we plan to add shelves later. We had to cut them 12 inches because the kids were hitting their heads on the ceiling. I added white Christmas lights under them. I LOVE how they turned out!

Built from Plan(s)
Finish Used
I used MinWax Stain
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Farmhouse Table & Bench

Submitted by CHRISSYK on Sat, 01/01/2022 - 10:47

This was my first big project. Plan was so easy to follow. It took awhile but so worth it. I have had so many compliments on it. Thank you Anna!

Built from Plan(s)

Comments

Rustic x coffee table

Submitted by PNWbuilder on Wed, 07/01/2015 - 09:44

This is my second project. I used all pine. The top is stained special walnut then added poly acrylic sealer and the bottom I sprayed with Rustoleums heirloom white. This one was a lot of fun and I love the result. Since this picture, I added corner brackets sprayed with Rustoleums oil rubbed bronze (my fav-so good!).

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
100-125
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Rustoleums heirloom white (spray can) and special walnut for the stain. Sealed with satin poly acrylic
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Storage Bench

Submitted by Jdschrag on Fri, 01/19/2018 - 05:28

Inspired by the Vintage Bench plan we created this Little Bench for our Daughters Shoes and other stuff!  Added Trim work and layered Paint to create a Vintage look.

 

 

 

Estimated Cost
$40-50
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Layered Enamels to distress and finished with a Clear Wax applied with soft rag
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Poppy's Bed

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Wed, 01/05/2022 - 13:19

I started with the 'Camp loft bed with stair' plans and added height and a wall with window for my daughter's bed.
It is absolutely the coziest spot to sleep and a great spot to hang out. The landing is a great spot for reading too!
She loves it.

Comments

Beach Cottage Dresser

Again I'm sorry I have no plans, but what I do have is a great instructional video. Drawer slides are such a pain to install without the right tools. I'm sure you can find great dresser plans but the kicker is how you install the drawers. These inexpensive drawer slide mounting tools might save you from going insane. Check them out. http://youtu.be/vI3jgkhxxPE

Estimated Cost
$100-140
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Martha Stewart Interior Semi Gloss
Recommended Skill Level
Advanced

Outdoor Couch with Chaise/Ottoman

Submitted by NJ_DIY on Mon, 07/06/2015 - 08:56

This couch was super easy. The 2x4s cost about $30. The cushions were a little higher at $160 for all, but can't complain when spending so little. I bought the cushions first to assure the size would be adjusted correctly. It took about 30-45 minutes to put together. I say it's a weekend project because of the stain and sealer. Then the wife wanted a chaise also. I decided to make it an ottoman so it's a chaise when she wants and an extra seat when we have extra company. I went with the color Kona for the stain and applied clear satin spar urethane 3 times since it was raw wood initially. Excellent project that really completed my outdoor space!

Estimated Cost
$30 for 2x4s,
$160 for cushions,
$25 for stain and spar urethane,
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Kona stain,
Spar Urethane
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

NJ_DIY

Mon, 07/06/2015 - 20:16

They were on sale at Target, but they were running out. We initially wanted the Navy Blue but when this was the only color available we settled but now we couldn't be happier. Fits in with our backyard perfectly.
The cushions are Threshold Deepseating Outdoor Cushions. They do get soaked in the rain but I suppose they're outdoor cushions because once the sun is out they dry instantly. Let me know if I could help any further!

NJ_DIY

Mon, 07/06/2015 - 20:15

They were on sale at Target, but they were running out. We initially wanted the Navy Blue but when this was the only color available we settled but now we couldn't be happier. Fits in with our backyard perfectly.

The cushions are Threshold Deepseating Outdoor Cushions. They do get soaked in the rain but I suppose they're outdoor cushions because once the sun is out they dry instantly. Let me know if I could help any further!

mtnluvnfun

Sat, 10/03/2020 - 23:56

Are the plans not posted to your website? I built a 90" version of your plans that are for 79" couch and want to use an ottoman as a versatile chaise similar to this layout.

X End table

Submitted by smurf1018 on Tue, 01/23/2018 - 19:42

One of my first pieces of furniture I built.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Steel wool and apple cider vinegar mixture and Minwax Polyurethane
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

2x4 Garden Beds

Submitted by binah06 on Wed, 05/18/2011 - 09:37

My husband and I were inspired by Ana's plans, but needed to use up some wood we had laying around the garage because it was starting to bend and warp. We made the large box 2x6 ft and the smaller one is made from scrap and is about 15in x 2.5 ft.

Estimated Cost
free
Estimated Time Investment
An Hour or Two (0-2 Hours)
Finish Used
none
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project

Bunk and loft beds

I designed and built these beds with the help of my husband and daughter. We spent about $350 on the materials and about 4 days in the Texas heat to build it. My kiddos absolutely love them, especially my 7yr. old. His is the loft bed with a ladder system and a bookshelf, and area to play underneath. The bunk bed is for my 18yr. old and my 14yr. old, so it had to be extra sturdy. We built everything out of 2x6s except the bookshelf. It was built from 1x12s and plywood.

Estimated Cost
350
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Ebony stain
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

Rustic "X" Coffee Table

This was my first project from Ana's website! She does such a wonderful job making the plans easy to follow for the novice builder.

I really needed a rustic coffee table for my new living room. All of the retail stores expect you to pay hundreds of dollars for a table less than half of the quality. I am so happy with how the table turned out! I already have a list of other furniture that I want to add to my home. Thanks so much for all you do, Ana!

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$50-$75
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
I used one coat of Minwax Special Walnut (wiping off immediately after brushing it on). Once that dried, I went over it with Minwax Weathered Oak (left it on for about 5 minutes before wiping it off).
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

DIL's blanket box

I built this for the DIL ( Daughter in Law) for combined Christmas/Birthday present. Made entirely from recycled Rimu (NZ hard wood) that was at least 150 years old when milled, I wanted to preserve some of that history so some original sawmill marks are there in the top. Finished with Briwax (Rimu) wax & 4 coats of enamel satin poly. The main framing was from Rimu 4x4 posts that were very solid when trimming to actual needed size (40mm x 40mm). Used half lap joints, reinforce with screws.

Comments

Our First Project

Submitted by Simplyel on Fri, 05/20/2011 - 19:56

My dear husband built the bed and I painted it. He found that it was easy to make. Thank you Ana, we love it. We are waiting for our new mattress!

Estimated Cost
Less than $175.00
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Latex White Paint. I want to distress it but he is not sure. Figure we will live with it for awhile and then decide.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

2 couches and tables

Submitted by Polysoup on Sun, 07/14/2013 - 07:40

I bought two sets of Restoration Hardware cushions on clearance and they worked out great. I had to adjust the measurements a little bit but that went pretty quickly. I came up with a plan for the tables to match the couches.

The tables are both 30x30. This way I can use them as 2 tables, one large table, ottomans or seating.

I LOVE the cushions. They are 6.5 inches thick and were dry 3 hrs after a rainstorm. There was no way I could have sewn something cheaper.

Thanks for the plans Ana!

Estimated Cost
$250 each (including cushions) Tables - $30 each
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
White Sherwin Williams paint (forget the exact name) and a stain for the cedar details
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

Mini Farmhouse Bedside Table

Submitted by calirun on Sun, 07/12/2015 - 13:31

I built this for my daughter's room.  It is my second build.  It is the perfect size for her room.  I used chalkboard paint for the top surfaces.  The knob is from Lowe's.  Thank you Ana White for providing these fun plans!  I am excited to start my next project!!!  

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
Annie Sloan Pure White Chalk Paint (2 coats). Annie Sloan Clear wax (one coat). Black chalkboard paint from Lowes (2 coats).
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Awesome Toy Box

My dad and I built this toybox for my son on a weekend afternoon.  We were able to use some tongue and groove boards that my dad had pulled off a job site.  We glued them together to get the width we needed then cut them to size according to the directions.  Its not perfect, and I think I might paint it this spring, but my dad and I made it for my son and I think that is pretty awesome! 

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$10 for glue and nails. Wood was free!
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Our First Project: A CA Mudroom

Submitted by jcablopez on Tue, 07/16/2013 - 11:28

I've been looking for a storage solution for the area next to the driveway we use as our main entrance. The area opens to the kitchen, dining, and living rooms. We had a computer desk here, but it just ended up piled with junk all the time and backpacks and jackets ended up on the floor.

I fell in love with the smiling mud room plans as soon as I saw them, but it took a while to convince my husband we should try to build it. I used the Smiling Mud Room plans and modified to add the computer desk section since we couldn't move our internet cable. It didn't have to be really big since we don't use the desktop computer very often.

I still need to find baskets for the shelves and I'm planning to make a fabric skirt to cover the computer and cords. My kids already got out their old backpacks to test it out, so hopefully they'll use it!

We bought the Kreg jig as recommended and now my husband is planning lots of new projects just so he can use it.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
I used a tinted primer and Valspar Signature semi-gloss paint in Posh Red. It took 1 coat of primer and 2 coats of paint. The plywood took the paint better than the pine, so some of the trim got 3 coats.
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

My biggest project to date.

Submitted by bkis1969 on Thu, 07/16/2015 - 13:43

I made this bar several years ago after returning from a deployment to Iraq. I used the spillway as a convenient location for some of my military award coins. At this point I had little in the way of skill so it is rough but everything else being equal, it turned out just fine for the garage man cave.

Estimated Cost
800.00
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Tile Top, Black Walnut Stain, Light Oak Stain, and Varnish.
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate