Community Brag Posts

Double-dogged

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 01/03/2016 - 09:47

Two big dogs, so two big houses . Long project but so cute. Don't worry, they are inside /outside dogs...

Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Outdoor stain, asphalt shingles, daisy chains.
Recommended Skill Level
Advanced

CA King Farmhouse Bed

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 03/22/2019 - 09:39

This was my husband's 3rd or 4th Ana White project.  We also had to go back for mre wood as the shopping list was not complete.  

Estimated Cost
$350
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

My Tryde Media Console Hutch

This was the second part of my Tryde media center build. You can read about the console build here.

This part of the project was very quick to put together, I spent a lot of time reading the brag board and looking at pictures of what others produced.  I really appreciate when people upload high res pictures of their builds so you can really look at the details - I've tried to do the same on my blog post about this project in case you needed further information (see link below).

I made the plan as per Ana's original, with some modifications.  These were:

  • added a back kickboard at the base for stability
  • added trim around the back and sides at the base to stop it toppling over
  • added felt to the feet to avoid scratching my console underneath (worked so hard on that one!)
  • added 'L' shaped brackets to join the two pieces together, for added stability (check my previous post for more details on this)
  • changed the orientation of the beadboard on the back to be vertical and not horizontal (I just preferred it this way)
  • after seeing Perchik's build of the Tryde media center I shamelessly copied his idea to extend out the trim around the top.  It looks much better wrapped around than jutting out the front, a little less severe I think

I hope you would give this project a go, as a hutch it is very simple to put together for a beginner and quite satisfying.  To get more information about my build please read my blog post where I go in to a lot more detail (and leave a comment too, I'd love to know what you think!)

Happy building!

Estimated Cost
Approx $100AUD (not incl hardware, paint)
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Taubman's Endure interior paint (satin) in 'Milk Paint'
Custom 'glaze' (see blog posting for details)
Cabot's wood putty in 'Radiata Pine'
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project

Comments

perchik

Tue, 10/25/2011 - 08:34

Annie this looks great!
I'm glad you found inspiration in my design. I think I'll go back and upload a side picture and the sketchup model I worked from so that other people can see the details of how I did the trim. I think yours turned out wonderful!

I don't like painted furniture in my home but I really like the look of your furniture. The antiqued white goes well with the stained console top and the faux drawers.

Great job!!

CreativePineapple

Tue, 10/25/2011 - 15:37

Aww cheers Perchik... You're right, the natural beauty of wood is lovely, but I have so many different shades of wood in my living room from collecting 2nd hand furniture and old college furniture over the years that nothing seems to match :) Plus I do like this modern trend of stained top and painted legs, it looks quite fresh. The hard part with this stuff is deciding which project to do next - so many to choose from :)

CreativePineapple

Tue, 10/25/2011 - 15:38

Oh also I think if you have that sketchup stuff to hand I would definitely upload it, I zoomed in quite a lot on your photos and others photos of completed builds to understand details that are sometimes difficult to visualise on the plans.

The Bandsaw and Boxes Go Together

Submitted by Jake on Fri, 10/18/2013 - 09:27

I just wish to point new bandsaw users toward trying to make bandsaw boxes as a way to really learn blade differences, tensioning, cutting curves, setting up the bandsaw and generally getting comfortable with your new tool.

The fun thing about bandsaw boxes is you can just almost cut free form and still have a great result. From start to finish it takes about two days some of which is just waiting and sanding.

Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
I use Danish oil but you can use what you want except I would shy away from paint.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

sgilly

Fri, 10/18/2013 - 16:31

I love the boxes, Jake. I did have an inexpensive band saw and I tried using it to make small boxes similar to yours. The saw scared me to death - when the blade came flying off I put everything back in the box and returned it! I'd like to, someday, try again.

In reply to by sgilly

Jake

Fri, 10/18/2013 - 18:14

I have only had my bandsaw about 6 months and in that time I have had two blades break and occasionally slip off the wheels. Bandsaws are considered to be one of the safest power saws you can use so don't be afraid but know where the off switch is if something happens. You just need to experiment with proper setup including the placement of guiding blocks or bearings, blade tension, and blade choice. Also a 3/16" blade can make a very tight turn where it would be foolish to try it with a 1/4" blade. I like a 3/16", 4 teeth per inch skip tooth. Youtube has many tutorials on how to make a bandsaw box.

sgilly

Fri, 10/18/2013 - 16:31

I love the boxes, Jake. I did have an inexpensive band saw and I tried using it to make small boxes similar to yours. The saw scared me to death - when the blade came flying off I put everything back in the box and returned it! I'd like to, someday, try again.

JoanneS

Fri, 10/18/2013 - 17:04

These are awesome! My son was looking over my shoulder at these and said, "Mom, you have to comment and tell this guy your son says these things are awesome!" And I agree with him! How did you cut them to fit the drawers? These are so cool, do you have any in-work pictures?

In reply to by JoanneS

Jake

Fri, 10/18/2013 - 18:24

Many thanks to your son for recognizing genius. Ha Ha Sure!

Everything fits because every piece is cut from the same block of wood. I want you to go to this link http://www.woodworkingformeremortals.com/2010/05/how-to-make-bandsaw-bo…

I was inspired to try it by Steve Ramsey of Woodworking for Mere Mortals and slowly progressed to what you see in my pics. Search Youtube and you will find a ton of bandsaw box videos.

I am limited to the size because of my small bandsaw but they are really fun to design and build, especially when you mix a variety of wood (including plywood) in your product. For your first box just take a 4x4 of any wood and cut into a 8 or 10 inch length and go from there. If you screw up it hasn't cost too much.

Pam the Goatherd

Fri, 10/18/2013 - 20:37

Thank you, Jake, for introducing us to bandsaw boxes! I've seen these for sale at craft shows and always wondered how they were made. They always look so complicatedly intricate. After watching that tutorial I now know that I CAN make them, too!!!! I've had a bandsaw sitting in my barn/workshop for several years and have only used it once. Now I think I'll be using it quite a bit more!

Daughter's Vanity

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 01/04/2016 - 18:38

Made this with an oversized removable center top. Wanted this to double as a vanity and art table, so I made this with a 20" deep center top. By being removable (set into slots) the two end pieces can later be used as separate storage shelves or night stands, as these are made from solid alder wood.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$125
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Paint
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

Desk X Build

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 03/26/2019 - 07:12

Full timelapse and thoughts in the imgur album.

Estimated Cost
$120
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Behr: Moonquake grey and Luck of the Irish green. Polyurethane on the top and drawer face.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Apothecary Cabinet

Submitted by evilanne on Sat, 10/29/2011 - 16:12

I painted the entire cabinet a dark blue, then painted over it again with an antique white. After it was completely dried I sanded it all down to give it a distressed look. I used antique label holders for the drawer pulls.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$350.00
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
I use this cabinet in my piano room to store all my music.
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

Guest (not verified)

Sat, 11/12/2011 - 02:55

It's funny cause I have been thinking about doing the same set up with the apothecary console under a wall painted tree. I have to ask how you made the tree - is it stickons or stencil (if so please tell me where you got them) or is it hand painted. It's absolutely beautiful!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Photo Gallery Made Easy!

Submitted by mdean on Mon, 10/21/2013 - 12:48

I love my new photo ledges. I had a huge space on my wall and these ledges are perfect. The ledges were so easy to make. I got a kreg jig for my birthday (I never thought I would ask for a tool for a birthday present) and I have gotten so much use out of it. I saw similar ledges at pottery barn for 10 times the cost of this DIY project. I saved so much with these ledges. The kreg jig has already paid for itself. The ledges make it super easy to switch out photos and I love being able to display so many fun photos. Everyone who sees these ledges loves them!! This was my first project. Thanks Ana for the great plans!

Estimated Cost
$50
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
White gloss spray praint
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project

Comments

Lift Top Coffee Table

Submitted by KL728MX on Wed, 01/06/2016 - 13:59

I used the rustic x coffee table for my inspiration for this project. I found the mechanism for the lift top table on the web and was able to work it into my design. I used oak plywood for the top instead of the 2x6's and trimmed out the rough edge, however, I have thought about redoing the top with the 2x6's to match my tv stand and end table. I am still really happy with the way it turned out though. After posting this I decided to upgrade the top as I had described and I am way happier with the look of it!!

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$150
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Rustoleum American walnut
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

Bench and mirror

Submitted by ogie287 on Sat, 04/20/2019 - 12:21

This is the 5-board bench and project #2 mirror from Ana's "The Handbuilt Home" book. The bench was shortened to fit the space that I wanted it for. 

Estimated Cost
$50
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
Barn red stain and matte polyurethane
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Modified Dollhouse

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 02/24/2023 - 07:06

A few years ago for Christmas, I modified the dream dollhouse plans by splitting it in half, putting it on wheels, adding hinges and a hook and eye catch to lock it closed. My nieces were able to move it themselves, play side by side, or be on their own side of the house. And if they want, they can separate the two pieces and use them individually or as bookcases down the road. Also, I painted it to match their home. 5 years later the dollhouse has withstood the test of 3 rambunctious girls and they still love it.

Comments

Forward facing bookshelf

Submitted by Kero on Thu, 10/24/2013 - 12:25

This was my first build and I think it turned out pretty nice. I had been considering a new bookshelf for my daughter's room for some time because the one we had was large and clunky. This takes up significantly less floor space which makes her room seem so much larger.

The hardest part of this I found was cutting the arches out of the 1x2s. I noticed a lot of other people omitted that part, but I thought it was a neat way to add some interest so I really wanted to keep it. Unfortunately, they aren't exactly symmetrical and the cuts were very jagged. But I knew I was going for a dark paint in those spots so with a little bit of sanding you can barely tell.

Speaking of paint, I didn't realize how much even a small quart was going to cost me, and I bought two colours! But it was definitely worth it I think. The white with plum purple accents is really sharp, and my daughter loves it. In fact, I'm already planning on building a complete bedroom set for her in the same colour scheme. Hopefully it works out.

Thanks for taking a look! :)

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$50
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Behr White and Grape Jubilee
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project

Comments

FongerB

Sat, 04/19/2014 - 06:19

Love the accent colour!!
I've been trying to figure out how to throw in a pop colour, this is it! Thanks!

Love my new built ins!

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 01/07/2016 - 16:47

built ins for my office-based on basic bookcase plans, and pieces from rustic bookcase plans.  I got a kreg pocket hole jig for this one- best money ever spent!!!  My husband didn't think I could do it but I did!  ❤️❤️❤️

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

Dress Up Tower for my four year old Granddaughter

I'm a furniture builder now! This is actually the fourth project built from Ana's plans, but the first one complete and gifted. I bought my materials in the morning, and had it together by late afternoon. Now choosing colors, trim and do-dads to embellish was a whole nuther thing. I opted for chalk paint with a wax finish, and distressed her. She has mirrors on both sides as well as two, double hooks for hats, belts and jewelry.

My grand daughter is one pleased princess. Me too! I'm proud of myself.

Thanks Ana for the terrific instructions, encouragement and education you provide.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$75
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
After a wood putty and a light sanding, I mixed Annie Sloan Chalk Paints to get the beautiful blue. It's one part Duck Egg Blue to one part Old White. No primer is needed with this brand, but I did apply two coats of paint. When dry, I used one coat of Old White to the outward facing walls, leaving the inside and top blue. A light sanding at corners and where natural wear might occur took off enough white so blue could show thru. I applied 2 coats of Annie's Soft Clear Wax to seal and waterproof the finish. I'm pleased with the finish.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

cathryn j (not verified)

Fri, 11/11/2011 - 09:19

Great Project! I really loved the heart embellishment on the inside of the top...it makes it even more interesting to look at from many angles.

Question: does the waxed chalk paint finish feel that it may wear away with use? I am considering this finish but have never felt it in person.

In reply to by cathryn j (not verified)

beckiedecker

Sat, 11/12/2011 - 19:20

I love the hearts too! Found them in a clearance bin at a local hobby supply store for .29 cents each. The price thrilled miserly me.

Regarding the wax, it feels very smooth and satiny. I'm new to the chalk paint and wax technique, myself, but I did research before using it. From what I gather, wax, in general, will eventually wear away and have to be redone. When the piece looses it's luster a soft rag should buff the sheen back. When you can't buff up a sheen, then it's time to rewax. It should last years. Ask me again in 5 years. :-)

Oh, I should add, the close up of the curly embellishment was taken before I waxed.

I came across a lot of conflicting info regarding the soft wax. Nothing bad, just different techniques, and it seemed the more I read, the more questions I had. Finally just dove in and found my way. I like, like the method!

Did I answer your question? And then some!

In reply to by margjack

beckiedecker

Sat, 11/12/2011 - 19:49

She's a foo-foo girl, so yes, she was excited. Even more so when she was able to stand in front of her own full length mirror and see how stunning she was in the princess outfit her Aunt gave her. So cute!

kareylynn

Sun, 11/13/2011 - 19:48

You did a beautiful job, and I love the finish! I built the same piece, but only gave it an antique white painted finish. I may have to try some of your techniques on my next build.

Where did you find mirrors to fit? I can't find them short enough...

beckiedecker

Tue, 11/15/2011 - 16:20

I'd planned to use mirror tiles, but while at the Lowe's buying trim and mastif, I came across 2 to a pack beveled mirrors for $19. They were the perfect size! Now that's luck.

dining table

Submitted by InSweden on Sat, 10/26/2013 - 14:52

We got idea from here, but we had to make our own plan for table to make it fit in to our home.. and we just love it :)

more in my blog http://kellarinkatkoissa.blogspot.se/2013/10/tee-se-itse.html

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
teak and hard wax oil
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Home Depot DIH Workshop Rolling Storage Cart

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Sun, 01/10/2016 - 05:50

I needed more storage in my small kitchen so I modified this cart to 42 x 20 x 96. One shelf has a sliding drawer. I am very new to all of this so I mistakenly overlooked accounting for the side ends of the shelves in my calculations. I left them off, but may go back and insert 1 x 2 to complete them. Not sure yet.

Estimated Cost
$80
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Rustic X coffee table and side table

I made these tables from the Ana White plans but for the side table I made it a bit larger to fit the space it was going to be going in. Stained the top varathane Dark Walnut and the bottom I painted white. 

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Farmhouse Toybox

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 03/10/2023 - 05:56

I've wanted to build a toybox for our daughter as soon as she was born, and Ana's plan was my favorite. It took a couple of years to finally get the supplies and start building it, and I was able to build it last year. I used recycled wood (I believe it's pine) I had and used a couple of nice pieces of oak for the top. I ran into a few snags with the box itself, with the wood splitting easily in some spots (used a lot of wood filler!), but was able to get it looking the way I wanted keeping a distressed look . I rounded out the corners of the top by hand with a rasp plane and sandpaper. The box was lightly painted with Annie Sloan Chalk Pain (Antoinette/Pink) and finished with Annie Sloan Clear Wax. The top was finished with three coats of linseed oil (24 hours between coats). The slow closing hinge was found on Amazon after a long time spent searching; I ended up using just one which works great. I'm very happy with the end product and my 3-year old daughter loves it! I was very pleased with how simple the plan was to follow, thank you Ana!

Built from Plan(s)

Comments