Easy two step stool plans from Ana-White.com - I built this stool about 10 years ago, and it's still strong and sturdy! The kids carry it from room to room, use it many times every single day. I cannot believe how well it held up.
This stool might look a little complicated, but I promise you - if you can squeeze a jigsaw trigger, you can make it. It's just sides cut from a 1x12, a 1x12 bottom step, a 1x6 top step, and some 1x2s in there for extra support. Once you get it cut out, it's like 10 minutes to make.
It's got a full, wide bottom step, so I have found myself even using it.
Durable Finish
Not only has this step stool held up well in sturdiness, but the finish really is amazing me. The stool is still in very good shape for ten years of use!
Our power sander won't sand a curved cut, so these sanding pads work pretty good.
Another note - I was able to get a pretty good jigsaw cut on the two sides by using a fresh wood blade and clamping the two sides together and cutting as one. This really helps minimize the need for sanding.
After vacuuming the step stool ... we are ready for primer!
I used this Glidden Trim and Door paint and am amazed at how well the finish has held up. It was a paint to use because it's oil based, but so worth it.
I'll admit, I was a little nervous when I peeked in the paint room and took a look in the can - the paint seperates out so you must mix it. Nothing a little gentle stirring can't fix.
And when it dried, we were all super impressed with how thick and shiny the paint was, and how professional looking the one goopy coat ended up looking. Even in our dark Alaska days, the finish reflects it's so shiny!
Pin For Later!
Preparation
- 4 feet of 1x12 boards
- 18" of 1x6 boards
- 6 feet of 1x2 boards
- I used 1-1/4" pocket hole screws and 1-1/4" brad nails and wood glue
- 2 - 1x12 @ 12-1/4" - long point measurement, one end is cut at 5 degrees off square (sides)
- 1 - 1x6 @ 17" (top step)
- 4 - 1x2 @ 15" (supports)
- 1 - 1x12 @ 15" (bottom step)
Please read through the entire plan and all comments before beginning this project. It is also advisable to review the Getting Started Section. Take all necessary precautions to build safely and smartly. Work on a clean level surface, free of imperfections or debris. Always use straight boards. Check for square after each step. Always predrill holes before attaching with screws. Use glue with finish nails for a stronger hold. Wipe excess glue off bare wood for stained projects, as dried glue will not take stain. Be safe, have fun, and ask for help if you need it. Good luck!
Instructions
Step 1
Take the two side pieces and clamp them together. Use the measurments in the diagram to find the points and draw the curves. I used a jar lid to help me get the curves right. Then I carefully cut the sides out with a jigsaw, using a wood blade, and going slow, making sure my blade didn't bevel as I cut.
Step 2
NOTE: The order of assembly in these instructions is more friendly to pocket hole users. If you use a different type of assembly for joints, you may wish to alter the order of assembly.
The first thing I did was drill 2 pocket holes (3/4" setting) on each inside top of the sides (REMEMBER THEY ARE IN MIRROR!!!) and attached the top step. Make sure you leave 15" between the two sides, as all the other boards are cut 15" in width.
Step 3
Working down from the top, I then added the two top supports.
Step 4
And then I added the bottom step - it's just a 1x12.
Step 5
It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed.
Comments
birdsandsoap
Thu, 12/12/2013 - 00:17
A-ha! Where was this paint
A-ha! Where was this paint when I built my office desk last summer?! Since the finish is wearing, I might just have to try this paint for the second time around. I need a nice finish that can take a beating! Love this little stool, I think I need two.
dmcarwin
Fri, 12/13/2013 - 10:57
Love it!
I love this plan Ana, and the finish is awesome, I will have to try it!! Thanks so much!!
romanweel
Fri, 12/13/2013 - 11:40
Gah!
What a great-sounding paint! I wonder if it would be tooooo different a white from what I've already got on the first kitchen cabinet...cause it would be perfect on the uppers!
Great plans, too! What a lovely shape on that stool, and great stability.
cassiet717
Tue, 12/17/2013 - 21:33
Pregnant Projects!
Hi Ana! We are hoping to expand our family by one in the next year and your post got me thinking about pregnant building - what are the no-no's? I can guess the obvious (no heavy lifting or strong fumes, etc.), but I'm sure there are many things I'm not thinking of...
Love the step stool!
wendyintexas1853
Fri, 12/15/2017 - 14:21
Christmas gift and problem with lumber dimensions
We are making this stool for our family Christmas DIY gift exchange, and I was wondering about the size of the 1" x 12" in your plans . Here in Texas, our 1" x 12" lumber is 11 3/4" wide, not 12 1/4"as indicated on the plans here. Is that a typo or is there a diference in the wood there compared to here?
Sliberman7
Sun, 10/17/2021 - 11:48
Pritanle
Hi, do you have a way for me to print this project without all the ads in between? Very cute stool.