Community Brag Posts

Awesome project!

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 12/16/2019 - 07:09

Thanks for the awesome table plans. I ended up mixing a few different plans to fit what I was looking for. Everyone loves it!

Estimated Cost
200
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Oil stain and oil poly
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Built in closet

Submitted by AndyH on Mon, 06/13/2016 - 19:14

Built in closet to replace builder grade wire wracking.  Closet is approximately 11 feet by 5 feet.  consists of two shoe racks with 7 shelves each.  6 large drawers and 4 small drawers.  Two hanger sections with storage  above them.  End wall has hanger for longer items and storage above and a cabinet with shelves.

Yet to finish the floor.

Estimated Cost
$1000
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Sherwin Williams Extra White satin paint.
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Play Structure & Swing Set

Submitted by Colby032 on Fri, 04/18/2014 - 11:52

My second building project... this one took quite a while, building in the evenings after the kids went to bed.

The playhouse is based off of Ana's Playhouse Building series, with some modifications to fit the space in my backyard and accommodate climbing wall, monkey bars, and slide.

To put the main deck structure into the ground for sturdiness while protecting from moisture, I dug out 5 holes to fit single hole cinder blocks (4 corners plus an extra 4x4 for the monkey bars; you can see an leftover block on the ground in one of the pictures). I placed some brick in the holes, then the cinder blocks on top. I then partially filled the cinder blocks with sand, put the pre-built deck in the cinder block holes (with help - it's heavy!), and then filled the rest of the cinder block holes with sand. It's worked remarkably well - the deck has been up for about a year now. I also sprayed some clear waterproof sealant on the bottom part of each beam near the ground for extra protection (deck, monkey bars, climbing walls, and swingset A-frame). This has allowed me to still run sprinklers near/around the playset and even grow grass underneath the swings!

Materials used:
* Playhouse: pine, plywood, Suntuf solar grey polycarbonate corrugated roofing panels (I live in Arizona, so little rain to worry about but lots of heat - the sheeting lets light in but blocks most of the UV rays, corrugated shape also provides venting at top when placed sideways)

* Deck/Swingset/Monkey bars: treated lumber, composite decking, pine for railings, monkey bars purchased from Amazon

* Climbing wall: pine, treated lumber, handholds/railing bought off ebay/Amazon

* Swings/slide/bongos/wheel, telescope: purchased from Amazon

Modifications:
* Turned playhouse 90 degrees to be in back of the deck, with swingset coming off the side. This meant the support beam for the swingset had to pass through the playhouse - modified the frame for that wall slightly and created a notch for the beam to pass through.

* Slide comes out one end of playhouse - made the "window" on that end larger than the plans called for in order to give room for the slide.

* Monkey bars come off one side of the deck - used extra 4x4 here to create support for the bars, and used extra bars to make a ladder on this side

* Climbing wall instead of ladder for main entrance

* Put large window in back wall of the playhouse

* Added cross bracing to side of decking on swingset end to make it more solid/cut down on sway when swinging

Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Paint on playhouse, water seal on railings
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

yubbie2

Tue, 04/29/2014 - 20:41

This is phenomenal - just the plan & design we've been looking for. Can you upload a few more pictures? Any sketches you can provide? Shopping list? Really great job - I hope your kids love it. It looks awesome.

JeremyFox

Wed, 04/30/2014 - 04:53

Love it! I like the way it sits right next to a tree - I thought it was a tree house at first.

Colby032

Wed, 09/10/2014 - 14:03

Thanks! It's certainly nestled in right behind that tree - I originally was going to place it in between that tree and another one but then decided to just place it behind them in order to take better advantage of shade (critical in AZ) and fit in everything I wanted to put on it (monkey bars, swings, slide, climbing wall)

masons_momma2015

Mon, 07/08/2019 - 00:48

We've  been looking at these type of players for our son, and good grief! Prices are astronomical for playsets that are NOTHING like this. This absolutely an amazing  place for those boys to make memories. You're  amazing!  Do you mind if I ask what it cost once it was finished? I never imagined  that it would cause a tic in my eye to look at the kids from Lowe's or anywhere else for that matter.

Colby032

Tue, 08/20/2019 - 10:14

I don't remember how much it cost in the end... but probably around $900?  That may include getting some tools that I needed but didn't have at the time.  The slide was the most expensive single piece I bought - I think I got it from Amazon.

When it was all done, I remember thinking that what I got for my money was *way* beyond what I would have gotten by purchasing a kit or a pre-built play structure.  Plus, by going my own way, I was able to build it to fit my space and the needs/abilities of my kids.

While the whole thing is big and looks like an intimidating build, it really isn't bad - the platform is a fairly blank base to design everything else off of, and is incredibly sturdy.  Everything else is a discrete part that branches off of the platform and can be planned out as you need.  Adding the monkey bars required putting in a 5th upright (the first 4 are the corners), but that was an easy modification since I knew I wanted it before building the platform.  The playhouse just sat on top of the platform (screwed down, of course).

 

patelscope

Sat, 08/01/2020 - 20:40

Hello. This is pretty cool, probably the best modification that I am looking for from Ana's default plans. Could you please add some more detail on the right side wall, and how you incorporated the support beam through the playhouse? (with maybe a picture from inside of that wall). And secondly, if you can add the dimensions for the monkey bar setup on the left side of the deck? Thanks, much appreciated

Puzzle bookcase

Submitted by MandyM on Sat, 06/20/2020 - 15:59

Made over two weekends - used pocket holes - stain is charcoal grey and the paint is rainwater by Behr - had some issues with warped wood but it still turned out great - I did not secure the cubbies to the bookcases; my hubby likes the idea of being able to change the size - overall very happy! Plans are so easy to follow

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
100
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Charcoal grey and rainwater by Behr
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Kentucky Fried Hilton Chicken Coop

Submitted by redtrek on Tue, 05/18/2021 - 23:12

I took the idea of the "small cedar shed" and decided to upsize it for a new chicken coop. Our old one was small enough that we had to let our six hens out to roam the yard. Chickens. Poop. Everywhere. I wanted one big enough to have them live in it. The nesting box is about 24 sf. The whole coop is 18' long, about 6-1/2' at the back with a 15° slope to the roof, and about 4' deep. I built the ladder up to their nesting box and made a mitre-cut panel under the nesting box for cleaning out, feeding, and watering. Total materials cost was about $1000, but a couple of local homebuilders helped by letting me scavenge the lumber for the nesting box from around houses that they were finished framing.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$1000-1200
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Finish Used
Thompson's Clear Water Seal
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

Wine oak barrel Adirondack chair

Submitted by Medickep on Thu, 05/30/2013 - 12:11

I got some oak barrels from a local vineyard and decided to try making some adirondack chairs. It was harder than I thought it would be, but well worth it!! The stain was a little darker than I thought it be, but it's rubbing off on me!

predrill, predrill, predrill, and learned a valuable lesson in predrilling, as solid wood under strain cracks easy when using 2 1/2" deck screws!

I need to whip out the nice camera and stop using my cell phone for finished products!

Estimated Cost
Around 100.00 dollars per chair (depends on cost of barrel!)
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
I used Cabot's Australian timber oil. Not the cheapest product out there, but they actually recommend one coat only and no sanding necessary for future coats. Once it stops beading water, just clean the chair and than reapply! It penetrates deep and forms a wax protective layer that repels water! This is why I chose not to varnish the item!!
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

spiceylg

Fri, 05/31/2013 - 05:16

I never heard of using wine barrels in this way! I love it. It came out fabulous!

Medickep

Fri, 05/31/2013 - 05:34

Thanks you. People make a lot of stuff out of wine barrels. Chairs, stools, Tables, candle holders, and even serving platters!

Joni

Fri, 05/31/2013 - 06:57

This is awesome! Very cool design. It looks very comfortable! Thanks for the tip on the Australian timber oil; I never knew what would be the best finish for an outdoor piece.

Joni

Fri, 05/31/2013 - 07:03

This is awesome! Very cool design. It looks very comfortable! Thanks for the tip on the Australian timber oil; I never knew what would be the best finish for an outdoor piece.

Medickep

Sat, 06/01/2013 - 11:38

It is very comfortable, especially with a glass of wine. I chose the finisher I did because I live in Oregon with a lot of rain!!

Why does everyone's post, including my own show up as duplicate?

Medickep

Sat, 06/01/2013 - 11:38

It is very comfortable, especially with a glass of wine. I chose the finisher I did because I live in Oregon with a lot of rain!!

Why does everyone's post, including my own show up as duplicate?

acd4476

Sun, 07/21/2013 - 17:05

Awesome chairs! Beginning to think I need to make some as well. Did you have plans for this project or follow a generic adirondack chair plan?

My new and amazing outdoor bench

Submitted by ישראל on Sat, 11/16/2013 - 21:57

Thank you for the easy and fun bench plan.
It was really easy to install.
Even my 2 little daughters had fun (-:

Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
Bondex walnut
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project

Comments

Chachamation

Thu, 10/02/2014 - 07:21

This is absolutely amazing!

This "ישראל" person is super talented comes to the final touches!!  From now on, I will start following your work...

Farmhouse Table

Submitted by talvey50 on Sun, 04/10/2016 - 21:25

We were looking at buying this table at Restoration Hardware but couldn't get over the price. I love the look of the table but didn't want to take out a mortgage on it. Once I came across this plan, it was game over. Went out, got the supplies, and had it built before my wife knew what I was doing. It is built like a tank and even my kids can't hurt this! We get so many compliments on it , thanks!

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$200
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Steel wool and vinegar.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

tgrott

Mon, 04/11/2016 - 07:56

Beautiful!! The chairs go perfectly with the style!

And BTW, what about that wine rack on wheels?!? Did you make it, too? Love that! :) Would love to see a plan for that!

talvey50

Mon, 04/11/2016 - 12:48

Thanks! We found that wine rack at a store here in Phoenix. I thought about making one from scratch but I definitely was in over my head. We love it though

Wood X Coffee Table

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 01/22/2024 - 10:12

I am totally in love with this design!! I added my own twist by painting the bottom “Gravelstone” to match with my kitchen cabinets and a simple “dark walnut” matte shine on the table top (1 coat). Once painted I sanded the edges and some of the legs to resemble antique wood. Looks fabulous!!

Michelle H

Easy Built in Triple Bunk Bed Plans

The Basic Process - Triple Bunk Bed Plans

More info on these Triple Bunk Bed Plans on my blog: http://myhomedonemyway.blogspot.com/2013/03/triple-bunk-bed-finished.ht…)

1. Build the Bed Frames: (I will explain the process for one bed...do it three times if you want three beds)

2. Add Side Supports: ( Also do this step three times for three beds. We did it later but would be easier to do now)

3. Add Roll Guard: (do twice...once for each top bunk. We did this later but can be done now)

4. Build Ladder:

5. Paint desired color (you don't have to paint the sides that will be screwed into the wall).

6. Install into the wall in desired bedroom

7. Add Supports (do three times for three beds)

8. Add Plywood (do three times for three beds) 9. Finish

 

Estimated Cost
$150
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
White Paint
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project

Comments

Modern Oversized Outdoor Chair

Submitted by zpbrown84 on Tue, 06/02/2020 - 10:41

I made one of these chairs the the back hit me to low and was uncomfortable so this one I the legs 5 1/2” longer. This is my second project and took half a day but I am very happy with the outcome and started a second chair to match.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$50
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
Valspar Transparent Redwood and I used a 1/4 Roman Ogee router bit on the arms and legs
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

King Farmhouse Bed

Submitted by jhavinga on Thu, 05/22/2014 - 16:31

Second project ive completed from Ana White, and I am very happy with how this bed turned out! The only thing I would fix would be the finish, I wanted it a bit whiter. not so creamy. Otherwise very quick and easy fun project to do. =)

Estimated Cost
$300
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
1 coat of a basic latex white paint.
Then I sanded down just so raised grains would become exposed.
1 coat of dark walnut stain (wipe on with cloth)
Done.
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project

Comments

jhavinga

Thu, 05/22/2014 - 16:34

Thank you for sharing all of these awesome projects. I was always hesitant when it came to wood, but now I cant seem to stop!

jhavinga

Wed, 06/11/2014 - 13:43

(You can do all this before or after your project is put together or not.)
Be sure to do a test piece before hand so you can see exactly what your getting :)

The first step I did once the head board and foot board were put together, was to sand any sharp edges or corners. I liked mine rounded and worn looking. I did not sand anything else.

Second step is to paint 1 even coat of a basic white latex paint.

Third step is to sand away some white paint. because we didnt sand it before hand the grains in the wood will be very bumpy. so the paint on the grains will sand off while the paint lower than the grain will remain. makes sense? hopefully i explained that right!

Fourth step is to now wipe on the stain of your choice. I went with Dark walnut. It stains the paint a bit bringing the white to a gray/brown tone. and stains the wood dark walnut so the grain patterns show up dark.

Let me know if you have any other questions and good luck!

jbogan15

Thu, 01/29/2015 - 07:49

What grit of sand paper did you use to sand off the white paint? and did you sand it by hand? Also, for the dark walnut stain, did you wipe off immediately or leave it on for a bit before wiping? Beautiful bed, I want to achieve this look!

In reply to by jbogan15

jhavinga

Fri, 02/06/2015 - 09:15

Hi jbogan15, thank you!
For sanding I used a palm sander with 120 grit to get the job done a bit quicker, than went over lightly with 220. When staining I actually just dipped a rag in the stain and would wipe the stain on. =)

Good luck!
Justin

kosborn

Fri, 01/27/2017 - 11:05

Love this look! Exactly what I am trying to achieve...A few questions about the side rails. How high did you connect them to the 4x4 posts and exactly how did you connect them? Did you use brackets or screw right into the posts? Thank You!

barkleyl

Thu, 09/05/2019 - 15:07

I have seen several beds from Anna White. I was wondering if the frame require a box spring mattress or not. If not, are the beds lower than what a traditional mattress and box springs are. Thanks ! 

Shoe cabinet!

Submitted by JMasters on Thu, 01/26/2017 - 13:43

Created my own version out this plan. 

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$80
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Outdoor patio sectional and patio coffee table

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Tue, 05/16/2017 - 13:08

Welcome to our labor of love. This is our first build and while my bf did most of the work, it was a great project for us as a couple. It was definitely work, but well worth it. We love the way it fits perfectly in our courtyard and people keep commenting on how high-end it looks. Thanks for the plan, Ana! The project took a little longer than it probably should, since it was the first project for us. You should account fort he time it will take to cut, sand and stain your pieces before assembly. There are times you will need to allow for the lumber to dry etc.

Finish Used
1-gal. #ST-129 Chocolate Semi-Transparent Waterproofing Stain and Sealer
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

I doubled the recipe and built a table that seats 12!

Submitted by JMRojas on Fri, 03/06/2015 - 14:07

I used the Farmhouse Table plans and just extended the measurements to build an extra-long outdoor table that seats 12.

 

Estimated Cost
$250
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Tea, vinegar, and steel wool
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

Corner Shelf for Nursery

Submitted by wojo1 on Thu, 05/16/2013 - 07:21

Super Easy.. I like it better without the doors. Recommend getting a KREG Jig. I have the Jr and it was perfect for this project.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$130
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Entry Shoe Bench

I've officially stopped stalking and started building! First project a modified spa bench. Still have to stain it, but it already makes the big pile of shoes by the door look neater! I'm a hands-on person and not afraid of power tools (got a band saw for my birthday!) but it's still a challenge building a piece of furniture. I've already learned lots of do's and don't do's for next time!
Thanx a bunch for your site, Ana! It definitely gets the mind plotting great projects to come!

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
~50$ (honestly, I can't remember!)
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
PolyShades Royal Mission, several coats... and a spray can of clear coat too.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Mission Style Bed

Submitted by pde00311 on Fri, 08/14/2015 - 11:34

We have a small extra bedroom in our basement for out-of-town guests that needed furniture. This plan was perfect. For the time being, Clarence the Dog will keep the bed warm.

Estimated Cost
$60.00
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
Behr Mermaid Treasure with Minwax Polycrylic
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

$20 DIY Cedar Planter

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Fri, 07/01/2022 - 06:09

This is the 1st planter I have ever made! Thanks Ana, plans were easy to follow! I shared with my brother, and he said "I'm impressed!", I said "Me too!"
It isn't perfect but I love it! Started 2 more, just 1 inch smaller on both sides. Thanks again, great project to help with fears and confidence!

Comments

Deer Proof Garden Enclosure

Submitted by verarj on Fri, 08/05/2022 - 17:18

We used the plans from the Garden Enclosure, but built the sides twice as high to make for less bending. The only problem was this made our wire come up higher so we had to adjust the door height. We haven't produced too much yet, but hoping next year brings a quicker yield. The plans were so helpful and easy to use for us novices. *Sorry I couldn't get the pictures to rotate.

Built from Plan(s)