Frequently Asked Questions
Wood Questions
What kind of wood should I use?
Most of our plans use standard construction lumber like pine or fir. It's affordable, easy to work with, and easy to find. It's also rapidly renewing and biodegradable, so a great eco friendly choice!
Can I use hardwoods instead?
Yes—just keep in mind they're heavier, cost more, and can be tougher on tools and harder to join together and finish. I recommend not tackling a hardwood project until after you have built several softwood projects.
What if my boards are warped?
Choose the straightest boards at the store. You can often work around slight warps by cutting them into shorter pieces.
What wood should I use for outdoor furniture?
Use red-toned or pressure-treated 2x lumber for framing, and cedar or cedar fence pickets for the decking. Outdoor furniture should be built like a deck—your local home center can help recommend the right wood for your climate.
Will my wood move or warp after I build?
Potentially, especially in humid climates. Let your wood acclimate indoors before building. Once acclimated and kept in a stable environment, movement should be minimal. Remember, most houses are built using framing lumber - it's all about keeping moisture down indoors.
Cutting Questions
Do I need a miter saw?
A miter saw is great, creating fast, safe, and precise cuts, even for beginners. But most plans can be built with a circular saw and a straight edge. If using a circular saw to cut, take time to practice, and get good at making cuts, before cutting your project boards.
How do I get clean cuts with a circular saw?
Clamp your board, measure twice, cut slow, and use a sharp blade. This takes practice, so spend some time making cuts. I go through becoming proficient at freehand cutting in my course, it is worth taking if you want to master this skill.
Will the store cut my wood?
Yes—most stores will do rough cuts to help you transport your materials home. But from store to store, the quality of cuts could greatly vary.
Joinery Questions
What screws should I use?
We recommend star-head self tapping screws for framing, most common sizes are 2-1/2", 1-3/4". Pre-drill if close to the edge or you find your wood is splitting.
Do I have to use pocket holes?
Pocket holes are the cheapest, easiest and fastest way to do some joints - like edge to edge or a hidden fastener joint. There are other methods, but these can be time consuming and expensive. We recommend using pocket holes as indicated in plans for best results.
How do I keep things square?
Use a speed square and measure diagonals after each step. Always clamp joints before screwing to keep them tight and flush.
Finishing Questions
Stain or paint before or after building?
A quick sand before and a full finish after gives the best results. Pre-finish if you're doing two-tone or detailed finishes.
What type of finish?
Use oil-based or water-based stain. For paint, cabinet-grade latex or enamel works great. High use surfaces on indoor projects should get a coat of polyurethane, I recommend a Helsman or Spar or other flexible poly that won't crack or peel with wood movement. For exterior projects, use a finish suitable for exterior fences.
How to get a smooth finish?
Start with a well sanded project. Sand between coats (220 grit), wipe clean, and apply light coats with a foam brush or roller.
Plan Questions
Can I change the size?
Many people do, and that's the great thing about building your own furniture! But do keep in mind going bigger might mean more supports are required, and often plans are optimized for minimal material waste.
Are these beginner-friendly?
Yes—plans are written with simple tools and clear steps in mind, with every effort to make plans as simple as possible.
Can I sell what I build?
Absolutely! Just don’t resell or repost the plans themselves.
General Questions
What tools do I really need?
A drill, circular saw, tape measure, square, and a few clamps will get you through most projects.
Do I need a workshop?
Nope! A driveway or small patio is plenty to get started, just make sure you have a level place to work. If you find you are building several projects a year, creating a small workbench is a great way to store tools and have a dedicated workspace.
What if I mess up?
Wood filler, sanding, or flipping boards goes a long way. Mistakes are part of the process!
What can I do to make my projects look more professional?
Start with straight boards, make accurate cuts, clamp all joints, and line up everything neatly. Sand thoroughly, use a neutral finish, and apply it in light coats for a clean look.
I've never built anything before. Where should I start?
Start with a few smaller softwood projects to get hands-on experience. Or if you're tackling a big project, buy a little extra lumber and practice your cuts and joints first. If possible, work with someone who has a bit of experience.
Care & Maintenance
How long will my furniture last?
With good joinery and regular care, your DIY furniture can last for decades. I have pieces in my own home that are over 20 years old and still going strong! One of the best parts about DIY furniture is that it’s easy to repaint, refinish, or repair—so your projects can grow and adapt with you.
How should I care for outdoor furniture?
Lightly pressure wash or hose it down once or twice a year. Tighten screws and reapply finish as needed to protect it—just like a deck or fence. A little upkeep goes a long way in extending the life of your furniture.
How about indoor furniture?
Regularly dust or wipe with a damp cloth. If it starts to look worn, a light sanding and touch-up paint or stain can refresh it in no time. DIY pieces are meant to be durable and fixable—so don’t be afraid to give them some love now and then.
Want to Build with Confidence?
Check out my ebook: 12 Skills to Build Your Own Furniture
It walks you through the core skills every builder needs—measuring, cutting, joinery, and finishing—so you can build beautiful furniture that lasts.
Still Have Questions?
Email us anytime at [email protected] and we’ll be happy to help!
Comments
Blndee217
Fri, 10/23/2020 - 09:24
6' Version of the Console
I wanted to view the plans for the 6' version as indicated in the post; however, when I click the link it gives a 404 error that the page isn't available. I realize to reduce the size, I should reduce the measurements, but I am new to woodworking and want to have plans. Can you point me in the direction of the 6' plans? Thank you!!
In reply to 6' Version of the Console by Blndee217
Ana White
Fri, 10/30/2020 - 12:26
We apologize for the trouble…
We apologize for the trouble, here is the 6' plans in PDF version with the configuration settings https://ana-white.com/sites/default/files/6%E2%80%99%20Barn%20Door%20Co…
cwatson
Sun, 10/25/2020 - 16:42
404 Error on 6' Plans
Hi Ana, just bought your book and I'm really excited to get started. Brand new to any type of woodworking. My wife and I just purchased our first house and we are so excited to fill it with your inspired designs. I was looking for the 6' version of this console and got the same 404 page not found error. Also, do you have any other books that I can check out and purchase? Thank you so much!
In reply to 404 Error on 6' Plans by cwatson
Ana White
Fri, 10/30/2020 - 12:25
Thank you so much for buying…
Thank you so much for buying the book!
I'm so sorry for the error with the 6' plan. We are having some backend website issues.
Here is the full 6' plans with the configuration - you can order the carcass through the configuration until we resolve the website issues? https://ana-white.com/sites/default/files/6%E2%80%99%20Barn%20Door%20Co…
jmartinezorlando73
Mon, 11/02/2020 - 09:19
Thank You, Thank You!!!
I just created this masterpiece and I cant thank you enough for the plans. I am VERY new to woodworking but your plans and site have made it easier for me to understand. I am waiting on my hardware, but I will brag about it this week when it comes in and I can install the doors. I did add 1/4 inch bead board on the entire back and gut out 2" holes with grommets to allow for wires to come through and plug stuff in.
In reply to Thank You, Thank You!!! by jmartinezorlando73
jmartinezorlando73
Mon, 11/09/2020 - 09:18
There is an upgrade that I…
There is an upgrade that I put into the plan. The mini cabinet hardware screws that came with the door hardware were very long and actually went through the facing. I actually put in a 1x2 on the inside edge of the facing across the top using glue and brads. This allowed for the screws to grab better and not have the screws go through the 1x4h
djtech2k2
Sat, 01/02/2021 - 13:33
Differences Between This and the Grandy
I have been looking for a project to expand storage and counter space for the kitchen. I have been looking at this project as well as the Grandy. Other than dimensions and the material, is there any major difference? For example, is one a lot more sturdy than the other? I have not built anything this large that will hold this much stuff with pocket holes so I have been back and forth. I do see that the hardware for the Grandy seems to be harder to get too.
Jami Reyes
Thu, 01/21/2021 - 07:17
Barn Door Kit
There isn’t a clickable link to the exact mini barn door kit used. Can you please provide that?
Jeff Richoux
Mon, 08/02/2021 - 10:29
Need some help
Ana, can you recommend a site where I can buy the 8' barn door hardware kit? My wife found a new project on your site for me to do and the hardware kit is what I can't find.