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
Flippin1999@ya… (not verified)
Tue, 06/26/2012 - 10:29
Thank you for this, now I
Thank you for this, now I know what my afternoon project will be! Im lazier than you,I've been Using THUMB TACKS in the bathroom wall for my necklaces. Shudder.
Ana White
Tue, 06/26/2012 - 10:41
Hi Beth, so good to hear from
Hi Beth, so good to hear from you!!! I can't wait to see your version! It's going to be ah-mazing!
oldpaintdesign
Tue, 06/26/2012 - 11:43
Hinges
That tip about the block for installing the hinges? Aweeeeesome! Thanks for sharing!
brookifer86
Tue, 06/26/2012 - 15:11
Peg Board Backing
I love this project! And though the beadboard looks beautiful, if anyone has any scrap pegboard that may also be a good earring holding solution for the backing. You could even pop in a peg or two for rings. So much easy customization here! Can't wait to make one
spiceylg
Tue, 06/26/2012 - 17:02
Lazy?!!!
Ana with all that you do and give on a daily basis I can't even believe you even kid about being lazy! There's just no way you are lazy! Love the build. Genius once again.
KellyLynn (not verified)
Tue, 06/26/2012 - 19:05
This is beautiful, but I'm
This is beautiful, but I'm not much of a jewelry person, either. I'm thinking the addition of some shelves would turn this into an adorable spice cabinet.
Ana White
Tue, 06/26/2012 - 23:22
Or key rack!
Or key rack!
Milca (not verified)
Wed, 06/27/2012 - 05:04
Love the idea of turning this into a spice rack!
No jewellery here... except one necklace from when we visited Republic Dominican a while back. And then the kids got a hold of it... :S Oh well.
Love the idea of a spice rack with this rustic look. Definitely a project that I could handle very soon :) Thanks Ana for your plans and KellyLynn for the idea of a spicerack mod!
Jeanine (not verified)
Wed, 06/27/2012 - 08:08
Wall Jewelry Cabinet pdf issue
I want to make this! The .pdf link is broken, can you please repost!? :-)
Gregg (not verified)
Wed, 06/27/2012 - 09:08
What finish did you use?
This looks great Ana. I love your site by the way. What finish did you use to get the grey look?
Tenney (not verified)
Wed, 06/27/2012 - 18:57
plastic canvas scraps help
For earrings with posts, I have used scraps of plastic needlepoint canvas to keep all the fronts and backs together. You could just nail the scrap to one of the crossbars so it would be easy to pull the earring and back thingy apart. The long hooks for the dangling earrings can hang on the bottom row of the canvas - I'm sure there are actual names for all these jewelry parts, but I'm not much of a girly-girl and don't know them!
Christy Panzarella (not verified)
Thu, 06/28/2012 - 17:37
A latch would make it toddler
A latch would make it toddler proof!!
Jennifer Leigh (not verified)
Mon, 07/02/2012 - 15:56
Beautiful Project
You are so talented! Organizing jewelry has always been a problem for me. I've tried everything from the hanging organizer in the closet to baskets. This is such a rustic yet beautiful way to display jewelry while keeping off the dresser or closet floor!
Evelyn Talitha… (not verified)
Sun, 07/08/2012 - 07:50
hand cut nails
This is cute when i make key boards or Jewelry boards I use tiny old handcut nails . My son pulled them out of a bathroom he was remodeling, from the rotten floor in a 200 year old house
Amanda Morgan (not verified)
Mon, 07/23/2012 - 18:24
Hanging
I love this cabinet and plan on making one this week, but I'm not sure how I should hang it. Do you suggest screwing two screws through the top support right into studs?
Linda Johnson (not verified)
Thu, 07/26/2012 - 11:41
An outdoor jewelry cabinet?
An outdoor jewelry cabinet? Wow, you really ARE bragging!
It would work just as well inside, I guess (;) )
Jimmy Labis (not verified)
Sat, 08/25/2012 - 07:24
nice job!!!
I saw this plan and thought it was a great relatively fast project.... with a 2 year old running around I need to make the most of my time in the shop... I made one for my sister using wood I salvaged from a barn built in the 1800's... it looks totally awesome...thank you for sharing the plans!!
Billig GHD Rettetang (not verified)
Mon, 09/10/2012 - 07:10
Kjøp GHD Rettetang til å velge en vanlig nettside
I saw this plan and thought it was a great relatively fast project.... with a 2 year old running around I need to make the most of my time in the shop
iluvmy0341
Mon, 10/15/2012 - 20:55
Next deployment project!
After the "X Console Table" I'm making this! I need to get my cheap jewelry out of the "junk box" and actually start wearing it again!
Shane Ripley (not verified)
Mon, 10/29/2012 - 17:28
A few vaiations.
I followed the steps almost to a "T".
For step 5: I glued the ends of the top 1x2 of the door, attached both 1x2 sides and clamped them tight. Once I ensured that it was level, I used a right angle bracket and screwed that in. Then I let the glue dry and off I went. I did this becuase the 1x2 I bought had too much grain and when I screwed the pocket hole screw in, I split the wood.
Another thing is my wife has a lot of home made earrings. I used the screen from a screen door for this door. That means there are a lot more holes to hang even more.
The next time I make this I have a few variations I want to do. I want to turn the 1x2 90 degrees and make them into shelves for shot glasses. then add a glass to the door.
Another tip: ensure you 1/4" backing lays flat before you attach it. If you don't, it won't sit flat on the wall.
lbadger
Thu, 11/01/2012 - 07:57
Just finished!
Nailed the hangers on this morning! This was a really fun project. I made it for an auction item for my daughters school fundraiser. Thanks again Ana for another awesome plan!
Brag post:
http://ana-white.com/2012/11/jewelry-wall-cabinet
Dave Lawson (not verified)
Fri, 11/02/2012 - 03:25
To keep our expensive
To keep our expensive commodities we have been simply referred boxes or lockers but here we can witness an innovative and unique piece of smart idea of jewellery cabinet.
A perfect place to keep our jewelry safe, it provides the choices to hang on our favorite places either in bedroom or in drawing room.
We are really blessed with such an awesome trick for preparing these kinds of jewelry cabinets through the help of the above instructions and steps.
http://sharinginnovation.blogspot.in/2012/10/tips-to-save-money-when-bu…
lawsondave88
Fri, 11/02/2012 - 03:36
To keep our expensive
To keep our expensive commodities we have been simply referred boxes or lockers but here we can witness an innovative and unique piece of smart idea of jewellery cabinet.
A perfect place to keep our jewelry safe, it provides the choices to hang on our favorite places either in bedroom or in drawing room.
We are really blessed with such an awesome trick for preparing these kinds of jewelry cabinets through the help of the above instructions and steps.
http://sharinginnovation.blogspot.in/2012/10/tips-to-save-money-when-bu…
nicholaix
Fri, 12/06/2013 - 11:42
Yay!
Seriously, I was about to fork over $200 for one of these when it occurred to me to check your website for plans. easy to customize plan too for those of use with larger jewelry storage needs.( wait til the kids get older and you need a place for those pipe cleaner bracelets and macaroni necklaces!)