Community Brag Posts

Planter Boxes

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 10/04/2021 - 12:53

I made the boxes from plans, but added bench and trellis from my own design.

Built from Plan(s)

Comments

Seasonal And Holiday

Sandbox with benches

Submitted by h.abbott on Tue, 04/10/2012 - 05:43

I knew I needed a sandbox for my toddler, and saw the original on pinterest. I was so happy when I came here looking for designs and saw that someone had created a plan for this. I think I'm more excited about it than my little guy is.

The plan was easy to follow, and it went together quickly. Thank you very much for these plans

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$50
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
Exterior paint in light blue.
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project

Comments

hippyengineer (not verified)

Tue, 10/16/2012 - 19:32

You rock Ana! Your plans are some of the best quick builds with lots of features. I built this sand box in two hours and my son is having the best time. This is a Texas winter replacement for the beach and the backyard pool.

edkeogh

Mon, 05/23/2016 - 19:44

So I just started making this box and it's truly an awesome design but I couldn't get 1x8 lumber instead I got 2x8... For the box base, will this make an difference in the mechanics of the seat and back opening..and the overall size of the box is 1.5" longer at 49" instead of the 47" the plans detail.. I was hoping that it won't but I think it might interfere with the 2x4 support the seat back..

I right in the middle of this project so I need to get on with it as it's nice tomorrow..

THANK YOU
ED

Two Story Rabbit Hutch

For my first woodworking project, I foolishly decided to build a rabbit hutch without plans for my daughters new Easter Bunny. So I literally scratched some ideas on my wood working bench and started going to work. I did some construction over a decade ago, but never attempted to build any furniture before, so I'm pretty happy with how this came out.

I spent a few days researching various rabbit cages and for our place we needed something that was ascetically pleasing and functional as it was going in our living room. I got some ideas from the web and decided the best thing for us would be to have an entry ramp, 2 sets of barn doors for each level (for easy cleaning) and an open roof. We went with linoleum floors since she's already litter trained. The floors could easily be modified to add 1/2" wire mesh if we decide to change things down the line. Also, we chose an espresso finish with silver hardware to accent the wire mesh

I pretty much crashed and burned on the staining as I've never done that before, but it ended up looking ok after all. I did a light sanding, but will probably invest in a planer and jointer to get my wood in better shape before assembling in the future. Also, I'll probably lightly dab some stain on ends of wood before final assembly as it made it difficulty trying to hide the white pine with the dark stain.

Other cages I saw ran around $200-$350.00 so i don't feel so bad about the cost. It's really the time that it took learning and making mistakes. I'm sure if I had plans I could of cut my time in 1/2.

Total Cost came out to around $150.00 but probably would of been cheaper if I had some plans to go by. I probably wasted a few 2x2s and accidentally mis-cut a scrap piece of 1/4"plywood which added another $16.00 to the bottom line.

Here's a breakdown of my total cost.

Hardware - $30.00
Includes 5 latches, 4 sets of hinges (8 total) and a 3' piano hinge

Stain - $8.00

Linoleum Tile @ ¢.69 sq ft - $16

Brushes, Stain Rags - $5.00

Screws - $6.00

Wire Mesh Roll $30.00
Needed 2 rolls at $15.00 each. I used 1" Wire Mesh measuring 2'x15'

Total Wood $50.00-$60
I used 2x3's for the legs - 2 @ 8' - $2.00 each ($4.00)
probably 15-20 2x2's - $1.52 each - can't remember how many I used to be honest ($30.00)
and a few 1x6's for the Doors - $2.00 each ($6.00)
Sheet of 1/4 plywood - $12.00

Estimated Cost
$150
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

ashinshaw

Thu, 05/03/2012 - 08:09

I also have been thinking with the idea of building a two story hutch for our rabbit. I love your ideas so now i have a new project to work on. Thanks for sharing!

Nicolene (not verified)

Mon, 10/08/2012 - 12:46

I LOVE your cage! We have 2 rabbits and 2 Guinea pigs which means we have 2 ugly cages in our living room. We are planning something similar, but a bit bigger (but lower if that makes sense). And we'll put a 3rd story on for our Guinea pigs. So we have everyone on the same patch of real estate so to speak. I was going to do 3 solid walls with wire "windows" too keep all the hay, poops and such contained. I am also going to put lockable wheels underneath, so I can move it to my office if I ever need to (parties and renovations).

Is there anything that you can now think of that you would like to change on yours? R my research purposes.. :) It looks awesome, I'm just picking your brain for "hindsight" tips.

Roll Away Workbench with Miter Saw Insert

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 04/11/2024 - 10:43

Modified these plans slightly for my needs. I kept the table saw open for easier dust collection and only had one side of shelving on the other bench to allow for storing larger items. I can’t get over how much storage in a small space you get with these and how multi functional they are.

DIY Modern Chicken Coop

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 05/20/2024 - 12:00

Almost 5 years after we moved into the country onto our Hamstead of 3 acres, I finally committed to building our chicken coop. Last year, my husband brought home a ton of lumber used for shipping. I started tearing it down and slowly, over the past few months, I built this perfect coop for our 6 little chicks. It required a ton of sketching and planning, adjustments, and do overs, but it has come together so well. Thanks and shout out to the plan from Ana White and the brag post by @blackgirlbythesea

Seasonal And Holiday

Dining chairs for X based pedestal table

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 03/06/2023 - 10:15

I made the 4 chairs to complete the dining suite. The table was made from the X based pedestal table plan.

The timber was all cut from 200mm x 50mm pine sleepers and finished with Cabots clear finish.

Comments

X Console Table

Submitted by MichelleC on Thu, 10/04/2012 - 13:53

I built this a couple feet shorter than in the plans because it is for my neighbor's fish tank! It was fun to build and I'm in love with the finished product. She's going to paint or stain it herself. The pics were taken in my messy, projects-everywhere carport right before the neighbor hauled it off! Her son-in-law wants one now, and I will be building one for MYSELF right away as well! Thank you Ana!!!

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
75
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

Playhouse loft bed with stairs and slide

Submitted by alminter on Wed, 07/08/2015 - 21:29

This is by far the biggest project I've completed yet. It actually surprised me how easy it was to complete. It did take me about 4 days to build the project and an additional week to sand and paint the project.

I followed the playhouse loft plans and the storage stairs plans, adjusting only the back to allow for the additional length of the slide. I didn't add the windows to the sides (I didn't see any point in having them there). I also used the castle loft plans for the slide. When I first started this project I was planning on making the slide completely separate. I changed my mind mid project after I had the side wall cut to length at Lowe's, so I just added that small piece to the left of the slide to make up for the gap. I also made this project in 4 separate pieces (stairs, slide, front wall, back) so I could put it together in her room in one evening and not have to kick her out. Once we moved it to her room all I had to do was screw the four corners in and attach the back wall and bed slats.

I definitely recommend not using particle board. I had no idea what the difference was between particle board, mdf and plywood when I started this project. Particle board was less then half the cost of plywood, but looking back I would pay the extra for the plywood. I don't feel like the screws hold well in the particle board and it also chipped on the bottom some. I actually had a chunk come off in the corner where I must of screwed to closely to the edge. I'm sure this is basic knowledge for most, but for those newbies (like me) just a little tip.

I had a lot of fun building this bed (not so much sanding and painting) and learned a lot. Now off to browse for my next project :)

Estimated Cost
400-500
Estimated Time Investment
Week Long Project (20 Hours or More)
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

Tiled raised dog feeder!

Submitted by DogDoc25 on Tue, 08/27/2013 - 18:28

The design for this feeder came from Ana's raised feeder as well and the people who have made these feeders with tile. I had a lot of fun making this and I love how it turned out! I can see how they would be addicting to make. I constructed the wooden base (I just eyeballed how long to make it and how tall to make the legs based on the size of my bowls). I nailed hardibacker to the wooden top and applied the tile with thin set and mortar. This feeder is for my bigger dog, so disregard my small dogs checking it out:) The grout was a dark tan color before it dried, and I really like the color it ended up being. I bought the tile and grout from the habitat from humanity store, which had a big selection of miscellaneous tiles for basically free! Fun project!

Estimated Cost
about $45 (had to buy tile supplies that I didn't already have) but for just materials (wood, tile, thin set, wood trim, and mortar) around $30
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
Put down wood conditioner and then 2 coats of minwax dark walnut (left on for about 10 minutes in between coats), then applied 2 coats of polycrylic
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Modified Ultimate Roll Away Workbench with Miter Saw Stand

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Thu, 02/27/2020 - 14:28

I loved the idea of roll away cabinets that could double as more tabletops for larger projects but then be able to hide them and save space. I usually have 2 cars parked in the garage and space us at a premium. Instead of a mitersaw I placed my scrollsaw in the middle added peg board, lights, and a shelf. Thanks for the plans and the idea.

Estimated Cost
$325.00
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Wood working workbenches.
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

Fireplace Mantle with Milled Wood

Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on Mon, 12/04/2023 - 11:16

Your plans were so helpful.  I used rough cut lumber from a white pine we harvested and milled ourselves, so had to do a bit of figuring, and also increased the height to 48”. I just love it and your plans made it so much easier.  

love.amandamarie on Instagram

 

Seasonal And Holiday

Computer Desk

Submitted by mjgreene79 on Mon, 12/26/2016 - 10:29

I made this computer desk for my college age daughter out of a 150 year old door that we got from her grandfather's homestead.  I think it turned out fantastic.  I need to add a glass top to complete.

Estimated Cost
$50
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
painted legs and base but left the door the original.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Recycle/garbage center

Submitted by YeenYus on Wed, 07/24/2013 - 08:50

We just moved in to a newly built house, so it was important for everything to have a place. I don't like the garbage can to be under the sink, and my wife doesn't like the can just out on the floor...too many missed hook shots with the coffee filters I guess! This cabinet solves many kitchen problems all at once. An attractive cabinet that hides garbage and recycle, yet is easy to get in and out of. The railroad spike handles are something we sell on Etsy, as well as knobs and shelves. The shop name is YeenYus.

Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Stain, paint
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate

Comments

Ecspronk

Wed, 07/24/2013 - 20:44

I was wondering if you had a price estimate on how much the supplies cost you along with some measurements. I am looking to build a double one like this. More details would be awesome. Thank you

In reply to by Ecspronk

YeenYus

Wed, 07/24/2013 - 21:15

Yeah, I kind of built this on the run with nothing but the space it had to fit into. But it is 34" wide 32" deep and 24" high. I needed it to fit under the window and used the Home Depot garbage bins as the starting point.

I build a lot of stuff...and this was a tough one. The frame is 2x4's with pine facing and bead board. 4 hinges, stain and paint...less than $100.

I'd love to work with you on this if you want. The hard part was engineering the bins falling forward equally and not binding up. The back of the bin actually hits the counter top perfectly now. But you can see that I had to put an extra 1" under the top for it to hit something.

It' gonna take some work but this thing looks and works so smoothly. You can do it...I can help!

momaimp

Thu, 05/08/2014 - 06:07

Would you be able to post a sketch of this project? I assume there are three boxes - the main cabinet and the two tilt-out boxes, but I would appreciate seeing a breakdown of the parts. Thanks!

momaimp

Thu, 05/08/2014 - 06:07

Would you be able to post a sketch of this project? I assume there are three boxes - the main cabinet and the two tilt-out boxes, but I would appreciate seeing a breakdown of the parts. Thanks!

Jsanderson

Wed, 09/23/2015 - 06:32

Is there a way I can get plans for this? I tried to sign up on site but can't locate

Accent photo gallery wall

When I first saw Ana's $10 ledges - I knew I wanted to do them, with a twist. I have this random nook in my house - and I knew they would be perfect. I wanted a feature wall there. And a feature it is.

I posted more pictures and how I framed everything out on my blog.

Thank you Ana for your continued inspiration! I wouldn't have been able to do any of it without you!

Estimated Cost
Ledges $20, full wall $160
Estimated Time Investment
Afternoon Project (3-6 Hours)
Finish Used
Prime and white gloss paint
Recommended Skill Level
Starter Project

Comments

Guest (not verified)

Tue, 03/06/2012 - 11:55

I love this! I love the area of wallpaper framed out. Can you tell me how you did that? Did you attach the wallpaper to the wall? Or did you attach to plywood or something and then attach to the wall? I have a perfect spot in my hallway to do something cute like this! LOVE!

Erica c (not verified)

Tue, 04/17/2012 - 10:28

This is absolutely gorgeous!! I would love to something just like this...so creative! By any chance, can you tell me what wallpaper you used??

mycreativeescapes

Sat, 04/21/2012 - 05:44

I'll look to see if I can find the name and brand of wallpaper. We actually wallpapered the wall. It was super easy the whole thing. We lined out where it would be centered. Then put up I think 4 sections. When it was done it was super easy We put a decorative block in one corner - cut the next molding piece to line up with the next corner, and continued all 4 sides. No mitering cuts - super easy!

Erica c (not verified)

Sun, 04/22/2012 - 19:24

Wow! Thank you so much! I cannot wait to start! I really appreciate you trying to find the wallpaper pattern. It just so happens i have the same color carpeting, banister and paint already in my upstairs hall, so as soon as i saw your picture i knew it could work. Hopefully you will be able to find it..if not, i can't thank you enough for your detailed instructions. That will really help being i am not that handy! Hope to hear back from you.
Thanks again,
Erica

Erica c (not verified)

Thu, 06/07/2012 - 16:17

I am so sorry if I'm being a pain. Just wanted to see if you were able to find the wallpaper pattern/color? I have not had much luck looking for a wallpaper i like as much as yours.
Thank you again!
Erica

Recycled Pallet Factory Cart Coffee Table

My first build! I tore apart two old pallets to get the surface boards for the table. The skirting is 1 x 6's from the hardware store. I need larger casters but am saving up for the real vintage ones.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
Minwax Red Mahogany with 3 coats of Minwax fast-dry poly.
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner

Comments

jloftus18

Sun, 06/26/2011 - 19:36

I just picked up a pallet off the side of the road and was wondering what to do with it...Now I know! Thanks =)

Amazonqt20 (not verified)

Tue, 06/28/2011 - 02:26

You need to post what you come up with. Plus how did you get you photo on my comment posts?

Tony (not verified)

Tue, 08/07/2012 - 00:05

My daughter cleaned her room so instead of renting a dumpster I hauled it to the dump i mean"land fill". Anyway instead of coming back the normal route they detoured us around the dump and I found the mother load of pallets. You could ask and they will be free if your "land fill" is like mine...

Amazonqt20 (not verified)

Tue, 06/28/2011 - 01:32

I worked at a candy factory that received several pallets all day long and I loved the ones that had writing on them, like Ghirardelli (a chocolate company), Blommer (chocolate manufacturer) and a few others! I've picked up a few and have made picture frames and shelving from some.

Vendelcrow

Sun, 10/30/2011 - 04:25

Very nice & the right look. Planned to make something similar, so thanks for the inspiration.

KristenE (not verified)

Tue, 11/01/2011 - 10:24

I took some pallets from the pumpkin patch last week, with the dream of making something similar!! I want mine a little taller so I am going to attempt a shelf or something, I have had my casters for weeks and was psyched to find the free pallets! Great Job!

KristenE (not verified)

Tue, 11/01/2011 - 10:24

I took some pallets from the pumpkin patch last week, with the dream of making something similar!! I want mine a little taller so I am going to attempt a shelf or something, I have had my casters for weeks and was psyched to find the free pallets! Great Job!

Queenie (not verified)

Thu, 04/05/2012 - 06:49

Love your site and the fact that you share so much info for Diy's. Where is the best place to get the caster wheels? Vintage are sooo expensive so I got to believe that they are out there new with the idea in mind to antique them..
Thanks for all that you posted and shared..

In reply to by Queenie (not verified)

claydowling

Sun, 04/15/2012 - 12:03

The two best sources I've found for cart wheels are Menards and Harbor Freight. I think you can order them from Rockler or Lee Valley too, but I know that the two physical stores have a good selection and the prices are reasonable.

angelina (not verified)

Mon, 04/23/2012 - 13:38

I love it! I've been searching for one to buy but might try to make my own now I've seen yours....and definitely more satisfying when you've build something yourself from scratch. Fab job.

Reseller Hosti… (not verified)

Fri, 05/25/2012 - 23:21

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jyn (not verified)

Fri, 08/31/2012 - 12:15

I want something like this only I might make it taller. Also you can search Goodwill for antiquish castor wheels! Good job!