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Chick Brooding Cabinet

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Difficulty
Intermediate
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Build a cabinet for brooding chicks! Use as a pet cage for birds and other animals! Free plans!

The other day we stopped by here

And brought home four new members of to the family.

Their names are Sunny, Easy, Scramble and French Toast.

Grace's favorite is Sunny.  She's very sweet.

After a few days in a plastic tote, we decided it was time to build a brooding box.  With temperatures still falling well below freezing at night up here in Alaska, it's too early to build a chicken coop.  And let's not forget about the snow and frozen ground.  That will have to wait a month or two.

I had originally set out to build a brooding box like this one, but after a few days of cleaning up poo, I decided I wanted a open bottom with a tray underneath for easy cleaning.

And then one "wish list" item led to another, and before you know it, this is what we were building.

Because why not build a cabinet with an easy clean out tray, doors so the little ones can peek in and check on the chicks, and ample storage for keeping things like feed, newspaper, water, books and other chick nursery items on hand?

And if I'm using up a sheet of plywood either way, why not make something pretty?  Something I could maybe use for another use?

So what started out as an aversion to cleaning poo

Turned into this.

And of course, we even installed a light inside to keep them warm.

They are, after all, our newest members of the family.

We kept the doors low so Grace could see the chicks and help with cleanout.  But I kindof wished we'd down the doors higher and storage underneath.  That way the birds are at eye sight, with storage down below.  This would work great for other types of birds too.

But the good news is you can do whatever you want to suit your needs.  That's the great thing about DIY!

Dimensions
Dimensions are shown above. Brooding space is approximately 4 1/2 square feet.

Preparation

Shopping List

1 - sheet 3/4" plywood, ripped into 3 strips 15 1/2" wide by 8 feet long (referred to as 1x16 in this plan)
2 - 1x2 @ 8 feet long
2 - 1x3 @ 8 feet long
8 - 2x2 @ 8 feet long
1 - 1x8 @ 3 feet long

36" wide hardware cloth or chicken wire - I used about 4 feet total
3 sets of hinges
1/2" staples
knobs, handles and latches

Common Materials
1 1/4 inch finish nails
1-1/4" Pocket Hole Screws
2-1/2" Pocket Hole Screws
Elmer's Wood Glue
Elmer's Wood Filler
Cut List

2 - 1x16 @ 60" (sides)
4 - 1x2 @ 15 1/2" (side trim)
4 - 2x2 @ 66" (legs)
8 - 2x2 @ 36" (front/back trim)
3 (or more) 1x2 @ 15 1/2" (for supporting grated bottom)
3 - 1x16 @ 36" (shelves) - extra is optional shelf not shown
1 - 1x16 @ 39" (top)
2 - 1x2 @ 39" (top)
1/4" plywood or other materials 38 1/2" x 60" (back)
1 - 1x8 @ 35 3/4" (bottom door tilts down)

DOORS
4 - 1x3 @ 24 3/4"
4 - 1x3 @ 12 3/4"
Hardware cloth or chicken wire stapled to back

Tools
Tape Measure
Speed Square
Pencil
Safety Glasses
Hearing Protection
Kreg Jig
Drill
Circular Saw
Jigsaw
Power Sander
Staple Gun
Level
General Instructions

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

Start with the sides. Drill 3/4" PHs along sides and top edge. Attach side trim.

Step 2

Attach legs with 1 1/4" PH screws through predrilled holes.

Step 3

Now join the two sides to start making the box.

Step 4

This is for the mesh bottom. If you mesh needs more support, add more boards to support.

Step 5

Step 6

Followed by upper shelf.

Step 7

And the top.

Step 8

Followed by adding the back.

Step 9

Build doors to fit openings. I stapled hardware cloth to back. Staple hardware cloth to bottom of middle shelf as well.

Finishing Instructions
Preparation Instructions
Fill all holes with wood filler and let dry. Apply additional coats of wood filler as needed. When wood filler is completely dry, sand the project in the direction of the wood grain with 120 grit sandpaper. Vacuum sanded project to remove sanding residue. Remove all sanding residue on work surfaces as well. Wipe project clean with damp cloth.

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.
Project Type
Cabinet Plans
Outdoor Projects
Other Projects
Room
Outdoor
Style
Farmhouse Furniture

Comments

Guest (not verified)

Wed, 04/04/2012 - 10:28

This looks so adorable! I can't wait to see plans for a chicken coop.

Chair

Wed, 04/04/2012 - 10:30

I love it! There's a lot of news going around these days (particularly here in Canada) about urban hens and much of the nay-saying is based on fear of unattractive set-ups. Your plans certain kick that line of thought in the butt :)

I am going to be getting my own coop and flock this summer... I'm eagerly anticipating your plans for a coop (nudge nudge). I've been reading quite a bit about design and function but I'm still a bit of a building noob so I know whatever you come up with will not only be attractive and functional but also well-suited to a harsh climate.

Cluck on!

Sunny (not verified)

Wed, 04/04/2012 - 11:19

Darin,

I bet she has seen your other comments on previous threads, so repeating yourself is probably unnecessary. She has stated many, many times that this website is a DIY in itself, and she is not a web design expert. Other posters have replied to you that you can "print preview" from another screen then save as a PDF. Has that suggestion worked for you?

I, for one, have been incredibly blessed by you, Miss Ana White, and all you have done to inspire me to a new craft to not only better my family but to channel creative energy. I appreciate all you have done to offer an incredible resource for FREE, and it is my pleasure to return to you the gift of my patience through your growing pains. Thank you for taking all suggestions into account and working on them as you have time.

(For the record, I would rather see posts about building cool stuff than perfect PDF downloads.)

Sunny

terrillr (not verified)

Wed, 04/04/2012 - 17:49

Download and install the Cute PDF Writer program and the Ghostscript Converter to your computer, and you change the document into a pdf and save to your computer. The Cute pdf writer shows up in your printer list. When you want to convert to pdf, click on print / change printer to Cute PDF Writer / Change properties if needed. Before long, a "save as" box appears and you name/save. EASY! I've used this program for years.

here's a "How to" with links to the writer & converter under Resources. http://www.ehow.com/how_5089608_use-cutepdf-writer.html

Julie Novak (not verified)

Wed, 04/04/2012 - 10:58

So will we be seeing plans soon for a chicken coop ? Maybe a chicken tractor ? I would definitely be interested. We love your website and have built 2 farmer beds. Today got the wood for a king size farmer bed to work on this weekend.

Laura Haggarty (not verified)

Wed, 04/04/2012 - 11:24

This is quite lovely!

May I make a few suggestions though? Be aware, that keeping chicks inside your home will soon fill your house with dust. As chicks grow, they shed dander at a ferocious rate, and dust gets everywhere. This can be very allergy provoking, and annoying to deal with.

As well, please be aware that smaller chicks (like bantam breeds) can actually get themselves stuck in the wire mesh (by their hocks.) For the first week or so, it's best to put down paper towel (not newspaper, it's too slick) on top of the wire until they get large enough to avoid getting stuck.

Great post though, love the design! And thanks for the step by step.

David (not verified)

Wed, 04/04/2012 - 11:41

Did you use Google Sketchup to build the 3D model you used for the diagrams? very nicely done.

Guest (not verified)

Wed, 04/04/2012 - 11:57

Ana...AMAZING as always!!! What an Inspiration you are, thank you so much!
Jess

Kathy Webster-Link (not verified)

Wed, 04/04/2012 - 12:11

This is way better than the converted dog crate that I've been using as a brooder! It's been a mess, but I've loved it. Still I'd decided NOT to have them in the house again, but this design could change my mind! Really, really cute.
My go-to website for everything chicken related is backyardchickens.com! Just in case you wanted to know. ;)

mebohn

Wed, 04/04/2012 - 12:23

This is too cute! I want to build it just b/c it's fabulous, though - not to put chicks in. Is that crazy? I'd just like to have it in my dining room or somewhere sans chickens. :-)

cakelady

Wed, 04/04/2012 - 13:03

I got my first chicks this spring. I built my coop last week. Backyardchickens.com is the way to go to learn lots. They even have a bunch of alaska chicken keepers on there to help with the bitter cold issues. Who knew chickens were so hardy!!

I am cooking up an idea for a brooder that docks to a run for a chicken tractor when the chicks get bigger.

Kerry Andrus (not verified)

Wed, 04/04/2012 - 16:19

Can't wait to see your chicken coop!!! I realize that you have 4 chicks, but I really hope you'll show a design that could be expanded to holding a larger flock!

Robinwood

Wed, 04/04/2012 - 16:38

For those who are having trouble with PDF's - Just click on the printer friendly copy and then copy and paste to a Word document. I have tried to save as PDF using the print preview, but my printer options seem to be much more limited and I haven't been able to save as a PDF. However, the Word document still gives me what I need to build the project.

Johan (not verified)

Wed, 04/04/2012 - 22:49

Enjoy them, they grow big pretty quick.
A few weeks ago I hatched 6 eggs in a makeshift incubator (11-11-2011) and they are almost fully grown New Hampshire Chickens already, but still pets, wanting to climb onto your lap when you sit with them.

Rhoni T (not verified)

Thu, 04/05/2012 - 06:07

too cute, I'd like it without chicks, with shelves. It would make a nice cabinet for dishes or pantry cabinet.

My husband and I started building our chicken coop a few weeks ago (the hubs now refers to it as the "Chicken Mansion" ... Okay so WE got a bit carried away on the size). Only being able to work on it 3 days a week and building with no plans has been a test of "he said, she said", a few arguements later and I am happy to say it is finished! woo hoo Unfortunately we still have the run to building, hopefully that will go smoothly so we can official put are two girls in there for a few weeks until the baby chicks arrive the end of May.

some might say two hens that is all, I live in OK and last year we had a drout, 100+ temps for the better part of two months. I lost three of the best laying hens ever. They would get in the boxes to lay or brood and, well the heat was to much. so that is why the new coop that I can lock them out of when the it gets to hot and lock them in when it is too cold, with a heat lamp inside!!

Go online and look up Heather Bullard Chez Poulet, her coop is awesome, ours is built kinda like hers, but without plans and an added closet for garden stuff.

Mills Snell (not verified)

Thu, 04/05/2012 - 09:11

Just wondering what kind of creative ideas you have for the girls when they outgrow the brooder cabinet?

My wife and I have 3 hens in South Carolina, and we just moved and are about to build them a new and permanent home. We have been pleased with a coop and run in a single enclosure. We had them in 4x8ft, but will probably expand that since we want more!

pogonip (not verified)

Thu, 04/05/2012 - 21:23

Oh, how I remember our teeny chicks and the poop they generated! You are going to be totally spoiled by their fresh eggs. And probably will coddle your girls as much as we do when it gets cold!

Oh, and I love their names!

Elaine Belange… (not verified)

Mon, 05/14/2012 - 11:59

Hi, I love the brooder article and would like to talk to you about publishing it in our magazine in early 2013. Please contact me by email at [email protected] to discuss publishing arrangement. I work from home and can also be reached by phone at 715-965-5923 8-5 eastern time. Thanks in advance, Elaine Belanger, Editor, Backyard Poultry.

denogirl

Sat, 07/14/2012 - 23:04

I've been looking for something that I could use as an outdoor pool chemical storage, that could double as pool toy storage on the bottom with shelves, and doors on top (with a lock on them), and this seems really close to what I was looking for. Do you NEED the legs on the boom of this, or could you skip them? Because if toys rolled under this I'd never get them back :) And would you do anything special with this for an outdoor area where it's going to get wet, other than the paint type used?

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!