Simple Step Stool Plans

Difficulty

Beginner

Build your own wood step stool with our free plans. Features angled legs for added durability and stability. Solid wood design is easy to stain or paint and will last and last (ours is still going half a decade later).

Build with just 1x10s and 1x3s for about $15. Step by step plans with diagrams, shopping and cut list from Ana White

I've been helping my sister turn her bathroom from boring beige into glamours guest worthy ... and it's almost done! I'll be sharing the finished product later this week!

You remember of course the mirrors that we DIYed for about $10 -

Yep, three mirrors for $10! It had such a huge impact on the bathroom!

Today's project for this bathroom isn't as glamourous but it's very economical and essential in this bathroom -

Where at least one of the main users of this bathroom needs the extra height boost.

Step Stool Plans

This step stool is an easy build if you can use a miter saw. After you get the cuts done, it's seriously like five minutes to complete this project.

Here's a quick video showing the steps

The plans follow. Please share a brag post when you are done!

Dimensions

Dimensions shown above for step stool

Preparation

Shopping List

3 feet of 1x10 boards
3 feet of 1x3 boards
knobs or handles (optional)

Common Materials

1-1/4" Pocket Hole Screws

Elmer's Wood Glue

Elmer's Wood Filler

Cut List

2 - 1x10 @ 7-1/2" long, both ends beveled at 5 degrees off square, long point to short point, ends ARE parallel to each other
2 - 1x3 @ 13" long, both ends cut at 5 degree angles, shortest point measurement, ends NOT parallel
1 - 1x10 @ 16"

Tools

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

Take your two side pieces and taper the sides down at 5 degree angles, with the bottom being bigger than the top. Then notch out bottoms with jigsaw.

Step 2

Drill 3/4" pocket holes on ends of 1x3 boards. Also drill 3/4" pocket holes facing upward on aprons and insides of ends for attaching top in next step.

Step 3

Attach top with 1-1/4" pocket hole screws and glue.

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

Bench

Stools

Room

Bathroom

Kids and Toys

Comments

DIYer

Fri, 04/24/2015 - 16:33

Nice Project

Going to try it this weekend. Just what we needed.

carolyn-m-t

Tue, 07/21/2020 - 10:34

Kreg Nails not digging into the top of this step stool.

I'm feeling very frustrated right now. I've cut everything out and started screwing it together but the 3/4th inch Kreg screws I always use keep spinning and is not digging in deep enough.

mr5drums

Mon, 08/17/2020 - 16:40