10 Easy Woodworking Projects for the Steve Ramsey Weekend Woodworker

Are you a woodworking enthusiast looking for some easy and exciting projects to tackle during your weekends? Look no further! In this article, we will be introducing 10 straightforward woodworking projects specifically designed for the Steve Ramsey Weekend Woodworker. Whether you are a beginner or a seasoned woodworker, these projects will provide you with the perfect opportunity to unleash your creativity and enhance your skills. So, grab your tools and get ready to embark on a journey of craftsmanship and satisfaction. The projects range from simple decorative items to functional furniture pieces, ensuring there is something for everyone. Let’s get started!

Blanket Ladder

Materials Needed

To create your own blanket ladder, you will need the following materials:

• 4 wooden dowels, 1 inch in diameter and 6 feet in length
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper
• Wood stain or paint of your choice
• Paintbrush

Tools Needed

Make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Measuring tape
• Saw
• Drill with a drill bit slightly larger than the dowels
• Clamps

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Measure and mark the desired height for your blanket ladder on each of the dowels. This will determine the length of the ladder as well as the spacing between each rung. The standard height for a blanket ladder is around 5 to 6 feet.
2. Use a saw to carefully cut the dowels at the marked measurements. You should end up with six equal-sized pieces, which will serve as the rungs of your ladder.
3. Next, sand the cut ends of the dowels to remove any rough edges and create a smooth finish.
4. Lay two of the dowels parallel to each other, spacing them apart according to your desired rung spacing. Apply a generous amount of wood glue to one end of each dowel.
5. Place one of the remaining dowels horizontally across the glued ends of the parallel dowels, making sure it aligns with them. Press firmly to secure the dowel in place.
6. Repeat this process with the remaining three dowels, placing them at equal intervals along the parallel dowels. Make sure all the dowels are aligned and level.
7. Use clamps to hold the ladder together while the wood glue dries. Follow the instructions on the wood glue bottle for the recommended drying time.
8. Once the wood glue has fully dried, you can choose to either stain or paint your blanket ladder. Apply the stain or paint evenly using a paintbrush, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
9. Allow the stain or paint to dry completely before using your blanket ladder.
10. Congratulations! You now have a beautiful and functional blanket ladder to display and organize your cozy blankets.

Floating Shelves

Materials Needed

To create your own floating shelves, gather the following materials:

• 1×4 inch wood board, cut to your desired shelf lengths
• Wall brackets or floating shelf hardware
• Screws
• Wall anchors (if necessary)
• Wood stain or paint of your choice
• Paintbrush

Tools Needed

Make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Measuring tape
• Saw
• Drill
• Screwdriver
• Level

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Start by measuring and marking the desired length for your floating shelves on the wood board. Cut the board into individual shelf pieces using a saw.
2. Sand the cut edges of the boards to create a smooth finish.
3. Determine the desired height and spacing for your shelves on the wall. Use a level to ensure accuracy. Mark the placement of the shelves with a pencil.
4. Install the wall brackets or floating shelf hardware according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure they are securely attached to the wall and level.
5. Attach the wood boards to the wall brackets or hardware using screws. Make sure to drive the screws into the studs or use wall anchors if necessary.
6. Once the shelves are securely attached to the wall, you can choose to stain or paint them. Apply the stain or paint evenly using a paintbrush, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Allow the stain or paint to dry completely before placing any items on the shelves.
8. Congratulations! You now have stylish and functional floating shelves to enhance the decor of any room in your home.

Wine Rack

Materials Needed

To create your own wine rack, gather the following materials:

• 1×6 inch wood board, cut to your desired rack length
• Wood dowels, ¾ inch in diameter and cut to your desired wine bottle spacing
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper
• Wood stain or paint of your choice
• Paintbrush

Tools Needed

Make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Measuring tape
• Saw
• Drill with a drill bit slightly larger than the dowels

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Measure and mark the desired length for your wine rack on the wood board. Cut the board using a saw, ensuring it is long enough to accommodate multiple wine bottles.
2. Sand the edges and surfaces of the wood board to create a smooth finish.
3. Measure and mark the placement of the wine bottle slots on the wood board. The spacing may vary depending on the size of your wine bottles, but a standard spacing is about 3.5 to 4 inches apart.
4. Use a drill with a drill bit slightly larger than the wood dowels to create holes at the marked spots on the wood board.
5. Apply a small amount of wood glue to the ends of the wood dowels and insert them into the drilled holes. Press firmly to ensure they are securely in place.
6. Allow the wood glue to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
7. Once the wood glue has dried, you can choose to stain or paint your wine rack. Apply the stain or paint evenly using a paintbrush, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Allow the stain or paint to dry completely before placing any wine bottles on the rack.
9. Congratulations! You now have a stylish and functional wine rack to store and display your favorite bottles of wine.

Wooden Planters

Materials Needed

To create your own wooden planters, gather the following materials:

• 1×6 or 1×8 inch wood boards, cut to your desired planter width and height
• Wood glue
• Wood screws
• Sandpaper
• Wood stain or paint of your choice
• Paintbrush

Tools Needed

Make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Measuring tape
• Saw
• Drill
• Screwdriver

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Measure and mark the desired dimensions for your wooden planters on the wood boards. Cut the boards using a saw, ensuring you have enough pieces to create the desired number of planters.
2. Sand the edges and surfaces of the wood boards to create a smooth finish.
3. Begin assembling the planters by applying wood glue to the edges of two adjacent boards. Press them together and hold firmly in place until the glue sets.
4. Use wood screws to secure the glued pieces together, placing them evenly along the corners of the planter. This will provide additional stability.
5. Repeat the gluing and screwing process to attach any additional boards and create the desired height for the planters.
6. Once the glue has dried and the planters are securely assembled, sand any rough edges or surfaces to create an even smoother finish.
7. Apply a wood stain or paint of your choice to enhance the appearance of the planters. Use a paintbrush to ensure even coverage, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Allow the stain or paint to dry completely before adding soil and plants to the planters.
9. Congratulations! You now have beautiful wooden planters to showcase your favorite plants and flowers.

Spice Rack

Materials Needed

To create your own spice rack, gather the following materials:

• 1×4 inch wood board, cut to your desired rack length
• Small glass jars with lids, enough to accommodate your spice collection
• Wood glue
• Screws
• Sandpaper
• Wood stain or paint of your choice
• Paintbrush

Tools Needed

Make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Measuring tape
• Saw
• Drill
• Screwdriver

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Measure and mark the desired length for your spice rack on the wood board. Cut the board using a saw, ensuring it is long enough to hold all your spice jars.
2. Sand the edges and surfaces of the wood board to create a smooth finish.
3. Determine the desired placement of the spice jars on the wood board, leaving enough space between each jar to easily access and remove them.
4. Apply a small amount of wood glue to the bottom of each spice jar and firmly press it onto the wood board in the desired location. Repeat this step for each spice jar.
5. Once the wood glue has fully dried, use screws to secure the wood board to the wall. Make sure to drive the screws into the studs for added stability.
6. Sand any rough edges or surfaces to create an even smoother finish.
7. Apply a wood stain or paint of your choice to enhance the appearance of the spice rack. Use a paintbrush to ensure even coverage, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Allow the stain or paint to dry completely before filling the spice jars and organizing them on the rack.
9. Congratulations! You now have a functional and organized spice rack to conveniently store and display your favorite spices.

Picture Frame

Materials Needed

To create your own picture frame, gather the following materials:

• 1×4 inch wood boards, cut to your desired frame dimensions
• Miter saw or miter box with a hand saw
• Wood glue
• Clamps
• Sandpaper
• Wood stain or paint of your choice
• Paintbrush
• Picture frame hardware (e.g., hanging hooks, wire)

Tools Needed

Make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Measuring tape
• Miter saw or miter box with a hand saw
• Sandpaper

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Measure and mark the desired dimensions for your picture frame on the wood boards. Cut the boards at 45-degree angles using a miter saw or miter box with a hand saw. Make sure the lengths of the horizontal and vertical boards match up correctly to create square or rectangular frames.
2. Apply a thin layer of wood glue to the mitered edges of the frame pieces and press them together, aligning the corners. Make sure to apply even pressure. Clamp the corners to secure the frame while the glue dries.
3. Allow the wood glue to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically takes a few hours or overnight.
4. Once the wood glue has dried, sand any rough edges or surfaces to create a smooth finish.
5. Apply a wood stain or paint of your choice to enhance the appearance of the picture frame. Use a paintbrush to ensure even coverage, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
6. Allow the stain or paint to dry completely before attaching picture frame hardware, such as hanging hooks or wire, to the back of the frame.
7. Congratulations! You now have a beautiful and personalized picture frame to display your favorite photographs or artwork.

Cutting Board

Materials Needed

To create your own cutting board, gather the following materials:

• Hardwood board, such as maple or walnut, cut to your desired cutting board size
• Sandpaper
• Food-safe wood finish or mineral oil

Tools Needed

Make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Measuring tape
• Saw
• Sanding block or electric sander

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Measure and mark the desired dimensions for your cutting board on the hardwood board. Cut the board to size using a saw, ensuring it is large enough to comfortably hold your food while cutting.
2. Sand the edges and surfaces of the cutting board to create a smooth finish. Use sandpaper or an electric sander for larger boards.
3. Ensure that all areas of the cutting board are free from any rough spots or splinters.
4. Apply a food-safe wood finish or mineral oil to seal and protect the cutting board. This will ensure that it remains safe for food preparation.
5. Use a clean cloth or brush to apply the wood finish evenly across the cutting board. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the recommended drying time.
6. Once the wood finish has dried, wipe off any excess residue with a clean cloth.
7. Repeat the application of the wood finish (if necessary) to achieve the desired level of protection and appearance.
8. Congratulations! You now have a high-quality cutting board that is not only functional but also adds a touch of elegance to your kitchen.

Magazine Rack

Materials Needed

To create your own magazine rack, gather the following materials:

• 1×6 inch wood boards, cut to your desired rack length and width
• Wood glue
• Wood screws
• Sandpaper
• Wood stain or paint of your choice
• Paintbrush

Tools Needed

Make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Measuring tape
• Saw
• Drill
• Screwdriver

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Measure and mark the desired dimensions for your magazine rack on the wood boards. Cut the boards using a saw, ensuring you have enough pieces to create the desired size of the rack.
2. Sand the edges and surfaces of the wood boards to create a smooth finish.
3. Start assembling the magazine rack by applying a small amount of wood glue to the edges of two adjacent boards. Press them together and hold firmly in place until the glue sets.
4. Use wood screws to secure the glued pieces together, placing them evenly along the corners of the rack. This will provide additional stability.
5. Repeat the gluing and screwing process to attach any additional boards and complete the magazine rack structure.
6. Once the glue has dried and the rack is securely assembled, sand any rough edges or surfaces to create an even smoother finish.
7. Apply a wood stain or paint of your choice to enhance the appearance of the magazine rack. Use a paintbrush to ensure even coverage, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Allow the stain or paint to dry completely before using the magazine rack to organize your favorite magazines and books.
9. Congratulations! You now have a functional and stylish magazine rack to keep your reading materials organized and easily accessible.

Side Table

Materials Needed

To create your own side table, gather the following materials:

• 1×12 inch wood board, cut to your desired tabletop size
• 2×2 inch wood boards, cut to your desired leg length
• Wood glue
• Wood screws
• Sandpaper
• Wood stain or paint of your choice
• Paintbrush

Tools Needed

Make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Measuring tape
• Saw
• Drill
• Screwdriver

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Measure and mark the desired dimensions for your side table on the wood boards. Cut the 1×12 inch board for the tabletop and the 2×2 inch boards for the legs, ensuring you have enough pieces for the desired height and stability of the table.
2. Sand the edges and surfaces of the wood boards to create a smooth finish.
3. Start assembling the side table by applying wood glue to the top ends of the 2×2 inch leg boards. Position them at each corner of the tabletop, aligning them with the edges.
4. Use wood screws to secure the legs to the tabletop, driving them through the top of the tabletop and into the legs. Place screws evenly along the corners to ensure stability.
5. Once the glue has dried and the legs are securely attached, sand any rough edges or surfaces to create an even smoother finish.
6. Apply a wood stain or paint of your choice to enhance the appearance of the side table. Use a paintbrush to ensure even coverage, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
7. Allow the stain or paint to dry completely before using the side table to showcase your favorite decor items or provide a convenient surface for drinks and snacks.
8. Congratulations! You now have a versatile and stylish side table that adds functionality and charm to any room in your home.

Coat Rack

Materials Needed

To create your own coat rack, gather the following materials:

• 2×4 inch wood board, cut to your desired length
• Large coat hooks, enough for your desired number of coats
• Wood glue
• Screws
• Sandpaper
• Wood stain or paint of your choice
• Paintbrush

Tools Needed

Make sure you have the following tools on hand:

• Measuring tape
• Saw
• Drill
• Screwdriver

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Measure and mark the desired length for your coat rack on the 2×4 inch wood board. Cut the board using a saw, ensuring it is long enough to accommodate your desired number of coat hooks.
2. Sand the edges and surfaces of the wood board to create a smooth finish.
3. Determine the desired spacing for the coat hooks along the wood board. Mark the locations with a pencil.
4. Use a drill to create pilot holes at the marked spots on the wood board. This will prevent the wood from splitting when inserting screws.
5. Apply a small amount of wood glue to the back of each coat hook and firmly press them onto the wood board in the desired locations. Make sure to align them with the pilot holes.
6. Use screws to secure the coat hooks to the wood board. Drive the screws through the pilot holes, making sure they are tight and the coat hooks are securely attached.
7. Once the coat hooks are attached, sand any rough edges or surfaces to create an even smoother finish.
8. Apply a wood stain or paint of your choice to enhance the appearance of the coat rack. Use a paintbrush to ensure even coverage, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
9. Allow the stain or paint to dry completely before mounting the coat rack on the wall.
10. Congratulations! You now have a functional and attractive coat rack that provides a convenient storage solution for your coats and jackets.