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This D.I.Y. wooden shoe rack has so many uses. It can double as a bench or a hallway stand, with a finished size of 1200mm wide, 285mm deep and just over 900mm high. Move it from the mud room to the spare room to your garage as needed.
If you finish it in tough, water-based enamel paint, that will help protect it from wear and tear in high traffic areas. Alternatively, leave the dowel natural and seal it with furniture oil for a different look.
Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (safety glasses, ear muffs and a mask, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.
First, check the six 1200mm dowel are exactly the same lengths, trimming them to match the shortest piece if needed. Cut a length of 285mm x 19mm pine in half for the top and base. Cut the remaining length into thirds for the divider and two sides, checking they are the same.
To set out a grid for the holes on the divider and sides, use a combination square to mark down both sides, 70mm in from the edges. Measure down 180mm, 360mm and 540mm to mark across.
Position the arbor of a 19mm holesaw on the intersections of the grid to drill halfway through. To prevent breakout, flip the pine to finish drilling from the opposite face, through the small holes made by the arbor.
On the top and base, mark a line across the centre and 10mm in from the ends. Use an 8G countersink bit to make holes at the centre and 30mm in from the edges. Sand all pieces with 180-grit abrasive paper to remove breakout. Test-fit the dowel, sanding inside the holes with rolled paper if needed.
Working on a flat surface, set out the top and base against the sides, using a rafter square to check they are straight. Apply adhesive and secure through the holes with 40mm screws and clamp to dry. Repeat to install the divider at the centre. Smooth over the screw heads with filler, leaving to dry.
Sand over the filler and then wipe with a damp cloth to remove dust. Use a mini microfibre roller to apply primer all over the cabinet, leaving to dry. Change the roller cover to apply two coats of water-based enamel, leaving to dry after each.
Turn the cabinet upside down and tap the dowel through the holes with a rubber mallet. Use a nail punch to hammer 20mm bullet head nails through both sides of all holes in the divider, checking the overhang is even at the ends. Sand any paint or dents from the dowel and wipe away dust. Apply a protective furniture oil with a clean cloth, leaving to dry.
To mark the castor holes, use a combination square to position them 20mm in from the edges, with the brakes on opposite corners. Pre-drill with a 2.5mm bit, using tape 15mm from the end of the bit as a depth gauge. Secure with 20mm button head screws.
Check out our steps to create a key holder for the entryway.
Some products are not available at all Bunnings stores, but may be ordered.
Photo Credit: Natasha Dickins
Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.
When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.
