Creating a wooden toy organizer with bins is a practical and fun woodworking project. It can help keep your space tidy while adding a handmade touch to your home. Below is a step-by-step guide to making a toy organizer with wooden bins.
Materials Needed:
- 3/4″ plywood (for the main structure)
- 1/4″ plywood or MDF (for the bins)
- Wood glue
- Screws
- Wood filler
- Sandpaper (various grits)
- Paint or wood stain (optional)
- Drawer slides (optional, if you want sliding bins)
- A circular saw or table saw
- Drill and drill bits
- Screwdriver or impact driver
- Measuring tape
- Square
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Planning and Measuring
- Determine Size and Design: Decide the size of the toy organizer. A typical toy organizer might be about 30 inches wide, 36 inches tall, and 12 inches deep, but adjust according to your space and needs. Plan for bins that can slide in and out or stack, depending on your design preference.
- Dimensions for Bins: For each bin, plan for a width of about 12 to 16 inches, depth of around 12 inches, and height of about 6 inches, but this can vary depending on the size of the toys you want to store.
2. Cutting the Wood
- Main Structure: Start by cutting the plywood for the frame of the organizer. You’ll need:
- Two side pieces (e.g., 36″ tall x 12″ deep)
- A bottom piece (e.g., 30″ wide x 12″ deep)
- Two top pieces (e.g., 30″ wide x 3″ high for the top frame)
- Additional divider pieces if you plan to separate the bins.
- Bins: Cut the 1/4″ plywood for the bins. Each bin should have:
- 4 side pieces (e.g., 12″ wide x 6″ high)
- A bottom piece (e.g., 12″ wide x 12″ deep)
Pro Tip: Make sure your cuts are straight and accurate to ensure proper fitting.
3. Assembling the Frame
- Attach the Sides: Begin by attaching the two side pieces of the frame to the bottom piece using wood glue and screws. Drill pilot holes to prevent the wood from splitting.
- Add Top and Dividers: Attach the top frame pieces, leaving enough space between them for the bins to slide in and out. If you want compartments for the bins, install vertical dividers at regular intervals (e.g., every 12-16 inches, depending on your bin size).
- Secure the Frame: Once the frame is complete, use wood filler to cover any screw holes. Sand smooth once the filler dries.
4. Assembling the Bins
- Construct Bin Walls: Use wood glue to attach the side pieces of each bin to the bottom piece, forming a box. Reinforce the edges with screws for extra durability.
- Attach a Front Lip: If you want the bins to be easier to pull out, you can add a small lip or handle on the front of each bin. You can either cut a small piece of wood to act as a handle or drill holes directly into the front face of the bin.
- Smooth the Edges: Sand all the rough edges of the bins to prevent splinters.
5. Finishing Touches
- Sand the Entire Project: Once everything is assembled, thoroughly sand the entire organizer, starting with a coarse grit sandpaper and finishing with a fine grit for a smooth surface.
- Paint or Stain: You can now paint or stain the organizer to your liking. For a safe and durable finish, use non-toxic paint or wood finishes, especially if children will be using the organizer. Allow the finish to dry completely before moving to the next step.
Pro Tip: Consider using a water-based finish for easier cleanup and to avoid strong fumes.
6. Installing the Bins
- Place Bins in the Frame: If you want the bins to slide in and out, install drawer slides along the sides of the frame and bins. Alternatively, you can simply place the bins in the frame without slides for a more basic design.
- Organize and Use: Once everything is assembled and finished, place your bins in the organizer, filling each one with toys, books, or other small items!
Additional Tips:
- Customization: You can add extra features such as labels, a coat of paint with fun designs, or a built-in book rack to customize the toy organizer further.
- Mobile Organizer: If you want your organizer to be mobile, you can add casters to the bottom of the frame. Just ensure that they’re strong enough to support the weight of the toy organizer when filled.
This simple yet functional project will help you get organized while adding a personalized touch to your home. With the flexibility to adjust the size and appearance, the toy organizer can be made to fit any space, and its sturdy construction will last for years.
If you’re looking for more woodworking projects and detailed instructions, consider checking out Teds Woodworking Course here.