Making a wooden door stop is a simple woodworking project that requires just a few tools and materials. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create your own door stop.
Materials Needed:
- A piece of wood (preferably hardwood like oak, maple, or cherry) about 3 to 4 inches wide, 1 inch thick, and 6 to 8 inches long
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Wood glue (optional)
- Wood finish or paint (optional)
- A saw (miter or hand saw)
- A measuring tape or ruler
- A pencil for marking
- A drill (optional, if you want to add a hole for a rope or handle)
- Clamp (optional)
Steps:
1. Prepare the Wood
Start by selecting the wood for your door stop. Hardwood is a good choice because it’s durable and holds up well to wear. Measure and cut the wood to the desired length, usually between 6 and 8 inches.
2. Shape the Door Stop
Using a saw, cut the wood to the correct size. You can leave it rectangular, but for a more aesthetically pleasing look, you might want to taper the edges slightly or round them off. You can also cut the door stop at an angle on the bottom if you want it to sit at a slight tilt, making it more functional for different types of doors.
- For example, you can cut a bevel along the bottom edge to give the door stop a more refined look.
3. Smooth the Edges
Use medium-grit sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges from the cutting process. After that, finish up with fine-grit sandpaper to make the wood surface nice and smooth.
4. Add a Hole for a Rope (Optional)
If you want to attach a rope or string for easier handling, mark the spot where you want the hole to go. Drill a small hole near the top of the door stop. Be sure the hole is just wide enough for your rope or string to pass through.
5. Finishing
To protect the wood and give it a nice finish, you can apply a wood finish, stain, or paint. This will not only enhance the look of the door stop but will also protect the wood from wear and tear.
- If you choose to use a finish, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for application and drying time.
6. Optional: Add Non-Slip Pads
To prevent the door stop from sliding around on the floor, you can attach a rubber pad or felt pad to the bottom. This is particularly helpful if you’re using the door stop on hardwood floors.
7. Test Your Door Stop
Once the finish is dry, place the door stop in front of the door to test its effectiveness. If it holds the door in place and doesn’t slip, you’re all set. If it’s not quite right, you can always adjust the shape or size.
Final Thoughts
Making your own wooden door stop is an easy, rewarding project that will add a personal touch to your home. Whether you leave the wood in its natural state or choose to paint or stain it, the result will be both functional and stylish.
Want to learn more about woodworking? Check out Teds Woodworking Course here: Teds Woodworking Course.