Creating a wooden kitchen spice rack with a lazy Susan design is a fun and practical project for any woodworker. A lazy Susan design allows easy access to all of your spices without having to search through cabinets or drawers. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to make this functional and stylish spice rack for your kitchen.
Materials and Tools Required
Materials:
- Wood (pine, oak, or any hardwood of your choice) – enough for the base, tiers, and dividers
- Lazy Susan bearing (available at most hardware stores)
- Wood screws
- Wood glue
- Finish or sealant (optional for finishing)
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Wood filler (optional)
- Clear acrylic or glass for dividers (optional)
Tools:
- Circular saw or jigsaw
- Drill and drill bits
- Screwdriver
- Measuring tape
- Wood clamps
- Woodworker’s square
- Compass or pencil for marking curves
- Router (optional for edge finishing)
- Paintbrush (for finish)
Step 1: Planning and Measuring
Determine the Size of Your Spice Rack: Decide the dimensions of your rack based on the space you have available and the number of spices you wish to store. A typical spice rack can have three or more tiers. For instance, a 12-inch diameter is a good starting point for a medium-sized rack, with each tier being about 2-3 inches high.
Design the Layout: The lazy Susan design involves a rotating mechanism, so your rack will consist of several circular platforms (tiers) stacked one above the other. Sketch out the dimensions and make sure the top and bottom diameters are slightly smaller than the Lazy Susan bearing.
Step 2: Cutting the Wood for the Base and Tiers
Cut the Base: Using your saw, cut a circle from your chosen wood for the base. This will be the foundation of your spice rack and should be wide enough to accommodate the lazy Susan bearing (typically around 10-12 inches in diameter).
Cut the Tiers: You’ll need multiple tiers to hold the spice jars. Cut several smaller circles from the wood for the tiers. The diameter of each tier should gradually decrease as you go higher up, allowing you to maximize vertical space. Each tier should be around 1-2 inches smaller in diameter than the one below it.
Smooth the Edges: After cutting, sand all edges smooth with medium-grit sandpaper, followed by fine-grit sandpaper for a polished finish. If desired, use a router for a rounded edge for a more professional look.
Step 3: Assembling the Spice Rack
Drill Holes for the Lazy Susan Bearing: On the center of the base and each tier, drill a hole for the Lazy Susan bearing. The hole size should match the diameter of the bearing’s central post. Ensure the hole is drilled straight to prevent wobbling when the rack rotates.
Attach the Lazy Susan Bearing: Place the Lazy Susan bearing on the bottom of the base and align it with the drilled hole. Secure it with screws. Then, attach the same type of bearing to the underside of the top tier. This will allow the top tier to rotate on the base.
Stack the Tiers: Use wood glue and screws to secure the tiers on top of each other. Ensure the glue is applied evenly to avoid any shifting or misalignment as the glue sets. Start with the smallest tier at the top and work your way down.
Secure the Dividers (Optional): If you prefer, you can add dividers to each tier to keep your spice jars separated. Cut small strips of wood or use clear acrylic for this purpose. Attach them with wood glue and screws to the inside of the tiers.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
Apply Finish or Paint: To protect the wood and enhance its appearance, apply a wood finish or paint. A clear wood finish will allow the natural grain to show through, while a paint color can complement your kitchen décor. Let it dry completely before using the rack.
Optional: Add Labels: If desired, you can label each section or jar to help with organization. This can be done with small adhesive labels or a label maker.
Step 5: Final Assembly
Once the finish has dried, place the top tier on the bearing, ensuring it spins smoothly. Place your spices on the tiers, and test the rotation. Make sure the rack is stable, and the tiers spin without obstruction.
Conclusion
Now you have a beautiful and functional wooden spice rack with a lazy Susan design! This rack not only keeps your spices organized and easily accessible but also adds a stylish touch to your kitchen. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodworker, this project is manageable and customizable. Enjoy your new spice rack, and feel free to make it your own by incorporating additional features such as a drawer for other kitchen items or adjustable tiers for various jar sizes.
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