Building a wooden shaving stand with a brush holder is a fun and rewarding woodworking project. Not only does it offer a practical solution for organizing your shaving tools, but it can also add a touch of elegance to your bathroom or grooming area. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create your own wooden shaving stand with a brush holder.
Materials and Tools You’ll Need:
Materials:
- A wooden board (oak, pine, or any wood of your choice)
- Wood dowels (1/4-inch diameter for the brush holder)
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper (medium and fine-grit)
- Wood finish or varnish
- A small wooden block or piece of wood (for the base)
- Screws (if needed for additional support)
Tools:
- Saw (for cutting the wood pieces)
- Drill with bits (for making holes for the dowels)
- Sanding block or electric sander
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Wood clamps (for holding pieces while the glue dries)
- Wood glue applicator
- Screwdriver (if using screws for additional support)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Plan Your Design
Before you begin, it’s important to sketch a design for your shaving stand. Decide on the height of the stand and the dimensions of the brush holder. Typically, the stand should be around 7-10 inches in height, with a base that provides stability. The brush holder should be large enough to hold your shaving brush without causing damage, typically with a diameter of about 1-1.5 inches.
Step 2: Cut the Base and Vertical Support
- Base: Start by cutting a rectangular piece of wood for the base of the shaving stand. This should be a stable piece, around 4 inches wide and 6-8 inches long, depending on your preference.
- Vertical Support: Cut a piece of wood to serve as the vertical support. This piece should be about 7-10 inches long and approximately 1 inch wide. Sand the edges to ensure smoothness.
Step 3: Create the Brush Holder
- Cut the Dowels: Measure and cut two small dowels that will serve as the brush holder. These should be around 1-2 inches long.
- Drill Holes for the Dowels: Use a drill to make two holes in the vertical support, one near the top and another slightly lower. These holes should be just wide enough to snugly fit the dowels. Drill the holes carefully, ensuring they are aligned.
- Attach the Dowels: Apply wood glue to the ends of the dowels and insert them into the holes. Hold them in place using clamps until the glue sets. For added security, you can drill small pilot holes and screw in the dowels from the back of the vertical support.
Step 4: Assemble the Stand
- Attach the Vertical Support to the Base: Position the vertical support in the center of the base. Apply wood glue to the bottom of the support and press it firmly onto the base. If needed, you can reinforce this attachment by drilling small holes and screwing the pieces together. Clamp the stand together and allow the glue to dry completely.
- Ensure Stability: Once the glue has dried, check that the vertical support is stable and properly aligned with the base. If necessary, sand the edges of the base and the vertical support to ensure they are smooth.
Step 5: Sand and Finish
- Sanding: Once the assembly is complete, use medium-grit sandpaper to smooth out any rough areas. Follow up with fine-grit sandpaper for a polished finish. Pay particular attention to the edges and any exposed parts of the wood.
- Apply Finish: To protect the wood and enhance its appearance, apply a wood finish or varnish. This will not only give the shaving stand a beautiful sheen but will also make it more durable and water-resistant. Allow the finish to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 6: Final Touches
- Brush Holder Positioning: If you want to add a bit more functionality, you can create a small holder for the razor. You could drill a hole in the base or the vertical support to hold your razor, or attach another small dowel on the side.
- Check for Fit: Make sure the shaving brush fits comfortably on the dowels and that it hangs securely without tipping over. If the brush holder is too tight, you can lightly sand the dowels to ensure a perfect fit.
Step 7: Test and Enjoy
Once everything is dry and finished, your wooden shaving stand with a brush holder is ready to be used! Place your shaving brush on the dowels, and your stand will not only keep your grooming items organized but also give them a beautiful, wooden touch.
Building your own shaving stand is an enjoyable woodworking project that adds both style and function to your bathroom. Whether you’re a seasoned woodworker or a beginner, this project is sure to impress.
For more woodworking projects and plans, check out Teds Woodworking Course here.