How to Create a Wooden Shoe Cubby for an Entryway
A wooden shoe cubby is a practical and stylish solution for organizing footwear in your entryway. With a custom-built wooden shoe cubby, you can keep shoes neatly stored while adding a touch of rustic or modern charm to your home. This guide will walk you through the step-by-step process of building your own wooden shoe cubby, from materials selection to final assembly.
Materials and Tools Needed
Materials:
- Plywood (¾-inch thick) – for the sides, top, bottom, and dividers
- 1×2 boards – for trim and added support
- Wood screws (1 ¼-inch)
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper (120 and 220 grit)
- Wood filler (for smoothing out any gaps)
- Wood stain or paint (optional)
- Polyurethane finish (for durability)
Tools:
- Circular saw or table saw
- Drill and screwdriver bits
- Clamps
- Measuring tape
- Pencil and straightedge
- Sander or sanding block
- Paintbrush or rag (for stain or finish)
Step 1: Measure and Plan Your Cubby Design
Before cutting any wood, determine the size of your shoe cubby based on available entryway space and the number of compartments you need. Standard shoe cubby dimensions can vary, but a good starting size is:
- Width: 36 inches (adjust based on space)
- Height: 18–24 inches
- Depth: 12–14 inches (deep enough for most adult shoes)
- Cubby Slots: 6–8 individual compartments, each about 6 inches wide
Step 2: Cut the Wood Pieces
Using your circular saw or table saw, cut the following pieces from your plywood:
- (2) Side Panels: 18 inches high x 14 inches deep
- (1) Top Panel: 36 inches wide x 14 inches deep
- (1) Bottom Panel: 36 inches wide x 14 inches deep
- (4-6) Vertical Dividers: 12 inches high x 14 inches deep (for compartments)
- (1) Back Panel (optional): 36 inches wide x 18 inches high
Sand all edges smooth to prevent splinters.
Step 3: Assemble the Frame
- Lay the bottom panel flat and position the two side panels on either end.
- Apply wood glue along the edges where the sides meet the bottom panel.
- Secure with 1 ¼-inch wood screws.
- Attach the top panel in the same manner, ensuring everything is flush and square.
Step 4: Install the Dividers
- Measure and mark equal spacing for the cubby dividers inside the frame.
- Apply wood glue to the edges of each divider.
- Place the dividers vertically between the top and bottom panels, aligning them with your markings.
- Secure the dividers with wood screws from the top and bottom.
- Use clamps while the glue dries for added stability.
Step 5: Attach the Back Panel (Optional)
For a more finished look, you can attach a back panel:
- Lay the shoe cubby face-down.
- Place the back panel over the frame and align the edges.
- Secure using nails or wood screws.
Step 6: Sand, Fill, and Finish
- Sand the entire shoe cubby with 120-grit sandpaper, followed by 220-grit for a smooth finish.
- Apply wood filler to screw holes and seams. Let dry, then sand again.
- Stain or paint the shoe cubby in your desired color.
- Apply a polyurethane finish for durability and let it dry completely.
Step 7: Install and Enjoy
Once the finish is dry, place your new wooden shoe cubby in your entryway. You can add small baskets for accessories like socks or shoe polish.
A DIY wooden shoe cubby is a simple, cost-effective project that enhances your home’s organization and style. Customize it further by adding hooks, a cushion top for seating, or even personal labels for each family member.
Looking for more woodworking projects? Check out Teds Woodworking Course for thousands of detailed plans: Click Here.