How to make a wooden toy chest with a chalkboard lid

Building a wooden toy chest with a chalkboard lid is a rewarding project that combines functionality and creativity. It’s not only a great way to store toys but also allows for a personalized touch with the chalkboard lid, making it perfect for kids’ rooms. This guide will take you step-by-step through the process of making your own wooden toy chest with a chalkboard lid.

Materials You’ll Need:

• Wooden boards (for the chest and lid)
  • Plywood or hardwood (for the sides, bottom, and lid)
• Chalkboard paint (for the lid)
• Screws and wood glue (for assembly)
• Hinges (for the lid)
• Wooden trim pieces (optional, for extra decoration)
• Sandpaper (for smoothing rough edges)
• Wood finish or paint (to seal the wood)
• Measuring tape, pencil, square, and saw (for cutting the wood)
• Drill and screwdriver (for assembly)

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Wood

Start by measuring and cutting the wood for your toy chest. You’ll need:

• Two side pieces: Cut these to the height you want the chest to be. For example, a height of 18 inches is typical for a toy chest.
• Two end pieces: These should match the depth of the chest. A depth of 24 inches is a good standard size.
• One bottom piece: This should be the length and width of the chest base, matching the length of the side pieces and the depth of the end pieces.
• One lid piece: This should be the same size as the top of the chest. You can make it overhang the edges slightly for a polished look.
• Optional trim pieces: You can add decorative trim around the edges of the chest.

Cut the wood using a saw. A table saw will make straight cuts, but a circular saw or handsaw will also work.

Step 2: Assemble the Chest

Once your pieces are cut, it’s time to assemble the chest. Start by attaching the side pieces to the end pieces using wood glue and screws. Make sure the corners are square and aligned properly using a carpenter’s square.

1. Attach the bottom: Secure the bottom piece to the sides and end pieces with wood glue and screws. This will provide stability and strength to the chest.
2. Add decorative trim (optional): If you’d like, you can attach trim pieces around the edges of the chest to give it a more polished look.

Let the chest dry for a few hours to ensure a strong bond before proceeding.

Step 3: Install the Hinges

To make the lid functional, you’ll need to attach the hinges. First, mark the placement of the hinges on both the back of the chest and the lid.

1. Attach the hinges: Drill pilot holes for the screws, then attach the hinges to both the lid and the back of the chest.
2. Test the lid: Open and close the lid a few times to make sure the hinges are functioning properly and that the lid fits securely.

Step 4: Sand the Edges

Before you proceed with finishing, smooth out any rough edges or surfaces by sanding the entire chest with medium-grit sandpaper. Focus on the corners and edges, as these are areas that can have splinters or rough patches.

Once the chest feels smooth, use finer-grit sandpaper to give the surface a polished finish. Wipe down the chest with a damp cloth to remove dust.

Step 5: Apply Chalkboard Paint to the Lid

The standout feature of this toy chest is the chalkboard lid. Start by applying a coat of chalkboard paint to the top of the lid. Chalkboard paint is available in a variety of colors, but black or dark green is most common.

1. Prepare the surface: Make sure the surface of the lid is clean and smooth before applying the chalkboard paint.
2. Apply the first coat: Use a paintbrush or roller to apply an even coat of chalkboard paint. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drying times and the number of coats needed.
3. Allow the paint to cure: Let the paint fully cure before using it. Some chalkboard paints require 24 hours to set completely, while others may need longer.

Once dry, you can season the chalkboard surface by rubbing the side of a piece of chalk over it and then erasing it. This prevents the chalkboard from having “ghosting” or marks from the first writing.

Step 6: Finish the Wood

After applying the chalkboard paint, it’s time to finish the rest of the toy chest. Apply a wood finish or paint of your choice. For a classic look, you can stain the wood, then seal it with a polyurethane finish. If you want a painted finish, apply a coat of your chosen color, and let it dry before applying a clear coat to protect the paint.

Allow the finish to dry thoroughly before using the toy chest.

Step 7: Add Safety Features

If you’re building a toy chest for young children, it’s essential to add safety features to prevent accidents:

• Lid support: Install a lid support or a pneumatic gas spring to prevent the lid from slamming shut.
• Safety hinges: Use safety hinges that prevent the lid from closing too quickly, keeping it from accidentally pinching little fingers.
• Lid stops: Install a stop to keep the lid from opening too far, ensuring that it doesn’t fall backward.

Step 8: Personalize the Chalkboard Lid

Now that the chest is built and finished, you can personalize the chalkboard lid. Let the kids draw their favorite designs, or write their name or toy categories (like “Legos” or “Dolls”) on the chalkboard. This adds a fun and personal touch to the toy chest, making it even more special.

Conclusion

Building a wooden toy chest with a chalkboard lid is a fun and practical DIY project that can add a creative and organized touch to any room. Whether you’re using it to store toys or as a multifunctional piece of furniture, it’s an excellent way to combine craftsmanship with imagination.

For more woodworking projects and detailed plans, check out Teds Woodworking Course here.