Creating a wooden coat stand with a marble base is an elegant and functional DIY project that combines the warmth of wood with the sleek, modern appeal of marble. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this beautiful piece of furniture.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Wood for the coat stand (preferably hardwood like oak, walnut, or maple)
- Marble slab (around 12” x 12” or as per your preferred size)
- Wood glue
- Screws
- Wood finish (like stain or varnish)
- Drill with wood and masonry bits
- Saw (miter or table saw)
- Measuring tape
- Wood dowels (optional)
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Brush or cloth for applying finish
Tools Required:
- Drill and Drill Bits
- Saw (for cutting the wood and dowels)
- Screwdriver
- Clamps (for holding pieces while glue sets)
- Level (to ensure the stand is straight)
- Towel or cloth (for cleaning surfaces)
- Safety gear (gloves, goggles, and dust mask)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Plan and Measure
Before you start cutting, decide on the design and measurements for the coat stand. Typically, a coat stand will have a vertical pole (which will hold the hooks or pegs), a base to stabilize it, and multiple hooks for coats, bags, etc.
- Base: Choose a square or round marble slab. The size should be large enough to provide stability to the stand (around 12” x 12”).
- Wooden Pole: Measure the desired height for your coat stand. Typically, coat stands are between 5 to 6 feet tall.
- Hooks: You can buy pre-made wooden or metal hooks or create your own.
Step 2: Cutting the Wooden Pieces
Using your saw, cut the wood into the following pieces:
- One main vertical pole (the height of your choice)
- Wooden support base (to connect the pole to the marble slab)
- Wooden dowels or pegs (for the coat hooks, around 3-4 inches long, depending on preference)
If you want a decorative touch, consider cutting the wood into decorative shapes at the top of the pole, like adding a flared edge or carving out a unique design.
Step 3: Preparing the Marble Base
Marble is heavy and durable, making it the perfect material for the base. However, drilling into marble requires some care.
- Measure the center of the marble slab.
- Use a masonry drill bit to drill a hole through the center of the marble where the wooden pole will sit. Make sure the hole is wide enough to fit the wooden support or pole securely.
- Clean off any debris after drilling.
Step 4: Assembling the Stand
Attach the Wooden Pole to the Marble Base:
- Place the pole vertically over the hole you’ve drilled into the marble base.
- Apply a strong wood glue to the bottom of the wooden pole where it will touch the marble. You may also want to use a few screws to secure it in place, but be cautious not to crack the marble when driving the screws.
- If you’re using dowels to attach the pole, drill holes in both the pole and the marble base, then insert dowels for a firmer hold. Apply wood glue in the holes before inserting the dowels.
Install the Coat Hooks or Pegs:
- Drill evenly spaced holes into the top section of the wooden pole where you want to attach the hooks.
- Attach the coat hooks or pegs by screwing them in place or gluing them, depending on your design.
Step 5: Sand and Finish the Wooden Parts
- Sand the wooden components of your coat stand to smooth any rough edges.
- Start with medium grit sandpaper, then finish with fine grit for a smooth surface.
- Apply your chosen wood finish. This could be a wood stain, varnish, or a clear lacquer to protect the wood and bring out its natural grain.
Step 6: Final Touches
- Once the finish is dry, you can carefully wipe the marble slab to remove any dust.
- Position the coat stand in your desired location, making sure it is level and stable.
Tips for Success:
- When working with marble, always wear safety glasses and a dust mask.
- Consider adding a protective rubber pad under the marble to avoid scratching your floors.
- If you want extra stability, you can add additional dowels to connect the wooden pole to the marble base, or use wood screws to further secure the base to the pole.
Conclusion
This simple yet sophisticated project combines the natural elegance of wood with the timeless beauty of marble, creating a unique coat stand for your entryway or hallway. With a little patience and attention to detail, you can create a functional piece of furniture that will impress guests and add style to your home.
For those looking to expand their woodworking skills, Ted’s Woodworking Course offers step-by-step guidance on creating various furniture pieces and woodworking projects.