How to Make a Wooden Flip-Top Trash Bin with Soft Close
Creating a wooden flip-top trash bin with a soft-close mechanism is a functional and stylish project for your woodworking skills. This type of trash bin is not only convenient but also adds a sleek, modern touch to any room. In this guide, we’ll walk through the materials, tools, and step-by-step instructions needed to craft a custom wooden trash bin with a soft-closing lid.
Materials Needed:
- Wood: Plywood (3/4-inch thickness) for the main structure; hardwood (like oak or maple) for the trim and lid.
- Soft-close hinge kit (available at most hardware stores or online).
- Wood screws: 1-inch and 1 1/4-inch screws.
- Wood glue.
- Sandpaper: 150-grit for smoothing surfaces.
- Wood finish: Polyurethane or any wood finish of your choice.
- Drawer slides: Optional, if you want to make the bin pull-out for easier access.
- Miter saw or table saw: For cutting wood to size.
- Drill and bits: For pre-drilling holes for screws.
- Measuring tape and square: For accurate cuts and angles.
- Clamps: To hold the wood while the glue dries.
- Hinges: Strong enough to support the lid and soft-close mechanism.
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Plan and Measure
The first step in making a wooden flip-top trash bin is to plan the dimensions. Typical trash bins are around 12-16 inches wide, 20-24 inches tall, and 12-15 inches deep. Adjust these measurements based on your space and aesthetic preferences.
- Sides: Cut two pieces of plywood to form the sides of the bin.
- Front and Back: Cut two pieces for the front and back panels of the bin.
- Bottom: A piece for the bottom, cut to fit inside the structure.
- Top Lid: Cut a piece of hardwood (oak, maple, or plywood) for the flip-top lid.
Step 2: Cut the Wood
Using your saw, cut the wood pieces according to the measurements you’ve made. Be sure to carefully check for squareness as you make each cut, especially for the sides and lid.
Step 3: Assemble the Box
- Attach the sides to the front and back panels using wood screws and wood glue. Apply the glue along the edges before screwing the pieces together for a secure and sturdy bond.
- For a clean, seamless look, you may use dowels or pocket holes if you’re familiar with these joinery methods.
- Attach the bottom piece, ensuring it fits snugly into place.
Step 4: Prepare the Flip-Top Lid
- Cut the lid to size. The flip-top lid should overhang slightly from the front to create a clean, finished look.
- Add any trim work to the edges of the lid to give it a polished, professional finish.
- Sand all edges and surfaces to eliminate rough spots, using a finer grit sandpaper (220-grit) for a smooth touch.
Step 5: Install the Soft-Close Hinges
- Soft-close hinges are available for various furniture applications, and they’re relatively simple to install. For the flip-top lid, the soft-close hinge kit should come with mounting plates that attach to the lid and the bin.
- Mark the hinge placement: Measure and mark the spots for the hinges on both the lid and the bin.
- Pre-drill holes: Using a drill, pre-drill holes for the hinge screws to avoid splitting the wood.
- Install the hinges: Screw the hinge hardware onto both the lid and the bin, ensuring the hinges allow the lid to open and close smoothly without resistance.
Step 6: Sand and Finish the Wood
- Smooth the wood: Sand all exposed surfaces, ensuring there are no rough edges.
- Finish with a wood stain or paint if desired. This can add a professional, sleek look to your trash bin.
- After applying your finish, let it dry fully according to the product instructions.
Step 7: Install the Soft-Close Mechanism
- Follow the instructions provided with your soft-close hinge kit. Usually, there will be a spring mechanism or hydraulic component that you will need to attach to the hinge.
- The soft-close feature will ensure that the lid closes slowly and gently, preventing slamming.
Step 8: Final Assembly
Once the soft-close mechanism is in place, test the lid to make sure it operates smoothly and closes quietly. If needed, adjust the tension on the soft-close mechanism.
Step 9: Add a Trash Liner
To complete your flip-top trash bin, consider adding a trash liner inside the bin. This will help contain trash and prevent any mess inside the wooden structure.
Tips and Tricks:
- Customization: If you want to add a more unique touch to your bin, you could carve or stencil designs onto the front panel.
- Locking mechanism: For extra security, you can add a small locking mechanism to the lid, especially if you’re using the bin in an area where it needs to be childproof.
- Finishing: For extra protection, apply multiple layers of clear polyurethane finish to the surface, especially for the lid, since it will experience more wear.
Conclusion
Building a wooden flip-top trash bin with a soft-close mechanism is a rewarding project that can add both functionality and elegance to your home. With just a few basic tools and materials, you can create a custom trash bin that works efficiently while keeping the kitchen or any room looking tidy. The soft-close feature ensures a smooth, quiet lid, making it easy to dispose of waste without annoying noise or slamming.
If you’re looking to take your woodworking projects to the next level, consider checking out Teds Woodworking Course for more detailed plans and expert guidance. You can find it here: Teds Woodworking Course.