Creating a wooden TV wall mount with hidden storage is a great DIY project that combines both functionality and style. Not only will it give your TV a sleek, modern look, but it also provides valuable storage space for remote controls, game consoles, or other electronics. Here’s a step-by-step guide to building your own custom wooden TV wall mount with hidden storage.
Materials Needed:
- Wood: Choose a hardwood like oak, maple, or plywood for durability and aesthetics.
- Screws and Wall Anchors: Make sure to get screws and anchors that can support the weight of the TV and mount.
- Hinges: To create the hidden compartment.
- Paint or Stain: For finishing the wood to match your interior design.
- Wood Glue: For securing pieces together.
- Power Drill: To make holes for screws and mounting.
- Circular Saw or Miter Saw: For cutting wood.
- Measuring Tape and Level: To ensure accurate measurements and alignment.
Step 1: Plan Your Design
The first step is to plan the dimensions of your TV wall mount. The size of the mount should correspond to the dimensions of your TV. Additionally, the hidden storage should be large enough to fit the items you want to store but not interfere with the TV mounting.
TV Mount Size: Measure the width and height of your TV, and ensure the mount can hold it securely. Most wall-mounted TV mounts use a bracket system that can be attached to the back of the TV.
Storage Compartment: Think about how much storage you need. The storage could be a simple shelf for a media console or a more complex system with compartments for different items (e.g., remotes, gaming controllers, DVDs, etc.).
Step 2: Cut the Wood
Based on your design plan, cut the wood pieces for both the TV mount and the hidden storage. The structure of the TV wall mount will include:
- A large piece that attaches to the wall (usually a rectangular or square panel).
- Smaller supporting brackets or arms that hold the TV.
For the hidden storage:
- A back panel to support the storage compartment.
- Side panels to create walls for the storage.
- A front panel that can hinge open to reveal the storage.
Step 3: Assemble the Wall Mount
Attach the TV Bracket: Start by fixing the TV mount bracket to the main wood panel. Use screws that are long enough to go through the wood and into the TV bracket. This part is crucial for ensuring the TV stays secure, so be sure to follow the instructions for your specific TV mounting system.
Install the Mounting Panel to the Wall: Once the TV bracket is secured, install the main panel to the wall. Mark the spots on the wall where you’ll drill holes for the screws or wall anchors. Use a level to ensure the panel is straight. Depending on the size and weight of your TV, you may need multiple anchors and screws to distribute the weight evenly.
Step 4: Build the Hidden Storage
Create the Box for Storage: Cut the side panels, top, and bottom for your storage compartment. The size should allow for easy access and enough room for whatever you plan to store. For a more secure finish, you can reinforce the edges with additional wood pieces or dowels.
Attach Hinges: On one side of your storage box, attach hinges. These hinges will allow the front panel of the box to swing open. Depending on your design, you can use concealed hinges to give the box a cleaner, more modern look.
Mount the Storage Box: Install the storage box behind the TV mount. If you’ve designed the wall mount to be hollow behind the TV, place the storage box inside and secure it with screws or brackets. If the storage box is meant to be hidden behind the TV screen, ensure the hinges allow it to open easily when needed.
Step 5: Add Finishing Touches
Paint or Stain the Wood: Sand the surfaces of the wood to smooth out any rough spots. Then, apply a coat of paint or wood stain to match your decor. You can choose a natural wood finish or paint it to blend with the color of the wall for a seamless appearance.
Install the TV: Once the mount and storage are ready, attach your TV to the bracket using the screws provided with your TV mount kit. Make sure everything is secure.
Test the Hidden Storage: Open and close the storage compartment a few times to make sure the hinges are working smoothly and that the storage box is secure.
Step 6: Organize and Enjoy
Once your TV is mounted and the storage compartment is ready, you can organize your items in the hidden storage. This could include remote controls, game consoles, DVDs, or any other items you want to keep out of sight but easily accessible.
You now have a functional and stylish TV wall mount with hidden storage, offering both a clean aesthetic and practical storage solutions.
Final Thoughts
A wooden TV wall mount with hidden storage is a fantastic way to combine style and utility in your living room or entertainment area. This project is relatively simple, but it requires careful planning and execution to ensure that your TV is mounted securely and the hidden storage works effectively.
If you’re new to woodworking or need some additional guidance, Teds Woodworking Course offers a wealth of resources, tutorials, and plans that can help you with this project and many more. Check out Teds Woodworking Course here.