A wooden bath mat with a slatted design is a stylish and functional way to enhance your bathroom decor. It’s a great project for those who enjoy woodworking, and the slatted design offers excellent drainage and airflow, making it an ideal mat for wet areas. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create your own wooden bath mat.
Materials Needed:
- Wooden slats (cedar, teak, or bamboo are great choices due to their resistance to moisture)
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Wood finish or sealant (water-resistant)
- Measuring tape
- Saw (circular saw, miter saw, or handsaw)
- Wood clamps
- Drill and screws (optional, for added durability)
- Rubber feet or non-slip pads (optional)
Step 1: Choose Your Wood
Selecting the right wood for your bath mat is essential, as it will be exposed to moisture regularly. Cedar and teak are excellent options for their natural resistance to water, mildew, and rot. Bamboo is also a great choice for eco-conscious crafters because it’s durable and moisture-resistant.
Make sure to choose straight, smooth slats without any large knots or imperfections to ensure a smooth surface.
Step 2: Measure and Cut the Wooden Slats
Measure the dimensions of the area where you want to place your bath mat (typically, a bath mat is around 24” x 16”). You can customize the size to fit your space.
- Cut the wooden slats to your desired width, typically between 1 ½ to 2 inches wide for a balanced look.
- Cut the length of the slats according to the mat’s final size. For example, if you’re making a 24” x 16” bath mat, you will need enough slats to cover the 24” length, with gaps in between each one.
The slats should all be cut to the same length for a neat, uniform design.
Step 3: Sand the Slats
Smooth all the edges and surfaces of your slats with medium-grit sandpaper first, then finish them with fine-grit sandpaper for a smooth, polished finish. This is particularly important as the bath mat will be used bare-footed, and rough edges could cause injury or discomfort.
Step 4: Arrange the Slats
Lay out your slats side-by-side in the desired arrangement. Leave a small gap between each slat for drainage. A typical gap of about 1/4” to 1/2” will work well, but feel free to adjust it based on your design preference.
You can arrange the slats in a straight line, or opt for a staggered pattern depending on the look you’re going for.
Step 5: Glue the Slats Together
Once you’re satisfied with the arrangement, apply wood glue to the ends of the slats. Be sure to apply a thin, even layer of glue, avoiding excess that could seep out when the slats are pressed together.
Press the slats together tightly to form a mat. You can clamp them in place to ensure the glue bonds properly. Allow the glue to set according to the manufacturer’s instructions, typically about 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Step 6: Reinforce with Screws (Optional)
For added durability, you can reinforce the wooden slats with screws. Drill pilot holes in the edges of each slat (where the slats meet) and insert screws. Make sure to use wood screws that are short enough to avoid going all the way through the wood.
Alternatively, you can also opt for metal brackets underneath the slats, but this is not always necessary if the glue is strong enough.
Step 7: Apply a Water-Resistant Finish
To ensure your wooden bath mat lasts and resists water damage, you need to apply a water-resistant wood finish or sealant. A polyurethane finish or teak oil will protect the wood from moisture while also enhancing its natural beauty.
- Apply the finish evenly across all sides of the mat, including the edges.
- Allow the finish to dry completely according to the manufacturer’s instructions, usually 2-4 hours.
- Lightly sand the surface between coats for a smoother finish if necessary.
- Apply a second coat for optimal protection.
Step 8: Attach Non-Slip Rubber Feet
To prevent the bath mat from sliding around when in use, attach small rubber feet to each corner or underneath the mat. You can purchase rubber pads at most home improvement stores or use non-slip adhesive strips.
If you prefer a more natural look, you can also opt for a non-slip mat backing that sticks to the entire bottom surface of the mat.
Step 9: Allow to Dry and Use
Once the finish and non-slip feet are applied, allow the bath mat to cure for at least 24 hours. After this, your wooden slatted bath mat is ready for use!
Maintenance Tips:
- Cleaning: Wipe the mat regularly with a damp cloth to remove excess moisture and dirt. Avoid soaking the mat, as prolonged exposure to water can damage the wood.
- Reapply finish: Over time, the wood may need a reapplication of water-resistant finish to maintain its protective layer.
Conclusion
Making a wooden bath mat with a slatted design is a rewarding and functional woodworking project. The slatted design not only looks aesthetically pleasing but also ensures proper drainage and airflow, which helps to keep the mat dry and free from mildew. With the right wood, tools, and finish, you’ll have a durable, stylish addition to your bathroom that’s sure to last for years.
For more woodworking ideas and detailed project plans, consider checking out Ted’s Woodworking Course here.