How to build a wooden spice rack with glass jar holders

Building a wooden spice rack with glass jar holders is a practical and aesthetically pleasing way to organize your spices while adding a touch of charm to your kitchen. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to build a simple, functional spice rack with glass jar holders:

Materials You’ll Need:

• Wood: Choose a durable wood like pine, oak, or plywood. A 1×12 board (1 inch thick, 12 inches wide) will work well for the base, and a thinner board for the shelves (optional) should also be available.
• Glass jars: Small glass jars, which will hold your spices, should have lids that are either screw-on or flip-top.
• Screws: 1-1/2 inch wood screws for assembling the rack.
• Wood glue: For additional strength in joints.
• Finishing materials: Sandpaper (120-220 grit), wood stain or paint, and a clear wood finish like polyurethane.
• Drill and bits: To make holes for screws and jar holder placements.
• Saw: If your wood isn’t pre-cut.
• Clamps: To hold pieces while the glue dries.
• Rope, brackets, or wall hooks (optional): For mounting the rack on the wall.

Tools Required:

• Circular saw or miter saw (for cutting wood to size)
• Drill and drill bits (for screw holes)
• Screwdriver or drill driver
• Tape measure and pencil for measurements
• Sandpaper or a power sander

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Wood

The first step in building a spice rack is determining the size based on how many jars you want to store.

1. Base piece: The base should be wide enough to hold the jars securely. A good standard size is 3-4 inches deep and around 20-24 inches long, but you can adjust this according to your needs.
2. Shelves (optional): If you want to have multiple tiers for your spice rack, cut the shelves slightly narrower than the base so that the jars can sit comfortably.
3. Jar holders: The holders that will hold the glass jars will need to be made from small blocks or cut slots in the shelf for the jars to sit inside.

Cut the pieces using a saw. If you’re making two or three shelves, cut these pieces to fit your desired number of tiers.

Step 2: Assemble the Spice Rack

Now that your pieces are cut, it’s time to assemble the rack.

1. Attach the sides: Take two vertical side pieces and attach them to the base piece with wood glue and screws. Use clamps to hold them in place while the glue dries for extra strength.
2. Attach the shelves (optional): If you’re adding shelves, attach each shelf at the desired height using wood screws or brackets. Be sure to space them properly to allow your jars to fit.
3. Add support: For added stability, you can add support beams or back panels behind the rack.

Step 3: Install the Jar Holders

This is the crucial part of the build, as it ensures that your glass jars stay in place.

1. Option 1: Jar Slots – You can cut narrow slots into the shelf where the glass jars will sit. To do this, measure the diameter of your jars and cut vertical slots along the front edge of each shelf, deep enough to hold the jars securely. Space these slots evenly across the shelf.

2. Option 2: Jar Holders – If you prefer something simpler, small wooden blocks can be glued or screwed onto each shelf to hold the jars in place. These blocks can be placed at intervals corresponding to the size of the jars.

3. Option 3: Metal or Wooden Rails – Another option is to install small rails along the front edge of each shelf. These rails will keep the jars from sliding off.

Step 4: Sand and Finish

After assembling the rack, use sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges or surfaces. This will help your rack look polished and professional. Start with a medium-grit sandpaper (around 120 grit) and finish with fine-grit (220 grit).

Once the surface is smooth, apply your desired wood finish. If you want a natural look, use a wood stain or a clear finish like polyurethane. If you prefer a painted look, use a kitchen-safe paint. Let the finish dry completely before handling.

Step 5: Mount the Spice Rack

Once the spice rack is fully assembled and dry, you can mount it on your kitchen wall.

1. Wall-mounted rack: If you want to hang your spice rack on the wall, attach two small brackets or hooks to the back of the rack. Make sure they are positioned for secure mounting on the wall. Use screws or nails to mount the rack into studs to ensure it is stable.

2. Countertop display: If you prefer to leave the rack on your countertop or shelf, simply place it in a convenient spot. You could add rubber feet to the bottom to prevent scratching and keep it stable.

Step 6: Fill with Spices

Now comes the fun part! Fill your glass jars with your favorite spices. Label each jar for easy identification, or use clear glass jars to showcase the colorful spices. Arrange them on the shelves of your spice rack.

Tips for a Professional Finish:

• Label the jars: To keep your spices organized, add labels to each glass jar. You can use a label maker, chalkboard labels, or even paint your own labels.
• Use different finishes: Experiment with different wood stains or finishes for a unique look. Dark stains work well in rustic or vintage-style kitchens, while lighter stains or painted finishes suit modern, clean spaces.
• Consider a rotating base: If you’d like a more interactive setup, you could make your spice rack with a rotating mechanism, similar to a lazy susan.

This DIY spice rack with glass jar holders is a great project for both novice and experienced woodworkers. Not only does it help you organize your kitchen, but it also gives your space a homemade, custom feel. Enjoy the process and the end result!

For more woodworking ideas and detailed instructions, check out Ted’s Woodworking Course here.