Building a wooden dog crate that doubles as an end table is a practical and stylish project. It allows you to create a functional piece of furniture that serves as both a safe space for your dog and a functional end table for your living room. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you build one yourself.
Materials and Tools Needed
Materials:
- 2×2 wood boards (for framing)
- Plywood sheets (for sides and top)
- 1×4 wood slats (for the front and sides, to create the “bars”)
- Wood screws
- Wood glue
- Wood filler (optional)
- Sandpaper (or a power sander)
- Wood stain or paint (optional)
- Varnish or polyurethane (optional)
Tools:
- Circular saw or miter saw
- Drill and drill bits
- Screwdriver or impact driver
- Measuring tape
- Wood clamps (optional but helpful)
- Paintbrush or rag (for staining)
Step 1: Measure and Plan
Before you start cutting any wood, take precise measurements of the space where you want the crate/end table to go. This will help you determine the overall dimensions. The size should be big enough to comfortably accommodate your dog while also fitting seamlessly into your home decor.
- Length: Typically between 30” and 36”.
- Width: Around 18” to 24” to give your dog enough room.
- Height: Between 18” and 24” to make it usable as an end table.
Sketch a basic plan to visualize the structure. Decide how tall you want the crate’s “walls” and whether you want the sides to have more open or closed areas.
Step 2: Cut the Wood
Now that you’ve measured and planned, it’s time to cut the wood.
- Frame pieces: Cut four 2x2s for the vertical posts (height of the crate) and the horizontal top and bottom supports.
- Side panels: Cut plywood to match the dimensions of the sides and back.
- Front panel: Cut 1×4 slats to create the look of bars (for ventilation and visibility) and leave small gaps between each slat.
- Top panel: Cut a piece of plywood for the top of the crate, making sure it fits snugly.
Step 3: Assemble the Frame
Start by constructing the basic frame of the crate.
- Attach the side supports: Lay the two vertical 2x2s for the sides on a flat surface. Attach the horizontal 2x2s to form the top and bottom supports using wood screws and wood glue.
- Assemble the back panel: Attach a plywood sheet to the back of the frame. Use wood screws to secure it in place. This panel will give the crate structure and stability.
- Attach the front panel: If you’re using slats, you’ll need to attach the 1×4 pieces for the front. Space them evenly to allow airflow and visibility for your dog.
Step 4: Add the Top
Now that the basic structure is assembled, it’s time to add the top, which will double as an end table.
- Place the plywood sheet on top of the frame.
- Secure it with screws from the inside of the crate frame so they are not visible on the top.
- If desired, you can add a decorative trim around the edge of the top to give it a more finished look.
Step 5: Sand and Finish
Sand all surfaces of the crate to smooth out any rough edges or splinters. This step is crucial if you want your dog to be comfortable in the crate and also for the overall look of the table.
Once sanded, you can choose to stain or paint the crate to match your living room decor. Apply a wood finish or varnish to protect the wood and give it a polished look.
Step 6: Final Touches
To make your dog crate more functional and comfortable for your pet, consider adding a soft cushion or blanket inside. You can also add some decorative elements to the outside to make it more personalized.
Make sure the crate’s design allows your dog to enter and exit easily. If the crate has a door, you can install a simple wooden door that swings open or a removable panel. However, in most cases, the crate can function without a door if you have it positioned in an area where your dog can go in and out freely.
Step 7: Adding the End Table Features
Since the crate doubles as an end table, you can add small touches to make it more functional for your living room.
- Surface space: Use the top to place lamps, magazines, or other decor items. Just make sure nothing too heavy or dangerous to your dog is placed on the crate.
- Storage: Consider adding a small drawer or hidden compartment under the top if you’d like to store dog supplies or other items.
Tips for Success
- If you are using the crate in a home with an active dog, make sure the structure is sturdy and stable enough to handle their weight.
- You can use non-toxic paint or finishes to ensure the safety of your pet.
- If you prefer a more modern or sleek look, you could consider using metal mesh for the sides instead of wood slats.
With these steps, you’ll be able to create a functional and attractive wooden dog crate that serves as an end table. It’s a great way to blend pet care and interior design into a seamless and stylish piece of furniture.
Interested in expanding your woodworking skills? Check out Teds Woodworking Course here: Teds Woodworking Course.