To create a wooden puzzle storage unit with sliding trays, follow these steps. The design will have compartments to hold individual puzzles and sliding trays for easy access.
Materials:
- Plywood or hardwood boards (1/2″ to 3/4″ thickness)
- Wood screws or nails
- Wood glue
- Drawer slides (for smooth sliding of trays)
- Wood finish or paint (optional for aesthetics)
- Measuring tape
- Saw (circular or table saw for cutting wood)
- Drill (for making holes)
- Sandpaper (for smoothing edges)
- Wooden handles (optional, for sliding trays)
Tools:
- Saw
- Drill and drill bits
- Screwdriver
- Measuring tape
- Clamps (for holding pieces while gluing)
Step-by-Step Guide:
Step 1: Design & Measurements
- Plan the size of your unit. Measure the puzzles you want to store and decide the dimensions of the storage unit. You can design it to have several compartments, with each sliding tray holding one puzzle.
- Dimensions of the trays: Each tray should be slightly larger than the puzzle. For example, if your puzzle is 20″ x 20″, your tray should be 20.5″ x 20.5″ to allow for movement.
- Number of trays: Calculate how many sliding trays you need, depending on the number of puzzles you wish to store.
Step 2: Cutting the Wood
- Cut the panels for the sides, back, and bottom of your storage unit. You’ll need:
- 2 side panels
- 1 back panel
- 1 bottom panel
- Dividers (optional) if you want to organize by category or size
- Cut the tray panels – cut enough for the number of trays you need, plus the sides of each tray.
Step 3: Assemble the Frame
- Assemble the outer box: Attach the side panels to the bottom panel and the back panel using wood glue and screws or nails. Make sure everything is square and level.
- Install dividers (optional): If you want to keep the trays organized in rows, add dividers inside the frame. Use wood glue and screws to secure them.
Step 4: Install the Sliding Tray Mechanism
- Attach drawer slides: Install the sliding drawer hardware inside the frame. Attach one side of the slides to the inner sides of the storage unit, and the other side to the sides of each tray. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper placement and installation.
- For smooth sliding, ensure that the slides are level and correctly aligned.
- Test tray fit: Before securing everything, slide the trays in and out to make sure they glide smoothly.
Step 5: Tray Construction
- Build each tray: Assemble the sides of each tray (usually four sides). Use wood glue and screws to secure them. You can add a bottom piece or leave it open, depending on your design choice.
- Attach handles: Optional, but helpful for ease of pulling the trays. You can attach small wooden handles or pulls on the front side of each tray.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
- Sand the edges: Sand all the edges of the wood to remove any rough spots and splinters.
- Paint or stain: If desired, apply a wood finish or paint to give the storage unit a polished look. Allow it to dry thoroughly.
Step 7: Final Assembly
- Insert the trays into the unit: Place each tray into its designated spot, making sure the slides work correctly and the trays are aligned properly.
- Test everything: Ensure all trays slide smoothly and that there are no obstructions.
Additional Tips:
- Adjustable dividers: Consider making the dividers adjustable to accommodate puzzles of different sizes.
- Label trays: Add labels to each tray for easy identification.
- Optional doors: You can add hinged doors to cover the storage unit, keeping the puzzles dust-free.
By following these steps, you can build a functional and organized wooden puzzle storage unit with sliding trays that allows easy access and protects your puzzles.