Creating a wooden jewelry stand with a rotating base is a rewarding woodworking project that allows you to combine both function and aesthetic appeal. With a little patience and basic woodworking tools, you can create a stand that not only showcases your jewelry but also makes it easy to access. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create your very own rotating wooden jewelry stand.
Materials and Tools
Before you begin, gather the following materials and tools:
Materials:
- Wood (1/4″ or 1/2″ thick plywood or hardwood for the base and posts)
- Wood glue
- Wood screws (optional for extra security)
- Sandpaper (various grits)
- Wood finish (varnish, lacquer, or paint, depending on preference)
- Small rotating base mechanism or lazy Susan hardware
- Jewelry hooks or pegs (can be purchased or made from dowels)
Tools:
- Saw (table saw, jigsaw, or circular saw)
- Drill with bits (for making holes for pegs or hooks)
- Sanding block or electric sander
- Screwdriver
- Clamps
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Pencil for marking
Step 1: Design Your Jewelry Stand
Before cutting any wood, sketch a simple design for the jewelry stand. Consider the height and width based on your needs. The design will typically include:
- A base (preferably circular for rotation)
- Vertical posts (to hang jewelry from)
- A rotating mechanism at the bottom
If you’re unsure of the measurements, you can start with a circular base that’s about 10 to 12 inches in diameter and posts that rise about 12 to 18 inches above the base.
Step 2: Cut the Base and Posts
Cut the Base:
- Using a circular saw or jigsaw, cut the base of the jewelry stand into a circular shape. This will be the platform that holds the posts and allows the stand to rotate. You can use a pre-cut wooden circle or cut a larger square and shape it into a circle with your saw.
Cut the Posts:
Cut your posts to the desired height. Depending on your design, you may want to use two or more posts for hanging the jewelry. The posts should be thin enough to look elegant but sturdy enough to hold the weight of the jewelry.
Use a saw to cut these posts to size, and make sure both are the same length.
Step 3: Sand the Wood
Once all your parts are cut, use sandpaper or a sander to smooth out any rough edges. Sanding will give the wood a polished look and help the finish adhere better. Be sure to smooth the cut edges of the base and posts, as well as the surface of the base.
Step 4: Attach the Rotating Mechanism
Install the Lazy Susan Hardware:
A rotating jewelry stand requires a lazy Susan mechanism or some other rotating base hardware. These can be purchased at most home improvement stores or online.
If you use a lazy Susan, attach the rotating mechanism to the center of the circular base. Most lazy Susan kits come with two pieces: one to attach to the base and one for the rotating platform.
Secure the Mechanism:
- Mark the center of your base and use a drill to create holes for the screws. Install the lazy Susan hardware according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It is important to ensure that the base can rotate smoothly, so double-check its rotation before proceeding.
Step 5: Attach the Posts
Drill Holes for the Posts:
Place the posts where you want them on the base. Mark the spots for the holes that will hold the posts securely.
Drill pilot holes into the base and the bottom of the posts. If you prefer a sturdier attachment, you can screw the posts directly into the base or use wood glue for a more seamless look.
Attach the Posts:
Apply wood glue to the bottom of each post and position them on the base. Clamp the posts into place while the glue dries. If you prefer to use screws, pre-drill holes and secure the posts with screws from the underside of the base.
Allow the glue to dry for at least 30 minutes to an hour before handling.
Step 6: Add Jewelry Hooks or Pegs
Install Hooks:
- To create a space for hanging jewelry, you’ll need to attach hooks or pegs to the posts. You can purchase small jewelry hooks or create your own by cutting short pieces of dowel and gluing them to the posts.
Position the Hooks:
- Measure the spacing of the hooks to ensure even distribution. Depending on how much jewelry you want to hang, space them out accordingly. Use a drill to create small holes where you want the hooks to go and then screw or glue them into place.
Alternative Option – Pegs:
- If you prefer pegs over hooks, drill small holes into the posts and insert dowel pieces into these holes. Cut the dowels to your desired length, leaving enough space between each peg to hang necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.
Step 7: Finish the Stand
- Apply Finish:
- After the glue has dried and the stand is fully assembled, apply your chosen wood finish. A varnish or lacquer will protect the wood from damage and give it a glossy appearance. If you prefer a matte finish, you can use a simple wood oil.
- Let Dry:
- Allow the finish to dry completely before using the stand. This may take several hours, depending on the type of finish you used.
Step 8: Test the Stand
Once the finish has dried and the stand is assembled, place it on a flat surface and check the rotation. Ensure that the lazy Susan mechanism allows the base to rotate smoothly. Test the stability of the posts and hooks by hanging a few pieces of jewelry to make sure they are secure.
Step 9: Display Your Jewelry
Now that your rotating jewelry stand is complete, it’s time to showcase your jewelry. Hang necklaces, bracelets, earrings, or rings on the hooks and pegs. The rotating base makes it easy to turn the stand and view all your jewelry at once, keeping everything organized and accessible.
This wooden jewelry stand with a rotating base will not only help you store your jewelry in an organized way, but it will also make an elegant display piece for your home. You can personalize the design, finish, and size to fit your needs, creating a one-of-a-kind piece that’s both practical and beautiful.
For more woodworking projects and to hone your skills, check out Ted’s Woodworking Course here: Teds Woodworking Course.
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