How to make a wooden coat rack with individual flip-down hooks

How to Make a Wooden Coat Rack with Individual Flip-Down Hooks

A wooden coat rack with individual flip-down hooks is a stylish and functional addition to any home. This project combines woodworking skills with a bit of mechanical ingenuity to create a sleek, space-saving solution for hanging coats, bags, and hats. Below is a step-by-step guide to building your own.

Materials & Tools

Materials:

• Hardwood board (e.g., oak, maple, or walnut) – ¾” thick, 6” wide, and 36” long (adjust as needed)
• Wooden dowels (¼” diameter)
• Flip-down hook pieces (matching wood or metal)
• Wood screws (#6, ¾” long)
• Wood glue
• Hinges (small brass or concealed hinges)
• Sandpaper (120 and 220 grit)
• Wood stain or finish
• Wall mounting hardware (keyhole hangers or French cleat)

Tools:

• Table saw or circular saw
• Miter saw
• Drill and bits (⅛” and ¼”)
• Chisel and mallet
• Clamps
• Sander or sanding block
• Measuring tape and pencil

Step 1: Design and Cut the Base Board

1. Decide on the overall length of your coat rack. A 36” length is standard for 5-6 hooks.
2. Cut your hardwood board to the desired length and sand it smooth.
3. Mark the locations where you want the flip-down hooks to be installed, ensuring even spacing.

Step 2: Create the Flip-Down Hooks

1. Cut Hook Pieces:

   • Cut small wooden pieces (about 1” wide by 4” long) to serve as the hooks.
   • Round the bottom edges of each hook for a smooth appearance.

2. Drill Pivot Holes:

   • Drill a ¼” hole near the top of each hook for the pivot dowel.
   • Ensure all holes are positioned consistently to allow uniform movement.

Step 3: Create the Pivot System

1. Drill matching ¼” holes into the main board at the hook locations.
2. Insert wooden dowels through the holes in the board and hooks to act as pivots.
3. Test each hook’s movement to ensure they flip up and down smoothly.

Step 4: Install Stop Mechanisms

• Add small wooden blocks or use a hidden magnet system to stop the hooks at the desired angles.
• You can also route a shallow groove in the back of each hook so they rest securely when in the up position.

Step 5: Sand, Stain, and Finish

1. Sand all surfaces with 120-grit sandpaper, followed by 220-grit for a smooth finish.
2. Apply a wood stain of your choice or leave it natural.
3. Seal the coat rack with a durable finish like polyurethane or Danish oil.

Step 6: Mount the Coat Rack

1. Install keyhole hangers, a French cleat, or simple wall screws for secure mounting.
2. Ensure the coat rack is level and securely fastened to studs or drywall anchors.

Final Thoughts

This project blends function and aesthetics, giving you a stylish coat rack that adapts to your needs. Whether for an entryway, mudroom, or office, it’s a rewarding woodworking project that enhances any space.

For more woodworking plans and detailed tutorials, check out Teds Woodworking Course here: Teds Woodworking Course.