Building a wooden laundry sorter with three compartments is a great project for any woodworking enthusiast. It not only adds functionality to your laundry room but also provides a clean, organized way to sort clothes. Below are the steps to help you build your own wooden laundry sorter with three compartments.
Materials Needed:
- Wood (Pine or plywood work well)
- Screws (1 ¼ inches for attaching wood pieces)
- Wood glue
- Wooden dowels (for the compartments)
- Hinges (if making a lid for the sorter)
- Handles (optional, if you want to make it easier to move)
- Sandpaper
- Stain or paint (optional for finishing)
- Measuring tape
- Circular saw or table saw
- Drill
- Clamps
- Screwdriver
Step 1: Plan Your Design
Start by planning out your laundry sorter dimensions. Here’s a basic breakdown of how to size your sorter:
- Width: 36 inches (this allows three equal-sized compartments, each 12 inches wide)
- Height: 30 inches (a comfortable height for accessing laundry)
- Depth: 12 inches (sufficient depth for sorting laundry)
Adjust the dimensions based on your space and preferences, but keeping everything proportional will ensure a sturdy and functional design.
Step 2: Cut the Wood Pieces
You’ll need to cut your wood for the following pieces:
- Front and Back Panels (2 pieces): 36 inches (wide) x 30 inches (high)
- Side Panels (2 pieces): 12 inches (deep) x 30 inches (high)
- Bottom Panel: 36 inches (wide) x 12 inches (deep)
- Divider Panels (2 pieces): 12 inches (wide) x 30 inches (high) for the dividers between the compartments
- Compartment Bottoms (3 pieces): 12 inches (wide) x 12 inches (deep) (for the compartment bottoms)
Once all your pieces are cut, sand the edges and surfaces to remove rough spots and splinters.
Step 3: Assemble the Frame
Start with the bottom panel and attach the two side panels to it using wood glue and screws. To strengthen the connection, drill pilot holes before inserting screws. Use clamps to hold the pieces in place while the glue sets.
Next, attach the front and back panels to the side panels, again using glue and screws. Be sure everything is square by measuring and adjusting as you go.
Step 4: Install the Dividers
Once the frame is assembled, you’ll install the dividers. These should be placed evenly in the middle to separate the sorter into three equal sections. Position the dividers vertically inside the frame, securing them with wood glue and screws. You can also use dowels for additional support if you’d like.
Step 5: Attach the Bottoms of the Compartments
After securing the dividers, you’ll attach the compartment bottoms. These pieces will sit at the base of each divider section. Simply glue and screw the bottoms into place, making sure they are level and securely fastened.
Step 6: Sand and Finish
Once the frame is fully assembled, take time to sand the entire unit to ensure smooth surfaces and rounded edges. This is especially important if you plan to stain or paint your sorter.
You can choose to finish the wood by applying a stain or paint of your choice to match the aesthetic of your laundry room. Apply the finish in thin coats, allowing each layer to dry before applying the next.
Step 7: Add Handles or Lid (Optional)
If you want to make the sorter more portable, you can attach handles to the sides of the sorter. Use screws to secure the handles, making sure they are positioned comfortably for lifting.
For a more sophisticated look, consider adding a hinged lid to the top of your sorter. This will keep the laundry out of sight and provide a neat, enclosed appearance. Install hinges on the back of the sorter and attach the lid securely.
Step 8: Final Assembly and Adjustments
Once everything is dry and securely fastened, you can make any final adjustments, such as adding extra support or reinforcing joints with additional screws. Ensure the compartments are easy to access and can hold your laundry without sagging.
Step 9: Place and Use
Once the laundry sorter is complete, place it in your laundry room or wherever you do laundry. Now you have a functional and custom-built wooden laundry sorter that will help keep your laundry organized with separate compartments for whites, darks, and delicates, or however you prefer to sort your clothes.
By following these steps, you’ll have a beautiful, functional wooden laundry sorter that is both practical and durable. You can customize the size and design to fit your specific space and needs, making it an excellent woodworking project that pays off in daily convenience.
For a comprehensive guide on woodworking projects like this one, consider checking out Ted’s Woodworking Course for detailed plans and expert tips: Ted’s Woodworking Course