Building a wooden wine rack that fits under a counter is a fantastic DIY project that can add both style and functionality to your space. It’s an ideal way to store wine bottles while utilizing otherwise unused space. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to construct a custom under-counter wine rack.
Materials and Tools You’ll Need:
- Wood (Pine, Oak, or any hardwood of your choice) – Enough for shelves, dividers, and a back panel
- Measuring tape
- Circular saw or hand saw
- Wood glue
- Wood screws
- Drill with screwdriver bits
- Wood filler
- Sanding block or electric sander
- Wood finish or paint (Optional)
- Clamps
- Level
- Wooden dowels or pegs (Optional, for added design)
Step 1: Measure the Available Space
Before beginning, measure the area under your counter where you want to place the wine rack. Ensure to account for the height, width, and depth of the space to ensure a good fit. Standard wine bottles are about 12 inches tall and 3 inches wide, but make sure to check the dimensions of the bottles you plan to store. You should allow for extra space for easy access and ventilation.
- Width: The space under the counter can determine the number of wine bottles you can store.
- Height: Measure the height of the area to decide whether you want a single row or multiple rows.
- Depth: This will be the length of the wine rack. Typically, a 12-16 inch depth works well for under-counter racks.
Step 2: Plan Your Design
For under-counter wine racks, there are various designs you could use:
- Horizontal storage: Wine bottles laid flat in rows.
- Angled storage: Bottles stored at a slight angle to keep the cork moist, which is ideal for longer-term storage.
- Vertical storage: Wine bottles stored upright, but this works best if you are planning for a smaller wine rack.
For a simple, effective design, horizontal storage tends to be the most popular, especially when you have limited space.
Step 3: Cut the Wood Pieces
Using the measurements from Step 1, cut your pieces of wood. You’ll need:
- Top and Bottom Panels: These will form the base and top of the rack.
- Side Panels: These will create the sides of the rack, giving it its structural integrity.
- Shelves: Cut enough shelves to hold your wine bottles. Make sure the shelves are spaced to fit the bottles, typically around 4-5 inches apart depending on bottle size.
- Back Panel (optional): A back panel will help give the rack stability.
Use a circular saw or hand saw to make these cuts. For a clean, straight cut, use a guide or clamp a straight edge along the cutting line.
Step 4: Assemble the Rack Structure
Once all the pieces are cut, it’s time to assemble them.
Attach the Side Panels: Start by attaching the side panels to the top and bottom panels using wood glue and screws. Make sure everything is square by using a level or a carpenter’s square.
Install the Shelves: Depending on your design, you can install the shelves either horizontally or at an angle. If you’re using dowels or pegs to secure the bottles, drill small holes on each side where the dowels will fit.
- For a basic horizontal rack, simply glue and screw the shelves into place on the side panels, ensuring even spacing between each.
- If using angled shelves, make sure each shelf is tilted slightly backward so that the wine bottles sit securely. You can use a protractor to maintain a consistent angle.
Back Panel (Optional): If you’re adding a back panel, attach it to the sides and shelves. This will add extra stability to the structure.
Step 5: Sand and Finish the Rack
Once your wine rack is assembled, use a sanding block or an electric sander to smooth out any rough edges and surfaces. Sanding is crucial for ensuring the wood has a polished, professional appearance.
After sanding, you can apply a wood finish or stain of your choice. This will enhance the look of the wood and protect it from moisture. Alternatively, you could paint the wine rack for a more modern look. Let the finish dry fully before proceeding.
Step 6: Install the Wine Rack Under the Counter
To install the wine rack under the counter, you’ll need to secure it to the underside of the counter using screws. For added stability, you can drill pilot holes through the top panel into the counter. Make sure the rack is level before securing it in place.
- Mark the spot: Use a pencil to mark where the screws will go.
- Drill pilot holes: To avoid splitting the wood, drill pilot holes in the marks you made.
- Screw the rack in: Use screws long enough to hold the rack securely, but not so long that they go through the counter.
Step 7: Final Touches
Once installed, check the stability of your wine rack and ensure the bottles fit comfortably. You can add extra design touches, such as decorative woodwork on the front or even a wood-carved label holder.
Tips and Considerations:
- Ventilation: Wine bottles benefit from some airflow, so avoid making the space too airtight. If possible, leave small gaps between the back panel and the wall or use open slats for airflow.
- Wood Selection: Choose hardwoods like oak or walnut for a more durable, long-lasting finish. Pine is a less expensive, softer option but may not hold up as well in the long term.
- Safety: If you’re unsure about using tools, consider seeking assistance or guidance from a more experienced woodworker. Always wear protective equipment like goggles and ear protection.
By following these steps, you’ll be able to create a functional and stylish wine rack that fits perfectly under your counter, allowing you to store your wine collection neatly and conveniently. Happy woodworking!
For more woodworking projects and detailed guides, check out Teds Woodworking Course here: Teds Woodworking Course