Building a wooden laundry hamper with a lid is a practical and fun woodworking project. It requires basic woodworking skills and tools. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a simple yet sturdy wooden laundry hamper with a lid.
Materials You’ll Need:
- 1×4 boards for the frame
- Plywood (for the sides and bottom)
- Hinges for the lid
- Wooden dowels or slats for the front (optional)
- Wood screws
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper
- Wood finish or paint (optional)
- Measuring tape
- Saw (miter saw or hand saw)
- Drill with bits (for screws and hinge installation)
- Wood filler (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Design and Measurements:
First, determine the dimensions of your laundry hamper. A typical size might be around 24” high, 18” wide, and 18” deep. The lid should overlap slightly for a good seal.
- Frame: 4 pieces of 1×4 lumber, two at 24” (height) and two at 18” (width).
- Side panels: Cut plywood to fit the height and width, typically 24” x 18” for each side panel.
- Bottom panel: A piece of plywood to fit inside the base (around 18” x 18” depending on your frame).
- Lid: A plywood piece cut to 18” x 18”.
2. Cut the Pieces:
Using a saw, cut the 1×4 lumber to the correct lengths for the frame and the plywood to the sizes you’ve measured. Double-check that all pieces are accurately cut.
3. Assemble the Frame:
Begin by assembling the basic frame of the hamper. Use wood glue and screws to attach the four vertical frame pieces to form a rectangular shape. Make sure the corners are square.
- Attach the shorter pieces (18”) to the longer ones (24”) to form the sides and front/back of the frame.
- Drill pilot holes for the screws to prevent splitting the wood, and then screw the frame together.
4. Attach the Side Panels:
Once the frame is complete, attach the plywood side panels to the inside of the frame using wood glue and screws. Ensure the panels are flush with the edges of the frame and evenly spaced.
5. Install the Bottom Panel:
Place the plywood bottom panel inside the frame, ensuring it fits snugly. Secure it in place with wood screws, making sure to drill pilot holes first.
6. Prepare the Lid:
Take the plywood piece you cut for the lid (18” x 18”) and sand the edges to smooth them out. You can add a small decorative trim if desired for a more finished look.
7. Attach the Hinges:
- Position the lid on the top of the hamper and attach the hinges to the back edge. Mark where the hinges will go, then drill holes for the screws.
- Secure the hinges on the back of the lid and the back of the hamper frame.
8. Install a Catch or Latch (Optional):
If you want the lid to stay closed when not in use, you can install a simple latch or a magnetic catch at the front to hold the lid in place.
9. Finishing Touches:
Sand all surfaces to remove any rough edges. If you want a smooth finish, apply a wood filler to any screw holes and sand them after they dry. Once the wood is smooth, apply a finish such as wood stain, varnish, or paint to protect and enhance the wood.
- Let the finish dry completely before using the hamper.
10. Optional Front Slats:
If you want a more decorative touch, you can add slats or dowels to the front of the hamper. Space them evenly and attach them using wood glue or small nails.
Tips:
- Staining vs. Painting: If you want a natural wood look, staining is a great option. However, if you prefer a pop of color, consider painting the wood with a durable, water-resistant paint.
- Ventilation: If you’d like to add ventilation for the laundry, you can drill small holes or leave gaps between the slats on the front panel.
This wooden laundry hamper with a lid will not only look stylish in your home but also serve a functional purpose. Enjoy your woodworking project!
For detailed plans and additional tips on woodworking, check out Teds Woodworking Course here.