Creating a wooden pet feeder with a storage compartment is a great woodworking project for both beginner and intermediate woodworkers. It’s practical and adds a personal touch to your pet’s feeding area while also providing extra storage space for pet food, toys, or other supplies. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make your own:
Materials You’ll Need:
- Wood (for structure and lid): Choose hardwood like pine, oak, or plywood for durability.
- Wood screws or nails
- Wood glue
- Hinges (for the lid)
- Paint or wood finish (optional, for aesthetics and protection)
- Measuring tape
- Saw (a circular saw or jigsaw works best)
- Drill and drill bits
- Sander or sandpaper
- Wood filler (optional, for any gaps)
- Pet bowls (typically 2-3, depending on your pet’s needs)
- Drawer pulls (optional, for the storage compartment)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Design and Measurements
- Begin by deciding the dimensions for the pet feeder. A standard height for a pet feeder is 12-16 inches, with a depth of about 12-16 inches depending on the size of your pet.
- The storage compartment can be placed beneath the feeding area. Make sure to leave enough space for your pet to comfortably access the food and water bowls.
- Measure the size of the pet bowls to ensure they fit snugly into the feeder.
2. Cut the Wood Pieces
- Top/Bottom Panels: Cut two rectangular pieces of wood for the top and bottom panels of the feeder.
- Side Panels: Cut two pieces for the long sides of the feeder.
- End Panels: Cut two shorter pieces for the end sides.
- Storage Compartment Panels: Cut additional pieces to create the storage compartment. These will include the back, front, and vertical dividers for the storage section.
- Bowls Cutouts: On the top panel, measure and mark out circles or square openings that match the size of your pet bowls.
3. Assemble the Frame
- Start by attaching the side panels to the bottom panel using wood screws or nails and wood glue. Ensure that everything is square as you go along, using a carpenter’s square for precision.
- Next, attach the end panels to complete the outer frame of the feeder.
- If you are adding a storage compartment, install the internal dividers inside the frame to separate the space.
4. Install the Pet Bowls
- Place the bowls into the top panel and trace around them. Use a jigsaw or hole saw to cut out the openings for the bowls.
- Sand the edges of the holes to ensure they are smooth.
- Secure the bowls in place with the appropriate method (e.g., using wood strips to hold them or leaving them removable).
5. Create the Storage Compartment Lid
- Cut a rectangular piece of wood to fit over the storage compartment. This will serve as the lid.
- Attach hinges to the back of the lid and the back panel of the storage compartment. This will allow easy access to the storage area.
- Optionally, install a small pull handle on the front of the lid to make it easier to open.
6. Finishing Touches
- Sand all surfaces to remove rough edges and ensure the entire structure is smooth.
- Apply wood filler to any screw holes or imperfections, and sand them smooth once dried.
- Optionally, you can paint or stain the feeder for added aesthetic appeal and to protect the wood. Use a non-toxic paint or finish to ensure safety for your pet.
7. Assembly and Final Setup
- Attach the top panel with bowls and the storage compartment to the rest of the structure.
- Secure the storage compartment lid with the hinges and attach a drawer pull if desired.
- Place the pet bowls into the feeder, add your pet’s food and water, and store any extra supplies in the compartment.
Tips:
- Customization: You can personalize the design by adding your pet’s name, decorative elements, or unique finishes.
- Height Adjustments: If you want to make it more comfortable for your pet, especially larger dogs, you can elevate the feeder by adding wooden legs.
- Cleaning: Ensure all materials used are easy to clean and safe for pets.
This pet feeder with a storage compartment will not only serve as a functional addition to your pet’s eating area but will also help you keep pet food and accessories organized.
For more detailed woodworking projects, you can check out Ted’s Woodworking Course, which has thousands of plans for DIY projects like this one! Visit the link here.
Leave a Reply