How to make a wooden plant stand with a mid-century design

Making a wooden plant stand with a mid-century design involves combining the elegance and simplicity of the mid-century modern style with the functionality of a plant holder. Mid-century design is known for its clean lines, organic shapes, and minimalist approach, making it perfect for a stylish and functional plant stand. Here’s how you can make your own:

Materials Needed:

• Wood (Oak, Walnut, or any hardwood with a clean grain)
• Wood glue
• Wood screws or nails
• Sandpaper (various grits)
• Wood stain or paint (optional)
• Varnish or polyurethane for finish
• Saw (Circular or Table saw)
• Drill and bits
• Measuring tape
• Miter saw (optional for precise angle cuts)
• Wood filler (if needed)
• Pencil and ruler

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Plan Your Design

The first step is to plan the dimensions of your plant stand. Mid-century modern plant stands are typically sleek and simple, often with a minimalistic frame. Common design features include:

• Tapered legs: These are a signature of mid-century modern furniture.
• Circular or square top: A simple, clean, and sturdy surface to hold your plant pot.

A common size for a plant stand might have a height of around 30 to 36 inches, and a top diameter of 10 to 14 inches if it’s round, or a similar size if it’s square. Adjust according to your plant pot size.

Step 2: Cut the Wood for the Legs

Mid-century modern designs often feature tapered, slightly angled legs. You can either buy pre-made tapered legs or make your own. If making your own, follow these steps:

1. Measure the length of your legs. Typically, mid-century plant stands have legs around 18-30 inches tall, depending on the overall size of the stand.
2. Cut the wood for the legs to the desired length using a saw.
3. If you want to taper the legs, you can either use a table saw or hand tools to gradually cut the wood to a slant from the top to the bottom. Alternatively, if you don’t have access to a table saw, you can cut the angles at the ends using a miter saw.
4. Sand the legs smooth to ensure a clean, polished finish.

Step 3: Cut the Top Piece

Next, you’ll cut the top of the stand. The top should be simple and stable, large enough to accommodate your plant pot.

1. Use your measuring tape to determine the size of the top. A round top can be made with a jigsaw or router, while a square top can be made from a rectangular piece of wood.
2. Cut the wood to size using a saw. If you’re creating a round top, you’ll need to carefully draw the circle with a pencil and then cut along the outline.

Step 4: Assemble the Legs and Top

Now, it’s time to assemble the pieces of your plant stand.

1. Attach the legs to the top piece: Start by marking where each leg will be placed on the underside of the top piece. For a more stable design, you can use four legs, placed at equal distances around the edge of the top. Make sure the legs are placed at a slight angle (about 5-10 degrees) for that mid-century flair.
2. Drill pilot holes for screws or nails to secure the legs. If you’re using wood glue, apply it to the top of the leg where it will meet the bottom of the top piece.
3. Screw or nail the legs into place. Ensure each leg is aligned properly.

Step 5: Sand and Smooth the Stand

Once your plant stand is assembled, it’s time to sand it for a smooth finish.

1. Begin sanding with a coarse grit to remove any rough spots, followed by finer grits until the surface is smooth and even.
2. Pay close attention to any edges or areas where glue may have seeped out.

Step 6: Apply Stain or Paint

To enhance the mid-century modern look, you can either stain or paint your wooden plant stand.

• Staining: Choose a wood stain in a rich, warm color like walnut or teak to bring out the natural wood grain.
• Painting: If you prefer a painted look, opt for muted colors like matte black, white, or muted green to stay in line with mid-century style.
• Apply the stain or paint with a brush, following the grain of the wood. Let the stand dry completely between coats.

Step 7: Finish with a Clear Coat

After staining or painting, protect your plant stand with a finish. A clear coat of polyurethane or varnish will give it durability and a glossy appearance.

• Apply the clear coat with a brush, following the grain of the wood.
• Let it dry and then lightly sand it before applying a second coat for a smooth finish.

Step 8: Final Touches

Once the finish has dried, give your plant stand a final inspection to ensure everything is smooth and secure. Add rubber pads to the bottom of the legs to protect your floors from scratches. Finally, place your favorite plant on top and enjoy your new mid-century modern plant stand!

Conclusion

This wooden plant stand is a great addition to any home, combining mid-century modern style with functionality. By following these steps, you’ll be able to create a sturdy, stylish plant stand that complements your interior decor. Whether you choose to finish it with a natural wood stain or a pop of color, it’s sure to bring an elegant touch to any room.

For more woodworking projects, consider checking out Ted’s Woodworking Course for comprehensive plans and tutorials to help you craft even more beautiful pieces. Click here to explore Ted’s Woodworking Course.