A wooden soap holder with slatted drainage is an excellent project for beginner woodworkers and a functional addition to any bathroom or kitchen. The slats allow water to drain off the soap, helping it stay dry and last longer. Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a wooden soap holder with slatted drainage:
Materials Needed:
- Wood (a durable hardwood like maple, oak, or walnut works best)
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Pencil for marking
- Saw (hand saw or table saw)
- Sandpaper (fine-grit)
- Wood glue
- Wood finish or oil (optional for protection)
- Clamps (optional)
- Drill with small bits (for drainage holes)
- Screws (optional for extra durability)
Step 1: Measure and Plan the Design
Before cutting the wood, decide on the size and design of the soap holder. A typical soap holder is about 4 inches wide and 5–6 inches long, but you can adjust these measurements based on your preference.
- Base: This piece should be large enough to support the soap. A 5×6-inch base is a good starting point.
- Slats: The slats will sit on top of the base. They should be spaced about 1/4 inch apart to allow for drainage.
- Side walls (optional): If you’d like to have side walls around the soap holder to contain it, make sure the pieces are cut to the height you desire.
Step 2: Cutting the Wood Pieces
Once you’ve decided on your measurements, use your saw to cut the following pieces:
- Base: Cut a rectangle for the base, typically 5×6 inches, depending on your design.
- Slats: Cut several slats, each about 1/4 to 1/2 inch wide. The number of slats you need will depend on the width of the base. For a 5-inch base, cutting 4-5 slats should be sufficient.
- Side Walls (optional): Cut two pieces for the side walls, each about 5 inches long and 1–2 inches high, depending on how high you want the walls.
Step 3: Sanding the Edges
Smooth all the cut edges and surfaces using fine-grit sandpaper. This will help eliminate splinters and give your soap holder a polished look. Be sure to sand the ends of the slats and the base to prevent rough edges.
Step 4: Create Drainage Holes (Optional)
For added drainage, you can drill small holes into the base of the soap holder. Use a small drill bit and space the holes out evenly. This step isn’t necessary if you’re using slats for drainage, but it can enhance the soap holder’s drainage capabilities.
Step 5: Assembling the Holder
Start by attaching the slats to the base. You can either glue the slats down or, for a more secure hold, screw them in place.
- Gluing: Apply a small amount of wood glue to the edges of each slat and position them evenly on the base. Use clamps to hold them in place while the glue dries. Wipe away any excess glue before it hardens.
- Screwing: If you’re using screws for extra durability, drill small pilot holes through the slats and into the base. Be sure to countersink the screws slightly so they don’t protrude above the slats.
If you’re adding side walls, glue or screw these into the edges of the base, ensuring they align correctly. You can secure them with clamps while the glue dries.
Step 6: Finishing the Soap Holder
Once the glue has dried, give your soap holder another light sanding to smooth out any excess glue or rough spots. After sanding, you can apply a wood finish or oil to protect the wood from water and soap residue. A food-safe finish is recommended if the soap holder will be in regular contact with soap.
Step 7: Let It Dry and Use
Allow the finish to dry completely before using your soap holder. Once dried, place it in your bathroom or kitchen and enjoy your handmade, functional soap holder with drainage!
By following these steps, you’ll have a durable and attractive soap holder with slatted drainage that keeps your soap dry and ready for use. It’s an easy woodworking project that combines both form and function.
If you’re looking to enhance your woodworking skills, check out Teds Woodworking Course here for comprehensive plans and step-by-step instructions on building even more projects.