Making a wooden toy storage bench with a soft-close lid is a great project! Below is a step-by-step guide to help you build one:
Materials Needed:
- Wooden boards (e.g., pine, plywood, or MDF)
- For the sides, bottom, and lid of the bench
- Soft-close hinges (these come in a variety of sizes based on the lid weight)
- Wood screws (for assembling the frame)
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper (for smoothing edges)
- Wood finish or paint (optional)
- Piano hinge or lid support arm (optional for extra stability)
- Measuring tape, saw, drill, screwdriver, and clamps (for assembly)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Measure and Cut the Wood
- Start by determining the size of your bench based on the space where it will sit. A typical size could be about 40 inches long, 18 inches deep, and 18 inches tall.
- Cut the wood pieces for the sides, bottom, and lid:
- 2 side pieces: 18 inches x 18 inches
- 1 front piece: 40 inches x 18 inches
- 1 back piece: 40 inches x 18 inches
- 1 bottom piece: 40 inches x 18 inches
- 1 lid: 40 inches x 18 inches (or the desired size)
2. Assemble the Frame
- Use wood glue and screws to attach the front, back, and side pieces to form a box. The front and back should be flush with the sides, ensuring it’s square.
- Attach the bottom piece to the frame, making sure it is centered and flush with the edges. Use clamps to hold everything in place before screwing it down.
3. Attach the Soft-Close Hinges
- Place the soft-close hinges on the back edge of the bench’s top and the lid. Soft-close hinges are designed to prevent the lid from slamming shut, making them ideal for a toy storage bench.
- Follow the hinge manufacturer’s instructions for installation, as they can vary. Typically, soft-close hinges will need to be drilled into the lid and the bench frame.
- Ensure the lid is perfectly aligned with the bench and that the soft-close mechanism works smoothly.
4. Install a Lid Support Arm (Optional)
- If you want the lid to stay open when lifted, install a lid support arm. This can be a gas lift or a more traditional wooden support that keeps the lid in place. These can be installed on either side of the bench and will allow for controlled opening and closing.
5. Sand the Edges
- Use sandpaper to smooth any rough edges on the wooden parts of the bench. This is especially important on the lid, where kids will likely touch and handle it.
6. Finish the Wood
- Apply your desired finish to the bench. You can either stain it for a natural look or paint it for a more vibrant appearance.
- Make sure the finish is child-safe if you plan to store toys in it.
7. Final Assembly
- Once the finish has dried, install the lid onto the frame by securing it with the soft-close hinges. Check to ensure the lid closes smoothly and quietly.
Additional Tips:
- Ventilation: Consider adding some small holes on the sides or back of the bench for ventilation. This helps prevent musty smells if toys are stored inside for a long time.
- Safety: If you have young children, be sure the edges are properly sanded and rounded to avoid any sharp corners.
- Decorative Touches: You can personalize the bench by adding handles, painting fun designs, or adding stenciled letters with your child’s name.
Enjoy your new wooden toy storage bench with a soft-close lid! It’s both functional and safe for kids, making it a great addition to any playroom or bedroom.