How to make a wooden toy storage shelf with clear bins

Creating a wooden toy storage shelf with clear bins is a practical and stylish solution for organizing toys while keeping them easily accessible. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make your own:

Materials:

• Wooden boards (e.g., pine or plywood)
• Clear plastic bins (size according to your needs, typically 12″x12″x12″ for standard bins)
• Wood screws
• Wood glue
• Wood finish or paint (optional)
• Sanding block
• Measuring tape
• Circular saw or handsaw
• Power drill
• Clamps
• Level

Instructions:

Step 1: Plan and Measure

1. Determine the size of the shelf. Measure the width and height of your space and how many bins you plan to store. A good size for a basic shelf might be around 36 inches wide, 24 inches tall, and 12 inches deep.
2. Measure the bins. Ensure the openings are slightly larger than the width and depth of the clear bins you want to use to make them easy to slide in and out.

Step 2: Cut the Wood

1. Cut the sides of the shelf. Using your saw, cut two pieces of wood for the sides of the shelf. These should be the height of the shelf (e.g., 24 inches).
2. Cut the top and bottom pieces. Cut two pieces of wood for the top and bottom. These should be the width of your shelf (e.g., 36 inches).
3. Cut the middle shelves. If you plan to have multiple shelves to separate the bins, cut two more pieces to the same width as the top/bottom pieces.
4. Cut dividers (optional). If you want the shelf to have multiple compartments, cut pieces for dividers. These can be the same height as the sides or shorter, depending on your design.

Step 3: Assemble the Frame

1. Attach the sides to the top and bottom pieces. Use wood screws or wood glue to attach the side pieces to the top and bottom pieces. If you’re using screws, drill pilot holes first to prevent the wood from splitting.
2. Add the middle shelves. Attach the middle shelves at your desired height to divide the space for the bins.
3. Ensure everything is level. Use a level to make sure your shelves are even.

Step 4: Add the Dividers (Optional)

1. If you are using dividers, place them evenly between the shelves. Attach them to the sides and middle shelves using screws or wood glue.

Step 5: Sand and Finish

1. Sand the wood to smooth out any rough edges or surfaces.
2. Apply a finish. You can paint or stain the wood to match the decor of the room or leave it natural for a more rustic look. Allow it to dry fully.

Step 6: Place the Bins

1. Once the shelf is dry and finished, place the clear bins on the shelf. The bins should fit easily into each compartment and slide in and out with ease.
2. Label or color-code the bins to make it easy for kids (or adults) to find and return toys.

Step 7: Secure the Shelf (Optional)

1. For added safety, especially if the shelf will be used in a room with children, attach the shelf to the wall using L-brackets to prevent tipping.

Now you have a functional and customizable wooden toy storage shelf with clear bins, perfect for keeping toys organized and accessible!