Saturday, April 13, 2013

$10 DIY Throw Ladder



What have I found to be the best part of being a home-owner?  Knowing that there is no rush to get projects done, because no matter how hard we work, there will always be another project waiting for us when we finish.  
Being a new homeowner, I've had SO many craft ideas running through my mind.  Unfortunately, other projects kept taking precedence and I was denying myself my therapy -- errr... craft time.  For 4 months, I had a laundry basket sitting in the corner of the room to store blankets and to "fill up space".  I was inspired by Pottery Barn decor (link here) to create a ladder to hold throw blankets. But was definitely not inspired by the pricetag of $179.
So how can you make one yourself for 5% of the cost?  You'll need the following supplies:

  • 2 - 2x2s ($2 each)
  • 2 - 1" dowel rods ($2 each)
  • Saw
  • Drill
  • Screws
  • Paint of your choice (I used a sample-sized wood stain for $3)
Step 1: Measure your dowel rods (mine was 48") and mark the rod at both 1/3 and 2/3 of the total length.
Step 2: Saw through dowel rods at marked areas.
Step 3: Paint dowel rods,  2x2s, and top of screws with paint of your choice.
Step 4: Measure total length of your 2x2s and divide by the amount of rungs you would like to use +1 
e.g. 78" in length/(5 rungs+1)=13"
Step 5: Line up your dowel rod perpendicular to the 2x2 the appropriate distance from the end of the 2x2 (e.g. 13").
Step 6: Using a drill-bit, drill through the 2x2 into the dowel rod (from the outside in).  Next, use the drill to place screws into the 2x2, holding the dowel in place.
Step 7: Repeat on all dowel rods, and again on the other 2x2, connecting all pieces of the ladder.
Step 8: Find a cute location and enjoy!

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