If you’re looking for fun and practical woodworking projects to create, Anika from Anika’s DIY Life has you covered! She’s sharing five easy DIY gift ideas that you can build quickly, some even in under an hour.
Materials and Tools Needed
- Mahogany wood for the cutting board stand
- Various dimensions of lumber for the toddler book wagon
- 1×8 boards for the book stand
- Plywood for the phone amplifier
- Wood glue
- Wood screws
- Paint and primer for finishing
- Sandpaper (various grits)
- Jigsaw
- Circular saw
- Drill
- Router
- Clamps
- Paintbrush and roller
- Measuring tape
- Pencil for marking
Step 1: Build a Cutting Board Stand
Start by creating a beautiful cutting board stand. This project not only displays cutting boards beautifully but also solves the problem of accessing them easily.
For this project, Anika uses mahogany. The stand consists of a base and four dividers. To add a curved detail to the dividers, she marks an inch up on the side and uses painter’s tape to guide her jigsaw cuts.
After cutting the dividers, use sandpaper to smooth out any uneven edges. Assemble the stand using wood glue and countersinking screws, ensuring the screws are below the surface.
Finish with an oil-based finish to enhance the rich color of the mahogany.
Step 2: Create a Toddler Book Wagon
This toddler book wagon is perfect for kids to store and transport their favorite books.
For the sides, cut them into a triangular shape with a rounded top. Anika uses a stain can to trace the rounded edges. Once both sides are cut, sand them down to a smooth finish.
Assemble the wagon using pocket hole screws, ensuring to fill any visible holes for a clean finish. Once assembled, paint it in a fun color and add casters for easy movement.
Step 3: Make a Book Stand
This book stand is perfect for holding cookbooks or coffee table books open for display.
Using 1×8 boards, create slots that fit together at a 45-degree angle. Anika recommends using a circular saw for this step.
Once the pieces are cut, sand them down and apply a finish. This stand can be stored flat when not in use, making it easy to wrap as a gift.
Step 4: Build a Passive Phone Amplifier
This unique phone amplifier is a great way to enhance sound without electronics.
Constructed from layers of plywood, the amplifier will have varying openings to channel sound effectively. Cut the pieces to size and mark where the phone will fit.
Assemble the layers with wood glue and allow them to dry overnight. Sand the edges to make them smooth and finish with a wood oil.
Step 5: Create a Rotating Picture Frame
A rotating picture frame is a thoughtful gift that allows for easy picture swapping.
Use 1×2 boards to create the frame and cut grooves for the plexiglass to slide in. Ensure all measurements are precise for a clean fit.
Assemble the frame with wood glue, making sure it is square. Add dowels for the rotating mechanism and finish with a stain or paint.
And there you have it! Five easy DIY woodworking projects that make perfect gifts. With detailed instructions and a bit of creativity, anyone can create these unique items.
Here are the plans for each:
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