In this detailed guide, Specific Love Creations shares a fantastic project to build a wooden utility cart for under $30. This project is perfect for anyone looking to add some functional storage to their garage, workshop, or even for gardening. With a few simple materials and tools, you can create a cart that will serve multiple purposes.
Materials Needed:
- 5 standard 2x4s
- 1 movers dolly
- Wood glue
- Brad nails
- Sandpaper
- White lithium grease (for casters)
Tools Required:
- Table saw
- Miter saw
- Brad nailer
- Plastic sheeting (to protect surfaces)
Step 1: Selecting and Preparing the Wood
To start, the creator selects the straightest 2×4 from their pile, aiming for minimal knots. They then proceed to the table saw where they rip down as many half-inch strips as possible. After ripping, they end up with five half-inch thick strips and one slightly thinner strip.
Step 2: Constructing the Legs
The legs are designed to be about 30 inches tall. The creator assembles the strips in an L shape for added strength. Using a miter saw, they cut the strips to size and sand the edges to prevent splinters.
Step 3: Building the Tray Frames
The width of the cart is set to about two feet, and the length to three feet. The creator cuts two strips at 23 inches and two at 35 inches to construct the tray frames. They glue and nail the pieces together, ensuring everything is square.
Step 4: Adding Ledges to the Trays
To prevent items from rolling off, the creator decides to add a lip around each tray. They end up building a total of six trays for the cart.
Step 5: Assembling the Cart
With the legs and tray frames ready, the creator assembles the cart on a flat surface, using plastic sheeting to protect it. They add solid pieces of wood at the seams for additional strength.
Step 6: Creating the Shelves
Instead of plywood, the creator opts to cut down more 2x4s into quarter-inch thick strips for the shelves. They ensure to leave some space for wood movement and add a center support for extra strength.
Step 7: Completing the Shelves
The creator completes the bottom shelf and repeats the same process for the middle and top shelves. Additional support is added under each corner of the trays for stability.
Step 8: Adding a Handle
To enhance usability, a handle is added to the end of the cart using leftover scrap wood. This allows for easier maneuvering.
Step 9: Installing Casters
The creator salvages heavy-duty casters from an old dolly, ensuring they are positioned correctly to avoid overhang. They use white lithium grease to lubricate the casters for smooth operation.
Step 10: Final Touches
To make the cart visually appealing, the creator paints the vertical legs and handle black while leaving the rest natural. This adds a stylish touch to the cart.
Conclusion
The utility cart is now complete and ready for use! With a total cost of under $30, it’s a practical addition to any space.