This project is by Humble Hands. This DIY pet bowl stand is not only a functional solution for your furry friend but also a stylish addition to your home decor.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to create a custom wood pet bowl stand that suits your needs and taste.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
Before starting your project, it’s essential to gather all the materials and tools you will need. Here’s a list of what you’ll require:
- Wood (4×1 and 2×1 pieces)
- Bowls (can be found at Dollar Tree)
- Pre-stain wood conditioner
- Wood stain (“Special Walnut”)
- Minwax spar urethane (finish)
- Band saw
- Drill press
- Jigsaw
- Sanding equipment
- Wood glue or screws (depending on preference)
Step 2: Measure and Cut the Wood
Start by measuring the length of your 4x1s for the top piece. Each piece should be about 18 inches long.
Next, cut a 2×1 piece for the front and back of the base. After cutting it to the correct length, use your band saw to cut this piece in half. Repeat this process for the sides of the base.
Now, it’s time to cut the legs. If you have a smaller dog, you may want to cut the legs to about 4 inches in height.
Step 3: Assemble the Top Piece
With all your pieces cut, you can now begin assembling the top piece. Start by gluing the pieces together. Make sure to allow the glue to dry adequately.
Once the glue has dried, take a hand planer to smooth the edges and give them a rounded look. This will enhance the overall appearance of your pet bowl stand.
Step 4: Sanding All Parts
Before assembling the base, it’s crucial to check that all pieces fit together properly. Once you’re satisfied with the fit, give all pieces a thorough sanding to ensure a smooth finish.
After sanding, proceed to glue the base together. Ensure that everything is aligned correctly before allowing the glue to dry.
Step 5: Prepare for the Bowls
Next, you’ll need to make cutouts for the bowls. Trace the inside of the base for reference points and outline where the bowls will sit. Remember, the lip of the bowl needs to hang over the cutting area, so measure the width of the lip accurately.
Using a compass, trace the inner circle where you’ll be cutting your holes. This will ensure that your bowls fit snugly into the stand.
Step 6: Cutting the Holes
With your outlines ready, use a drill press to create starter holes for your jigsaw. This will make cutting out the holes easier and more precise.
Now, carefully cut out the holes using your jigsaw. Take your time to ensure accuracy and a clean cut.
Step 7: Final Sanding and Staining
After cutting out the holes, give the piece a thorough sanding, focusing on the edges and the insides of the cuts. This step is crucial for achieving a professional finish.
Once you’re satisfied with the sanding, apply a pre-stain wood conditioner to the top piece. This will help achieve a more even stain application later on.
Step 8: Painting the Base
While the top piece is drying, it’s time to paint the base. An “eggshell white” color works well to complement the dark stain you’ll be applying to the top piece.
After the base is painted, you can move on to applying the wood stain to the top piece. You can use a clean cloth or a brush to apply the stain evenly.
Step 9: Applying the Finish
Once the stain has dried, apply a thin coat of water-based finish to protect the wood. After this finish has dried, give the piece a gentle sanding with 220 grit sandpaper to smooth out any imperfections.
Finally, apply a final coat of finish and allow everything to dry completely.
Step 10: Assemble the Stand
Once all the pieces have dried, it’s time to assemble your pet bowl stand. Simply glue the complete base to the top piece. Since the stand is lower to the ground and more stable, wood glue should suffice for holding it together.
If you prefer, you can also use screws for added stability, depending on the size of your holder.
Conclusion
Your modern DIY wood pet bowl stand is now complete! This project not only enhances your pet’s dining experience but also adds a touch of elegance to your home. Enjoy your new creation and the joy it brings to your furry friend!