This project is by Erin Spain, who has created a simple yet elegant DIY magazine holder that is perfect for beginner woodworkers.
With minimal tools required and easy-to-follow steps, this project allows you to add a personal touch to your home decor while keeping your magazines organized.
Step 1: Gather Your Supplies
Before you start building your magazine holder, make sure you have all the necessary supplies on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1×6 Board
- 1/2″ Dowel Rods
- Speed Square
- Wood Glue
- Drill
- 1/2″ Spade Bit and/or 1/2″ Forstner Bit
- Sander
- Brad Nailer
- 1 1/2″ Brad Nails
- Mallet or Hammer
- Pull Saw
- Paint/Stain/Finish of Your Choice
- Squeeze Clamp
With these tools and materials ready, you can start your woodworking project with confidence!
Step 2: Cut the Wood
Begin by cutting your 1×6 board into three pieces. You’ll need two pieces that are 12 inches long each for the sides and one piece that is 14 inches long for the bottom. Use a miter saw for precise cuts.
After cutting, sand all the pieces smooth with an orbital sander. This will ensure that your magazine holder has a clean and polished finish.
Step 3: Mark and Drill Holes
Next, it’s time to mark where the dowel holes will go. Take each of the 12-inch side pieces and measure 1.5 inches from the bottom to start. Use a pencil to trace the outline of the dowel, ensuring it is 1/8 inch from the side edge. Then, continue marking holes every 0.5 inches up the side.
Once you have all your marks, clamp both pieces together with a squeeze clamp. This will allow you to drill the holes simultaneously for uniformity.
Step 4: Drill the Holes
Using a drill, carefully drill out the marked holes. To reduce tear-out, consider adding painter’s tape to the back of the pieces. You can use either a Forstner bit or a spade bit. The Forstner bit creates a clean hole, and the spade bit can help slightly enlarge it for a smoother dowel insertion.
This process may be repetitive, but it is crucial for ensuring that your dowels fit correctly.
Step 5: Assemble the Holder
With the holes drilled, it’s time to assemble the magazine holder. Attach the two side pieces to the bottom piece using wood glue and a brad nailer. For easier access, pour the glue onto a paper plate and apply it with a silicone glue brush.
Make sure to use a speed square to keep everything aligned and square while attaching the pieces. This ensures a sturdy and even structure.
Step 6: Cut and Insert the Dowels
While the glue is drying, cut 22 dowel pieces to 16 inches long using your miter saw. Cutting them slightly longer allows for adjustments later. Once cut, begin inserting the dowels through the holes you’ve drilled.
The dowels should fit snugly, so you may not need additional wood glue, but you can use it for extra reinforcement if desired. Use a mallet to ensure the dowels are fully inserted.
Step 7: Trim Excess Dowel
After inserting all the dowels, trim any excess length using a pull saw. You can choose to trim them as you go or wait until all have been inserted, as this can be more efficient.
Step 8: Final Touches
Once all the dowels are in place, sand any rough edges to ensure a smooth finish. You can choose to leave the magazine holder natural or apply a finish. Erin opted for a polycrylic topcoat in a satin finish, which enhances the natural wood while providing protection.
Step 9: Enjoy Your New Magazine Holder
Congratulations! You’ve successfully built a DIY magazine holder. This project is not only functional but also a great way to showcase your woodworking skills. Place it in your living room or home office to keep your magazines organized and accessible.
Conclusion
This easy DIY magazine holder project is perfect for beginners looking to enhance their woodworking skills. It requires minimal tools and materials, and the steps are straightforward and easy to follow. If you enjoyed this project, consider subscribing to Erin Spain’s channel for more DIY ideas and tutorials.