For those looking to create a stylish and functional outdoor accessory, DIY Pete has created a fantastic tutorial on building a cedar ice chest. Whether it’s for a barbecue, a wedding, or just a relaxing day outside, this ice chest will surely impress your guests.
Materials and Tools Needed
- Materials:
- Cedar 2x4s
- 6 ft fence pickets
- 52 Quart Cooler
- Hinges
- Handles
- Bottle opener
- Wheels (optional)
- Spigot with attachments
- Wood glue
- Tools:
- Drill with bits
- Speed square
- Tape measure
- Kreg jig (optional)
- Circular saw or miter saw
- Table saw (for ripping fence pickets)
- Orbital sander
Step 1: Prepare the Cooler
Start by removing the handles and drain plug from the cooler. Also, take off any other hardware like straps and hinges on the back of the cooler.
Step 2: Cut the Legs
Using a miter saw or circular saw, cut the legs down to size. Remember to always measure twice and cut once!
Step 3: Attach the Legs
For each corner, attach the 2x4s together to form an L shape. Use a pocket hole jig to hide the screw holes, or simply pre-drill if you don’t have a jig. Drill about four pocket holes in each leg and connect them using 2½ inch exterior grade screws and wood glue.
Step 4: Build the Frame
Measure the perimeter of your cooler to determine how long to cut the boards for the frame. Cut the boards down to size and drill pocket holes at the ends of the shorter boards. Attach them with wood glue and 2½ inch screws. Once the frame is assembled, attach the legs from the inside.
Step 5: Add Cooler Supports
Rip the fence pickets down to size for the top of the ice chest. Apply wood glue around the perimeter of the base and attach using an air nailer or hammer and nails.
Step 6: Attach the Siding
Measure and cut the cedar siding to fit around the cooler. Use full-width pickets for the center and rip the outer boards to fit. Attach using an air nailer or hammer and nails.
Step 7: Create the Spigot Hole
Mark where you’ll need to drill a hole in the wood for the spigot and piping. Drill a small pilot hole from the inside first, then use a larger bit or hole saw from the outside.
Step 8: Install the Spigot
Secure the spigot and piping, using Teflon tape on the threads. Ensure everything is tight and fits properly.
Step 9: Build the Lid Frame
Measure the top of the cooler and cut 2x4s to create a frame for the lid. Test fit the lid to ensure it sits snugly and attach using pocket holes.
Step 10: Attach the Lid
Once the lid frame is built, cut additional pickets for the top of the lid. Space them evenly and attach using nails. Add hinges to the back side of the lid.
Step 11: Final Assembly
Attach locking caster wheels to the legs for easy movement. Sand the surfaces and apply a clear exterior-grade sealer like Minwax Helmsman Spar Urethane.
Step 12: Add Finishing Touches
Attach handles, a bottle opener, and any other accessories to personalize your ice chest. Your cedar ice chest is now ready to keep your drinks cold!
Enjoy Your New Cedar Ice Chest!
Now that your ice chest is complete, fill it up with ice and drinks, and enjoy it!