This project is by Tim Taguchi from Casual Builds. This DIY project is perfect for parents looking to create a safe and fun environment for their children in the kitchen.
A learning tower or kitchen helper is an excellent way to involve your little ones in cooking and other activities while keeping them safe. In this guide, we will walk through the process of creating an adjustable step stool that can be used by children to reach kitchen counters.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials and Tools
Before diving into the project, make sure you have all the necessary materials and tools. Here’s a brief list:
- 3/4 inch plywood
- 1/2 inch MDF (for template)
- Wood glue
- Pocket screws
- Blue tape
- Spar urethane (for finishing)
- Router with flush trim bit
- Jigsaw
- Circular saw
- Sanding sponge
Having the right tools will make the process smoother and yield better results. Ensure your workspace is organized and free of distractions.
Step 2: Create the Template
The first step in building your learning tower is to create a template for the side pieces. Tim used a CNC machine to cut out the side pieces from 1/2 inch MDF. If you don’t have access to a CNC, you can manually cut the shapes using a jigsaw.
Once you have your two side pieces cut out, transfer them to a 3/4 inch piece of plywood. This will serve as your final template. Lay the MDF pieces on the plywood, trace around them, and cut out the shapes with a jigsaw.
Step 3: Cut the Side Pieces
With your template ready, it’s time to cut the side pieces from the plywood. Start by rough cutting the plywood to size. Pay attention to the top veneer, as it can be thin and prone to tearing.
To minimize tear-out while cutting, use blue tape along the cutting line. This will help hold the veneer together as you make your cuts.
Step 4: Refine the Side Pieces
After rough cutting the side pieces, attach one piece to the template you made earlier. Use a router with a flush trim bit to ensure both side pieces are identical. This step is crucial for the stability of the learning tower.
Once the pieces are identical, round over any sharp edges for safety. This makes the structure smoother and safer for children.
Step 5: Cut the Dados
Next, it’s time to cut dados for the steps. You will need four dados in total: one for the bottom step and three adjustable ones for the top. To ensure precision, create a jig that clamps to the bottom of the side piece. This will help in cutting the dados evenly.
Run your router against the jig to create the dados. Be sure to check that the dados are the same depth and size on both side pieces.
Step 6: Prepare for Assembly
Before assembling the tower, you need to sand all the pieces. Sanding ensures that any rough edges are smoothed out, making it safe for children. Use a sanding sponge for corners and edges for better results.
Once sanding is complete, it’s time to assemble the tower. However, wait to cut the top and bottom steps until after assembly to ensure a snug fit.
Step 7: Assemble the Tower
For assembly, use pocket holes to attach the stretchers to the side pieces. This method provides a strong joint that will hold up under use.
To ensure everything is square and aligned correctly, place a piece of plywood on top while attaching the stretchers. This helps maintain a perfect 90-degree angle.
Step 8: Finalize the Steps
After the main structure is assembled, measure where the dados are to cut the top and bottom steps. This ensures they fit snugly in the dado slots.
Cut the steps to size and ensure they are securely placed in the dados. This will complete the main structure of your learning tower.
Step 9: Sanding and Finishing
After assembly, give the entire structure a final sanding to remove any imperfections. Use a sanding sponge again for those hard-to-reach areas.
For the finishing touch, apply spar urethane. This not only protects the wood but also enhances its appearance. Use a spray gun for an even application, applying three coats and lightly sanding between each coat for a smooth finish.
Step 10: Enjoy Your New Learning Tower!
Once the finishing is complete and dry, your kid’s kitchen step stool or learning tower is ready to use. This project not only helps your little one reach the kitchen counter but also encourages them to participate in cooking and other activities.