This project was built and designed by Jon Peters from Longview Woodworking. It’s a practical shoe rack made from leftover plywood and 2x4s—perfect for storing work shoes or boots in garages, barns, or workshops.
The focus of this project is on functionality, not fine furniture. Jon’s straightforward design keeps materials affordable and build time minimal, making this a great project for beginners or anyone looking for a durable solution to messy footwear.
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A Utility-Focused Approach to Storage
Jon designed this shoe rack with real-world use in mind. Whether it’s muddy boots, dusty shoes, or work footwear that needs a home, this rack helps keep them off the floor and organized.
Rather than decorative touches, the emphasis is on sturdy construction using scrap wood. This not only keeps costs down but also puts leftover material to good use—a win for budget and sustainability.
Basic Materials and Prep Work
The entire project can be built using common materials. Jon uses a sheet of plywood and a few lengths of 2×4 lumber. The plywood is used for the shelves and back panel, while the 2x4s serve as cleats and front stops for each shelf.
The first step is cleaning up the plywood edges and ripping strips to form the cleats. These cleats are cut with a 30-degree bevel, which will later allow the shelves to nest into them securely.
Building with Angled Joinery
A unique aspect of this design is the angled cleat system. Each shelf and cleat is cut at 30 degrees so they lock together when assembled. This setup provides strength without requiring glue or screws to hold the shelves in place.
Jon attaches the cleats to the back panel at even intervals, spacing them out to accommodate the size of typical work boots. The shelves are test-fit and trimmed for a tight, wobble-free fit before being nailed into place.
Adding Front Stops
To prevent boots from sliding off, Jon installs front stops using ripped 2x4s. These strips are attached along the front edge of each shelf and secured with screws and nails.
This small addition adds a lot of functionality, especially for heavy work shoes. Even when the rack is placed in a workshop or barn with uneven floors, the stops keep footwear securely in place.
Assembly Overview
While exact dimensions aren’t critical, the assembly process follows a clear and repeatable sequence:
- Back panel: Trimmed to size and used as the anchor for the entire structure.
- Cleats: Cut with a 30-degree bevel and spaced vertically along the panel.
- Shelves: Cut slightly oversized, test-fit, then trimmed for a snug angle-to-angle fit.
- Front stops: Ripped from 2x4s and screwed to each shelf.
- Side panels (optional): Added if more stability or enclosure is desired.
This build comes together quickly and can easily be adapted for different shelf counts or boot sizes.
Customization and Upgrades
Jon’s version is built for toughness, but the design is easy to customize:
- Use hardwood or Baltic birch for a cleaner, more refined look.
- Add side panels for a more finished appearance and added strength.
- Apply a protective finish like polyurethane, stain, or paint.
- Make shelf heights adjustable by modifying the cleat system.
- Add small cubbies or hooks on the sides for gloves or boot dryers.
These options allow the same basic structure to serve a variety of storage needs in different spaces.
Built for Work Shoes, Not Showrooms
This rack was made for boots that get dirty. The angled shelves keep footwear off the floor, promoting airflow and faster drying. Front stops hold everything in place even when shelves are fully loaded.
Because the joinery doesn’t require advanced tools, the project is ideal for weekend woodworkers or anyone needing a quick storage upgrade. It’s also a good chance to practice cutting bevels and working with sheet goods.
A Smart Use of Scrap
Jon emphasizes the benefit of using leftover materials to reduce waste. Plywood offcuts and 2×4 scraps that might otherwise go unused become part of a functional shop upgrade.
The rack can also be scaled up or down depending on your needs. Want more shelves? Just add cleats. Have a narrow space? Trim the width. The flexible design makes it a reliable, repeatable build.
Functional, Fast, and Worth Building
This is the kind of project that solves a common problem without overcomplicating the solution. With just a few boards and a couple hours in the shop, you’ll end up with something that helps keep your workspace cleaner and more efficient.
Jon’s walkthrough shows how basic tools and a practical mindset can deliver solid results. For anyone looking to organize their boots or tidy up a barn, this is a great place to start.
Support Jon by visiting his website: https://jonpeters.com/collections/plans/.