Malaysian self-taught DIYer on how to build a lasting shoe rack


Are you tired of buying things that don’t last? Something as simple as a shoe rack that keeps falling apart after just a few months can be frustrating. The shoes end up scattered on the floor, becoming an eyesore at the front of the house. Why not DIY your own shoe rack, customised to fit the exact space and size you need, and built to last?

A shoe rack is often the first piece of furniture people notice when they walk into your home. It’s more than just a place to store shoes – it’s an opportunity to make a statement.

Greet your guests to your home with a handmade shoe rack that is not only functional but a beautiful piece you crafted yourself. It’s a conversation starter that adds personality to your space.

This DIY project allows you to create a sturdy, long-lasting shoe rack that fits your style and space perfectly. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of saying, “I made this!” every time someone compliments your work. Let’s create a practical yet stylish shoe rack that’s uniquely yours!

PROJECT - DIY Shoe Rack

Materials

4 pieces of 15cm x 60cm wood

4 pieces of 5cm x 40cm wood

4 pieces of 5cm x 32cm wood

Tools

Ruler

Drill driver

Sander

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

Mask

Goggles

1. You’ll need four pieces of wood measuring 15cm x 60cm for the shelves, 4 pieces of 5cm x 40cm for the legs, and 4 pieces of 5cm x 32cm for the braces.

You’ll need four pieces of wood measuring 15cm x 60cm for the shelves, 4 pieces of 5cm x 40cm for the legs, and 4 pieces of 5cm x 32cm for the braces.You’ll need four pieces of wood measuring 15cm x 60cm for the shelves, 4 pieces of 5cm x 40cm for the legs, and 4 pieces of 5cm x 32cm for the braces.

2. For two of the 15cm x 60cm pieces, draw a 2.5cm line on both short sides, marking points at 1.5cm, 7.5cm and 13.5cm along the line.

For two of the 15cm x 60cm pieces, draw a 2.5cm line on both short sides, marking points at 1.5cm, 7.5cm and 13.5cm along the line.For two of the 15cm x 60cm pieces, draw a 2.5cm line on both short sides, marking points at 1.5cm, 7.5cm and 13.5cm along the line.

3. For two pieces of the 5cm x 32cm braces, draw a centre line and mark points at 1.5cm, 10cm, 22cm and 30.5cm along the line.

For the two pieces of the 5cm x 32cm braces, draw a centre line and mark points at 1.5cm, 10cm, 22cm and 30.5cm along the line.For the two pieces of the 5cm x 32cm braces, draw a centre line and mark points at 1.5cm, 10cm, 22cm and 30.5cm along the line.

4. On the four leg pieces, mark two lines from the top at 8mm and 25.5cm, with two points at 1cm and 4cm on each line.

On the four leg pieces, mark two lines from the top at 8mm and 25.5cm, with two points at 1cm and 4cm on each line.On the four leg pieces, mark two lines from the top at 8mm and 25.5cm, with two points at 1cm and 4cm on each line.

5. Use a drill to create pilot holes on all the marked points across the pieces.

Use a drill to create pilot holes on all the marked points across the pieces.Use a drill to create pilot holes on all the marked points across the pieces.

6. Attach the two marked 15cm x 60cm shelf pieces to the 5cm x 32cm braces without holes.

Attach the two marked 15cm x 60cm shelf pieces to the 5cm x 32cm braces without holes.Attach the two marked 15cm x 60cm shelf pieces to the 5cm x 32cm braces without holes.

7. Attach the two marked 5cm x 32cm braces to the 15cm x 60cm shelves without holes.

Attach the two marked 5cm x 32cm braces to the 15cm x 60cm shelves without holes.Attach the two marked 5cm x 32cm braces to the 15cm x 60cm shelves without holes.

8. On the side of the four leg pieces, draw a line at 23cm from the top, and align to the top of the bottom shelf.

On the side of the four leg pieces, draw a line at 23cm from the top, and align to the top of the bottom shelf.On the side of the four leg pieces, draw a line at 23cm from the top, and align to the top of the bottom shelf.

9. Secure the legs to the sides of the two shelves and repeat on the other side to finish off the shoe rack.

Secure the legs to the sides of the two shelves and repeat on the other side to finish off the shoe rack.Secure the legs to the sides of the two shelves and repeat on the other side to finish off the shoe rack.

10. Use a sander to smooth all surfaces and soften the edges, ensuring a neat and safe finish.

Use a sander to smooth all surfaces and soften the edges, ensuring a neat and safe finish.Use a sander to smooth all surfaces and soften the edges, ensuring a neat and safe finish.

Aida Ihsani is a self-taught DIYer and woodworker with over eight years of experience. Through her women’s woodworking workshops, she has empowered over 1,000 women from all walks of life to be confident in using power tools and start their DIY journey. For more on Aida’s workshop, visit www.aidaihsani.com or follow her on Instagram. If you don’t have your own tools, you can join Aida’s Women’s Woodworking Workshop.


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