As an artist, my workspace isn’t the only place I need to keep organized. I, like many of you, have a bit of a shoe obsession! Finding an efficient and stylish way to store my ever-growing collection has been a constant challenge. That is, until I discovered the magic of rotating shoe racks.
These space-saving wonders not only tame the shoe chaos but also add a touch of sophistication to any room. But why settle for store-bought when you can create a custom rotating shoe rack that perfectly fits your needs and reflects your personal style?
This guide will provide you with a step-by-step walkthrough of the construction process, sprinkled with my personal tips and tricks. So grab your tool belt, and let’s get crafting!
Gathering Your Supplies
Before we embark on this exciting DIY journey, let’s ensure we have all the necessary materials and tools at hand.
Materials:
- 1 Lazy Susan bearing (a 6″ bearing is recommended)
- 1/2″ MDF (medium-density fiberboard) – you’ll need three pieces of 1/2″ x 24″ x 48″ or one sheet of 48″ x 96″
- 9 Dowel screws (1/4″ x 2 1/2″ minimum)
- 2 pieces of 1″ x 48″ round dowel
- 6 Wood screws (1 1/2″ minimum length)
- 8 Wood screws (1/2″ long)
- Paint and primer of your choice
Tools:
- Jigsaw, scroll saw, or band saw
- Drill and drill bits
- Sander
- String
- Pencil
- Small nail or screw
- Hammer
- Pliers
- Measuring tape
- Screwdriver
Expert Tip: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different finishes to match your existing decor. A distressed wood finish for a rustic look, or a vibrant pop of color for a modern twist, are just a few ideas to spark your creativity.
Building Your Masterpiece: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that we have our arsenal ready, let’s dive into the heart of the project.
Step 1: Crafting the Circular Shelves
- Begin by tracing six circles onto your MDF. For perfect circles, mark a center point and use a string and pencil as a makeshift compass. Each circle should have a 12″ radius (24″ diameter).
- Carefully cut out the six circles using your chosen saw.
- Smooth out the edges with sandpaper for a clean finish.
Robert Kline Art Pro Tip: Patience is key when working with MDF. Take your time with the cutting and sanding process to avoid any unsightly chips or uneven edges.
Step 2: Creating the Support Structure
- Select one of your circular shelves and mark a smaller circle within it, 11″ from the center. This will serve as a guide for your dowel posts.
- Drill 3/8″ holes through the shelf at strategic points along the 11″ circle. Use this shelf as a template to mark and drill corresponding holes on two more shelves.
- On two different shelves, mark and drill 1/8″ holes using the same template and markings.
Important Note: The placement of these holes is crucial for the stability of your rotating shoe rack. Ensure they are evenly spaced and aligned for optimal support.
Step 3: Assembling the Dowel Posts
- Cut your 1″ round dowel into twelve 6 1/2″ pieces.
- Drill different sized pilot holes into the ends of the dowel pieces for the dowel screws.
Step 4: Bringing It All Together
- Separate your circular shelves into two groups: those with 3/8″ holes and those with 1/8″ holes.
- Begin assembling the rack by attaching the dowel posts to the shelves using dowel screws, working your way from the bottom to the top.
- Ensure the dowels are securely fastened and the shelves are properly aligned.
Step 5: Adding the Finishing Touches
- Attach the lazy Susan bearing to the top and bottom shelves of your shoe rack. This will allow for smooth rotation.
- Fill any imperfections with putty or spackle and sand smooth.
- Prime and paint your shoe rack in your desired color scheme.
- Once the paint is dry, apply a protective layer of polycrylic for added durability.
Sharing Your Work of Art
Congratulations! You’ve now built your very own custom rotating shoe rack. Not only will this functional piece of furniture keep your shoes organized and accessible, but it will also serve as a testament to your craftsmanship.
I encourage you to share your creations and inspire others to embark on their own DIY adventures. Let’s create a community where creativity knows no bounds!
What are your favorite ways to organize your creative spaces? Share your tips and tricks in the comments section below. And be sure to explore Robert Kline Art for more inspiring DIY projects and handmade gift ideas.