Last spring, I participated in the One Room Challenge and transformed my laundry room. One of the highlights of the renovation was the DIY laundry folding table that I built. If you're looking for a functional yet stylish addition to your laundry room, let me show you how to create your own customizable laundry folding table.
When it comes to DIY projects, it's easy to feel overwhelmed, but I assure you that building this laundry folding table is a straightforward task. The best part is that you can fully customize it to meet your specific needs and preferences.
Building the Shelf Base
To get started, you'll need the following supplies for the base shelf:
- Table Saw
- Miter Saw
- 3/4 inch plywood, cut to size
- 1/4 inch by 3 inch trim for the base
- Screw gun
- 2 inch screws
- Brad nailer
First, cut your 3/4 inch plywood into six pieces according to the provided measurements. These pieces will form the foundation of your shelf.
Assemble the shelf by securing the pieces together. Start by holding the two vertical pieces that measure 21 by 35 1/2 inches and attach the first 18 by 21 inch piece to the top. For added stability, pre-drill holes and secure with screws. Repeat the process with the bottom shelf and the middle shelf, positioning them three inches apart.
Next, attach the back piece by screwing it into the plywood along the edges and wherever the shelves meet the back piece. Complete the shelf by adding trim to the base and the edge of the shelves using nails.
For a rustic touch, consider painting the shelf and sanding some of the edges to achieve a worn look.
The Table Legs
Finding the right height table legs for your DIY laundry folding table may take some time, but it's worth the effort. Position the shelf base in its final spot and determine the length of your countertop. I chose an 88-inch countertop to accommodate three laundry baskets underneath. Adjust the length according to your room size and requirements.
To construct the table legs, cut them to match the height of the shelf, which in my case was 35 1/2 inches. Place the countertop on the shelf, ensuring it's level, and position the legs accordingly. At this stage, the legs are not yet secured. If everything looks good, proceed to attach a ledger board under the countertop. This will serve as the support for the countertop along the wall.
Cut the ledger board out of plywood, making it 1 inch wide, 2 inches deep, and 64 inches long. Secure it into the studs in the wall at the same height as the shelf and table legs. However, keep in mind that the height may vary slightly depending on your flooring.
To strengthen the table, add a 2" by 4" wood block between the table legs. Then, attach a block to the 2" by 4" piece of wood, which will be used to secure the countertop from underneath.
Secure the countertop to the ledger board from underneath using screws. For added stability, secure the legs into the countertop through the top. Fill any holes with wood putty and seal the entire top surface.
Now that your DIY laundry folding table is complete, you can add laundry baskets underneath and start enjoying its functionality.
Conclusion
Creating a DIY laundry folding table may seem intimidating, but it is a relatively simple project that anyone can tackle. Even if you don't have advanced woodworking tools, most hardware stores will cut the wood for you. The best part is the customization options available to fit your laundry room size and layout perfectly.
So, what do you think of this handmade DIY laundry folding table? I can attest to its practicality and how it has made doing laundry a little more pleasant. The storage provided by the baskets underneath has been invaluable for organizing swimming gear, hunting equipment, and other miscellaneous items.
If you're interested in more home improvement projects, check out my other articles on farmhouse makeovers and DIY barn doors.
Remember to pin this post and share it with others who might find it helpful. Happy DIY-ing!
Have a great day!