When it comes to creating functional and stylish furniture, a little bit of craftsmanship and creativity can go a long way.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the process of building a custom room divider with built-in storage and industrial flair. It’s perfect for organizing your space while adding a unique aesthetic touch. Let’s dive into the details, step by step.
Materials You’ll Need
Before we get started, here’s everything you’ll need to bring this project to life:
Threaded Pipe and Accessories:
- Two pieces of ½” threaded pipe (60” each)
- One piece of ½” threaded pipe (48”)
- Two 90-degree pipe elbow joints
- Two floor flanges
Wood Components:
- Four wooden blocks (1” thick, 4” x 4” each)
- Two ¾” plywood panels (60” length x 20” height each)
- One ¾” plywood panel (60” length x 3.375” height)
- Three ¾” plywood panels (3.375” length x 20” width each)
Hardware and Finishes:
- Four industrial casters
- One box of 1 ½” wood screws
- Sculpt Nouveau Universal Black Patina
- Danish Oil
- Wood Glue
Tools and Templates:
- Power drill with assorted bits
- 7/64” drill bit
- 11/64” countersink driver bit
- Two Pony 6” clamps
- “Drill Hole” and “Caster” paper templates
- Pencil
Step 1: Have Your Plywood Cut
The first step is preparing the wood. Visit your local hardware store and have them cut the plywood to the following dimensions:
- Top and Bottom Panels: Two pieces, each measuring 60” x 20” x ¾”.
- Back Panel: One piece, 60” x 3.375” x ¾”.
- Side Panels and Middle Beam: Three pieces, each 19.25” x 3.25” x ¾”.
Step 2: Lay Out and Drill Initial Holes
Lay the bottom panel flat (60” x 20”) and position the three side pieces (20” x 3.375”) along with the back panel (60” x 3.25”) in their intended positions. Use clamps to hold everything in place. Flip the assembly over and use a pencil to mark the spots where you’ll pre-drill holes.
Step 3: Use the Template for Precision
For a more precise guide, use the provided “Drill Hole” template. This ensures uniform spacing and alignment for your screws, which will make the assembly both sturdy and professional-looking.
Step 4: Pre-Drill Holes
Switch to the 7/64” drill bit and carefully pre-drill through the bottom panel into the clamped side and back panels. Drill about ¼” into the adjoining pieces. Then, switch to the 11/64” countersink driver bit and create countersink holes 1/8” deep. This will allow the screw heads to sit flush with the wood surface.
Step 5: Secure the Panels with Glue and Screws
Apply a small amount of wood glue along the edges of the back panel and side beams before securing them to the bottom panel with screws. This adds strength and durability to your assembly.
Step 6: Attach the Top Panel
Place the top panel (60” x 20”) over the side beams and back panel, ensuring all edges align evenly. Use clamps to secure it in place temporarily. Again, mark the pre-drill locations using the “Drill Hole” template.
Step 7: Pre-Drill and Countersink the Top Panel
Using the same process as in Step 4, pre-drill holes with the 7/64” bit and then use the 11/64” countersink driver bit to create countersink holes. This step ensures your screws will hold the top panel securely without splitting the wood.
Step 8: Secure the Top Panel
Apply glue to the top edges of the side beams and back panel. Place the top panel carefully, ensuring everything is flush and even. Clamp it in place, then screw it down using the pre-drilled holes. At this point, you’ll have a sturdy wooden box as the base of your room divider.
Step 9: Attach Casters and Flanges
Flip the box over so the bottom panel is facing upward. Use the “Caster” template to mark where each of the four industrial casters will go. Drill the necessary holes and attach the casters using wood screws. Flip the box upright again and attach the two flanges to the top panel, using the paper flange template for guidance.
Step 10: Assemble the Pipes
Connect the three pieces of threaded pipe using the two 90-degree elbow joints. Once connected, attach the assembly to the flanges on the top panel of the box. Tighten everything securely. This pipe structure will serve as both the divider and the rack for additional storage or decor.
Admire Your Work!
Congratulations! You’ve successfully built a portable room divider and storage rack. This versatile piece of furniture not only provides practical organization but also adds a touch of industrial elegance to any room.
Feel free to customize it further with paint, decorative panels, or hooks to suit your personal style. We’re confident this project will not only serve you well but also impress anyone who sees it in action.
Project Via Instructables – Get the PDF Instructions here.
