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Gifts & Small Projects

Grandkids’ Stool

Step-by-step build — 8 steps. Also available as a print sheet.

  1. 1Cut the side pieces

    • Cut (2) side pieces - 11 1/4" x 11".
    • Cut 2 1/4" radius' to the upper edges with a jig saw.
    • Cut a 3 1/2" radius centered on the bottom edge with a jig saw. Use a router to create the hand holes. Use spindle sander to sand the radius' and the hand hold.
    • Round over all edges except the bottom 'feet' with a router round over bit.
    Grandkids’ Stool — step photo 6
  2. 2Cut the seat/step

    • Cut one seat/step piece - 9 1/4" x 12 1/2". Use a pocket hole jig to drill pocket holes as shown.
    • Round over the 0utside edges with a router round over bit.
    Grandkids’ Stool — step photo 7
  3. 3Cut the seat/step supports

    • Cut (2) 2" x 12 1/2" x 3/4" step/seat supports. Use a pocket hole jig to drill the holes as shown.
    • Round over the bottom edge with a router round over bit.
    Grandkids’ Stool — step photo 8
  4. 4Assemble the parts - support 1

    Secure one support as shown with 1/4" pocket hole screws.

    Grandkids’ Stool — step photo 9
  5. 5Assemble the parts - support 2

    Secure one support as shown with 1/4" pocket hole screws.

    Grandkids’ Stool — step photo 10
  6. 6Assemble the parts - end piece

    Add the final side piece and secure with 1 1/4" pocket hole screws.

    Grandkids’ Stool — step photo 11
  7. 7Add the seat

    Add the seat and secure to the side pieces with 1 1/4" pocket hole screws. Also screw the supports to the seat with 1 1/4" pocket hole screws.

    Grandkids’ Stool — step photo 12
  8. 8Paint or Stain the step stool

    With assembly complete, paint or stain as desired. Also add floor protection to the bottom of each foot. I used a 1/2" x 1 3/4" piece of 1/8" cork on each foot.

    Grandkids’ Stool — step photo 13