Industrial Cubby Storage

Instructions

1. 1Lay out vertical posts

   Cut eight, 2 x 2 x 47-1/2" posts. Lay out four posts on your work surface.

2. 2Assemble grids

   • Cut 24, 2 x 2 x 13" horizontal support pieces. To create each grid: Align a horizontal support between each post, making sure each sits flush to the top of the posts. Using pocket holes and 2-1/2" screws, connect posts and supports.
   • Measure 12-1/2" from the bottom of the supports and ascribe a line.
   • Align the next row of supports on the line and attach with screws through pocket holes.
   • Attach two more rows of horizontal supports in the same manner, ultimately creating a grid with nine, 13" x 12-1/2" openings.
   • Repeat the above steps to create a second grid with remaining vertical posts and horizontal supports.

3. 3Attach rails

   • Cut rails from 2 x 2, 2 x 3 and 2 x 4 boards.
   • Drill 2-3 pocket holes, evenly spaced on each end of each rail.
   • Flip one assembled grid onto your work surface, face-down. Using pocket holes and 2-1/2" screws, attach the 2 x 2 rails in the top corners.
   • Attach 2 x 3 rails at the intersecting grid points, along the outer posts, keeping the rails flush to the outside.
   • Attach 2 x 4 rails, centered on the remaining intersecting grid points.

4. 4Connect frame

   • Flip the second grid, face-down onto the work surface. Invert the first grid (with attach rails) onto the second grid.
   • Align the rails and connect with pocket holes and 2-1/2" screws.

5. 5Build and attach top

   • *First measure the opening on the top side of the assembled frame. If the opening is not 42" x 10-1/2", adjustments to the size of the top may be needed.
   • Cut three, 1 x 4 x 42" boards.
   • Join boards edge to edge with pocket holes and 1-1/4" screws.
   • Drill additional pocket holes around the perimeter of the joined top.
   • Insert the top into the opening on the top of the frame.
   • Attach the top to the frame using the perimeter pocket holes and 1-1/4" screws.

6. 6Attach stop blocks

   • Cut nine, 13" lengths of 1/2" x 1/2" square wood trim. On the backside of the frame, place a stop block on the top side of each horizontal support, flush to the back.
   • Attach with wood glue and 18 gauge finish nails. This should provide a 1" wide strip of horizontal support exposed.

7. 7Storage cubbies

   The frame will accommodate standard, 12" storage cubbies. To make a set of DIY, Industrial style storage cubbies from wood and off-the-shelf steel panels, check out this tutorial: http://www.pneumaticaddict.com/2016/02/diy-industrial-storage-cubbies.html

8. 8Sand and finish

   Sand the entire frame, making sure to knock down sharp edges. For a painted finish, sand up to a minimum of a 120 grit and for a stained finish, a minimum of a 220 grit. For smoother movement and extra protection, apply 1-2 coats of paste wax to the rails before adding storage cubbies.