Simplified Woodworking: 2 Tone Coat Rack Full Project

Over the years, I have read quite a number of books, magazines, and articles on woodworking. I've also watched a number of videos and shows too. From these, I have learned a lot about how to execute different tasks and techniques, as well as some principles of woodworking. However, something was missing from ever show or article I saw or read. What was it?

Alternatives:
Alternatives are what was missing. In what way? Well, while each show/article had photos and instructions, and while all were well written, they didn't teach people how to use simple tools to do the same job that the big professional tools do. These shows do often use simple tools in these projects. However, the focus was on the most efficient, precise, and easiest way to do the job. In wood working ease equals expensive, and therefore, is out of the range of many do it yourselfers.

Efficiency and ease are great, but only if the cost of tools and materials don't out weigh the need/function of the item being built. I've thought about, and calculated many times the cost versus need of the tools shown on these shows. In every case, I decided that, while I would love to have the table saw, bench planer, or drill press, I couldn't justify the cost. Once again, I don't have anything against these tools. There may come a day when I start to sell my works and I may just buy these for efficiency sake. For the time being though, I can build what I want, and need with simple tools. With a little creativity, a few extra hours, as well as some hard work, you can build just about anything with inexpensive hand tools.

That's why I'm starting Simplified Woodworking. The "simplified" doesn't refer to the projects that will be tackled, rather the tools and materials needed to tackle them. Since I'm no Pro, this will give me the chance to learn, help others, and make mistakes so that all of us can better our abilities.

One thing to keep in mind is that these projects are based on things I need for my own house. Even if you don't need these same items, you can use these projects to learn the techniques, and methods of wood working with simple hand tools.  These methods are used in many of the woodworking projects that you will want to complete. Something I've learned about woodworking is that any project can be as simple or complex as you want it to be. Keep in mind, that many times, simple is just as good as complicated, or even better. Others times, you will need a more complex method to allow for strength, durability, and quality. In the world of woodworking there are very few variation in methods of joining, cutting, and finishing. Techniques of each of these procedures can vary greatly. Still, each one serves a very important purpose.

As the projects are completed, I will do my best to explain all the methods used to the best that time allows in the videos. Also, I will explain these same methods in a written post. My explanations will include: why I am doing what I am doing, and also, what else could have been done instead.

At the bottom of the list you will see all the videos Parts 1 thru 6 of the project: Simplified Woodworking: 2 Tone Coat Rack. It goes over the design and the materials. Above each video, you will find a description of what each video contains.

Here is the list of tools and materials you will need. You can download the drawing that I did in Illustrator. (see image above). Hope you enjoy the videos, and let me know what you think.

The materials use for this project are:
- Plywood piece 7"x30"x1/2" (1) Note: Any wood can be used as long as it is the dimensions listed
- Plywood piece 6-3/4"x29-3/4"x1/2" (1) Note: Any wood can be used as long as it is the dimensions listed
- Wood Glue, epoxy, or Liquid nails
- 1/2" Dowels, smooth or grooved (1 stick=3ft long) Note: Smooth dowels will have a more finish and polished appearance. You can also use aluminum or steel dowels with an epoxy
- Flax seed oil / Small can  Note: Stains, polyurethanes, lacquers or varnishes can also be used if you choose to.)


Tools
- Circular Saw (Hand saw can be used)
- Hand Saw
- Drill (electric, manual, or cordless)
- 1/2" Drill bit / sharp
- Hammer (Wood, Rubber, or lightweight steel)
- Jigsaw (a Coping can also be used)
- Orbital Sander
- Sand Paper: 80, 100, 120
- Square
- Measuring tape
- pencil
-Application method for oils or coatings of choice. Consult your local hardware store for each product you may want to use.
- Safety gear: Safety glasses, ear plugs, and dust mask (suggested)

Before you watch video number one, please note the following information. 

I just realized that I had not gone over the part of how to cut the wood to the 7 inch height that I am using. Well, my suggestion would be this.

First, go get the plywood. If you do not plan on making/building multiple pieces of furniture, then just buy the pre-cut stuff from Lowes or HomeDepot. I've found that generally speaking, Lowes has a better selection of plywood. Remember, I'm not talking about particle board (MDF), or Chip/Press board (OSB). I mean real plywood.  Then go and read this link on how to make a straight edge for your circular saw. Measure down from the factory edge 7 inches on one of the corners of the 48 inch width, and then do the same on the other end. Using the straight edge again, cut the 24 inch by 48 inch board into a 7" ("=inches (just in case you didn't know)) by 30" board. Repeat until you have two boards of 7" x 30".

Now that you've thought about the sizing, it's time to think about the materials. There are a couple of easy options. Remember, there is nothing wrong with using pine plywood. Just remember that is scratches and dents fairly easy. That means that in less time your finished project could need to be repaired, or replaced. My personal preference of easily accessible plywood is Birch Plywood or Red Oak. These would be great on this project. Birch would work wonderfully as the natural back piece, and the Red Oak would look very nice as the designed 2nd layer piece. Please note that these two plywood's are my favorite, easily available plywood's, and ones that you can generally get from your local big box home improvement store. There are many more much attractive and different grained plywood's that are popular for wood working available also at any number of furniture quality lumber yards, or wood brokers.

You also can buy red oak in 2'x4' and 4'x8' plywood, just like the Birch. If you want a real 2 tone look that is 100% natural, buy one sheet of the Birch and one of the Red Oak. Using the Red Oak on top. However, if you want to save a little money, you can cut the 2'x4' Birch sheet into 2) 7"x30" pieces and stain one piece with a cherry, mahogany, ceder, or walnut stain. Just something to contrast the boards with.

If you choose to stain, just make sure you stain the top board after you cut the design out, and stain all the edges, and about an inch onto the back all around. This way it will be less noticeable that it was stained.

Please forgive the quality of these videos. This was my first tutorial, and the video equipment I was using was not the greatest. However, I've been told by many, that the project and information is very good. I'm working to improve my videos for the future. 

Now we're on to part 2 of this project. In part 2, I go over cutting the front and back boards and drawing out the design. There's not much to explain for this part, so I'll leave you with the video below and let you continue on your way.




Here in part 3 learn about cutting the design out of the top board.




Part 4: Here you will learn about the sanding process and choices that I decided on.




Part 5: In this part, I go over the assembly process of the coat rack.




Part 6: This is the video where I go over the finishing process of the coat rack.

Hoping To Inspire The DIY In You

It's very easy to find reasons as to why we shouldn't do things. First off, there's the time something takes. "Do I have enough time to do it?" Second, is the knowledge of doing it. We say to ourselves... "I simply don't know how." Third, is the money involved. "How much will it cost, and what if I screw it up?" Fourth, and very important in the mid-century/retro (modern or traditional) styling is... Will it be respected as fitting in?

All four of these points are very important to consider. In fact, I would go so far as to say, they are crucial before you start any DIY project. However, there is a fifth factor to consider as well.

What is the fifth fact you may be asking. Well simply put, it's what some may call perspective, ego, or being picky. I call it, knowing what you want. Our Fifth factor is, making sure you'll be satified with something that is not "vintage Mid-Century".

To me though, the term Mid-Century Modern is more about the principle of a design style and less of a time frame. It gives us guidelines to use in our own design processes. So, in other words. As long as a piece of furniture or design looks like it was built in the mid-century modern era, it's of good quality, and it functions the way I need it to, to me...It is as mid-century as something that Charles Eames made himself. Don't misunderstand, I'm not trying to compare my own work to Charles Eames or any of the other designers.

I'll dare state though, that most Mid-century modern dealers (if they've been around for a length of time) have come across a beautiful piece of furniture, only to find out that it was custom made and is not a famous designers piece. Why so? Simply because in the mid-century era, most did not have the money to buy all the furniture that they wanted or needed. Sure, there are tons of certain designs out there. These were popular for their time period, and sold by the ton. Plus, some designs are just to difficult for most to make without special equipment. Therefore, people bought the pieces.

Still, a hugely over looked aspect of the mid-century lifestyle was, not only to buy the most creative designs, but also to be creative yourself. How many DIY furniture, sculpture, cabins, art, cooking, sewing, and crafts books are still floating around from that wonderful design period? Question being though: Have you considered the feasibility of building something yourself?

As many reasons as you may have thought up for not doing a DIY project, there are just as many reasons for doing one. Here are just a few.

1. It can be cheaper
2. You can get the design that you want
3. The size fits your specific area/needs
4. Finishing options are almost unlimited
5. The quality can be as good as you make it
6. It's super fun. (once you get past all the frustration)
7. You can tell everyone: "It my original creation"
8. A lot of times you can sale it for more than it cost you to build

Understand though, I'm not trying to paint DIY furniture or otherwise, as being simple or perfect. Each project has its demands, and you may be limited by time, or space needed to effect the DIY project. Still, you would be surprised what you can do with just a few simple hand tools.

Yesterday, while it was raining outside, I started to reminisce about woodworking. I subsequently re-posted the photo on the (side the photo is on here) to facebook, and it amazed me the positive feedback that my credenza generated. Especially concidering the tools and materials I used on the project.

In a very short form (I'll put up a longer post on just the credenza later), this is what I used to build my credeza.

• Hammer 
• drill
• circular saw
• screwdriver
• glue
• screws
• orbital sander
• old fashioned Stanley hand plain (not electric)
• sand paper
• box cutter
• chisle
• square
• measuring tape
• construction grade plywood (Not cabinet/furniture grade. The rough stuff.)
• a lopsided table
• one helper (part of the time)
• my wife as a table clamp

Honestly, in other words. I could say that I used all the wrong stuff, but it still turned out nice. It just took determination, a little time, and some effort. Now though, I enjoy my credenza much more than anything I could have bough,t and most people think it's vintage.

So, why not join in on the fun and get yourself a few electric hand tools, an inexpensive mid-century modern DIY book, and see what you can make for yourself. Who knows, you may have everything you need right at home.

 To help, I'm going to try and do a few simple economical furniture and crafts DIY projects and put them on the blog.

Mid-Century Hobby's: Douglas Fir Plywood Home Storage Plans (semi hard to find)

Check out more about this book by clicking.*

As far as collecting goes, this is a book to have. As far as building projects go, this is a book to have. And as far as the technical drawings, designs and illustrations...? You got it. This is the book to have.

In other words... If your a book collector, mid-century enthusiast, and you like to do woodworking as a hobby, you'll really enjoy this book.

You can check out more photos of what the book has to offer by clicking here*, or on the caption below the photo.

Just a note. All ads,store apps, and links with an (*) are affiliate links. These links are the method that keeps Amidst mod going financially.

Norman Cherner Book. How Much Would You Pay?

Photo from www.modernism101.com

Clearly, I had heard of, and seen, Norman Cherner's famous "Cherner Chair". It's a very liked piece in the mcm market. What I hadn't known about before, was some of the other things he had done.

Photo from www.chernerchair.com

Since I'm a fanatic about vintage books, mainly sci-fi, woodworking, and home design, I was really intrigued to find out that Mr. Cherner was a very creative and respected architect of a prefab nature. Along with creating furniture and houses, he also wrote books on these subjects.

Having found out about the books, I had to check them out. Mr. Cherner indeed wrote books. Some very interesting and cool ones in fact. From what I can tell, he wrote 4 books. According to Chernerchair.com, which his sons run, he wrote: "Fabricating Houses from Component Parts" (1958) "How to Build a House for Less the $6,000" (1960), "Make your own Modern Furniture" (1953) and "How to Build Children's Toys and Furniture" (1954).

All of these books are very interesting to me, but of particular interest to me is the "How to Build a House for Less the $6,000". Now, don't get me wrong, I know that today your not going to get the materials for less than $6000, but I have to imagine that there are some very cool ideas in this book. Only, there is one small problem... The price tag for the book. From what I can tell online, the book sales for anywhere between $200 and $300 dollars. To collectors that may not seem unreasonable, but it's just out of my price range for the moment. Respecting the rarity and design quality of the book, I can see why it would fetch such a price. For me though, I'd rather buy more furniture wood.

Also, for more info on the Cherner Chair, Norman Cherner, and furniture that has been created by Benjamin Cherner, go to www.chernerchair.com

 If your interested in buying any of Norman Cherner's books, below you will find links to what I've found offered online. These are all the links that I have found.

Links to purchase his books
  Fabricating Houses From Component Parts (Hardcover)

Make your own modern furniture;: Working plans and room designs for more comfortable and convenient living [Hardcover]

1957 Norman Cherner PRE-FABRICATING HOUSES 1st edition

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. By using these links you can get what you need/want and help Amidst Mod to continue providing info and inspirations

Douglas Fir's 52 Plywood Home Storage Plans Book

All photos are from www.populuxebooks.com

With all that's going on right now, there's no better time then now to get that Mid-Century mindset. Why...you may ask. Well, here's a few reasons. 1) The economy is tight, and this is cheap 2) You can entertain yourself and get something mid-century all in the same time at little expense 3) you can better your coordination while decorating your home and save money

Facts of the matter are, many times we think that it's more cost effective to buy something instead of building it ourselves. In some cases that is very true. To buy a car is much more practical than to try and build your own. Sometimes it's also the way with Mid-Century furniture. If you find a great deal or know how to repair it yourself, there you go, more efficient to buy than build. However, that's not always so.

I think another misconception is that of:"I don't know how to build furniture, so I won't do a good job." This too is a valid thought. However, have you thought about the fact that a lot of the furniture in your home, or homes of the past are, in reality very simple shapes, with very simple assembly processes.

That's why I'm telling you about this book. It starts with one of the most basic of materials...Plywood. See I don't just like the way plywood looks (I really love plywood). I think that it is one of the best beginners materials on the market. Here's a few reasons why.
   1)Plywood comes pre-planed
   2)It has fairly straight factory edges
   3)It can easy be cut, molded, sanded, and formed
   4)Generally holds screws, nails, glues, epoxy's, and other fasteners well.
   5)Comes in multiple wood types
   6)With detailed drawings many home improvement stores can cut your pieces to size if needed.
   7)Easy to find large pieces for most furniture surface areas.
   8)Can be stained, or have fine wood laminates applied.
   9)Very strong with a fine line. Very sleek looking.

All photos are from www.populuxebooks.com

So, as you can see plywood can provide a lot of benefits for those who are either beginner woodworkers, or those who are experienced.

As I tried to show with my first Simplified Woodworking episode, today, you can be retro and original. How so? If you follow vintage methods and use vintage materials you can build a brand new Mid-Century piece. That's why I suggest you check out the 52 plywood home storage plans book by Douglas Fir, because it's a great book to start with. It's not the only one though. This book is hard to find. So, it usually begs a higher price. However, there are reasons why.

All photos are from www.populuxebooks.com

Back in the day, Douglas Fir was the plywood industry. Not just the leader, but for some time, they basically were the only player in the game. That didn't stop them from pushing the uses of plywood to it's limits. Being an enthusiast of vintage woodworking, I can tell you that I have looked at, and read about a bunch of the old woodworking books. However, by far, the Douglas Fir books are recognized as being some of the best mcm woodworking books out there. Plus, these books are collectors items.

You can get this book here from Populuxebooks.com
 

At Long Last!!!

At long last is right! It was only 2 years ago that I told my lovely and patient wife how I could save us money by building a credenza myself. I promised that for the same amount of money that we would spend in one of the "department stores" (Quotes used here because, in small town Chile S.A. there aren't any TRUE department stores.) I could build one that was not only better quality, but looked better too.The other part of the statement said something about how it would only take 2 months. Oh, well... the past is the past and now I have a finished credenza. However, that's not the end. There is a little bit of a story that makes this piece so special to us. This is how it goes...

This piece starts with me thinking as if I was still living in the States. Sure hunny, (my dislexic spelling of my wife's pet name, which really is honey) all I have to do is select some really good cabinetry/furniture grade plywood and then I can get started. I should have this thing done in no time. Ha!!!! Furniture grade plywood is, in small town Chile anyway, construction grade plywood but thicker. It's thicker so that after you have sanded off all the unfinished ply's you still have some kind of support. Fine, I got the wood purchased, but that was just the start of all the fun.

About the time that I got ready to start working with the wood I had bought

I went to pick up a few tools that I needed. Mind you that many things (most farm/plowing equipment and furniture) are still made with hand saws, hand drills, and gerbil driven table saws in this area. No, really! The tools that the two local furniture makers use are what my 1950's vintage woodworking books show as modern. Any who, I, being completely naive thought that, well, power tools are a dime a dozen and if I don't like the price I'll just buy online at discount right?! I mean, you only have to wait a few days more anyway. Yeah, right! Those are two things that don't exist here. Options, and cheap. So I bought what I could afford. I built this piece with a circular saw and a borrowed drill. A hammer drill at that. Here tools are 2 to 3 times the price of what you find them in the states.

Even still, I had the opportunity of having providing our neighbors with rumor mill material. Being the only foreigners in this small town can draw some attention even though you don't mean to. See, the house that we are renting was, at that time, and still is today (2 years later) getting a 100 square foot expansion. This meant that I had to do my woodworking in the carport. No big deal until I started fitting the credenza together. All they saw as this long rectangular box and so like any normal person would assume, I was building a coffin. Why a coffin? Why not?

That definitely drew some attention. Funny thing is, I couldn't for the life of my find any furniture clamps. So, I used my wife. Yep. Good thing she likes to read. She sat on top of the sheet of plywood and I shaved the edges with my good ole Stanley hand planer. Yet, no one thought that was strange at all. The construction of a plywood box had our neighbors passing by our gate to see what was going on. Go figure.

Originally the concept was for a chest of drawers that would be low lying as our home was originally more of a studio concept with the bedroom and living in the same open floor plan. In fact, the need for my wife to have a place to put her panties is what started this project to begin with. Imagine my surprise when one day I see her packing all her stuff in one of our pieces of luggage. I was sure she had had enough of this project and living here and was going home. However, my wife loves me and was only re-organizing her stuff.

Since then the credenza has been destined to be a buffet for the kitchen area, a normal credenza, and an electronics cabinet/entertainment center. I think now it will just be a credenza, and we don't know where it will go in the house. Looks like I built it just a bit to big. What can I say? I guess my eyes where bigger the our house. Not to fear though. We will definitely use it, even if I have to save it until the day I die and get buried in it. You know, the whole coffin thing doesn't sound so bad after all. Who knew...!