I am finally getting close to finishing up our Half Bathroom renovation. The most recent project that I’ve completed was building this adorable vintage step stool. I had originally planned on using a step stool that I found at Hobby Lobby in this bathroom but because our brick floors are a little uneven, it was pretty tipsy. That being the case, I decided to build a little sturdier one with the hope that my toddler won’t take any tumbles to the floor while washing her hands. Okay, maybe it was me that fell off of it while I was painting the trim around the door. Regardless that thing had to go and this little step stool came together so quickly and easily that it was worth it. I have even included printable plans and a traceable pattern for you to download to help make building this step stool even easier for you.
Overview
Tools
- Kreg Jig
- Drill
- Miter Saw
- Brad Nailer
- Jig Saw or Scroll Saw
- Tape measure
Materials
- 1×10 @ 3 feet
- 1×6 @ 14″
- 1×2 @ 3 1/2 feet
- (1)1 3/4″ x 3/4″ x 12″
- 1 1/4″ Pocket Hole Screws
- 2″ brad nails
- Paint
- Wood Filler
Cut List
- (2) 1×10 @ 9″ for the sides
- (1) 1×10 @ 12″ for the bottom step
- (3) 1×2 @ 12″ for the supports
- (1) 1×6 @ 14″ for the top step
- (1) 1 3/4″ @ 12″ for the scallops
Steps
1.Cut Out All The Pieces Using A Miter Saw
- (2) 1×10 @ 9″ for the sides
- (1) 1×10 @ 12″ for the bottom step
- (3) 1×2 @ 12″ for the supports
- (1) 1×6 @ 14″ for the top step
- (1) 1 3/4″ @ 12″ for the scallops
2. Print Out Pattern Pieces
After all your pieces are cut out. Print out the pattern I have included in the downloads above and trace the curved designs onto your side pieces. As you can see in the pictures below I used a canning ring to help me draw my curved designs. But lucky for you, I took the guesswork out of it so this part will be easy peasy!
3. Cut Out Curved Designs
Next, use a Jig Saw or Scroll Saw to cut out the curved designs. I used a jigsaw because that’s what I own but it is much easier to make detailed cuts using a Scroll Saw. So if you have access to a Scroll Saw then definitely use that.
4. Cut Out Scallop Design
Next trace the scallop pattern that is included in the printable download onto the 1 3/4″ piece of wood. This is the part where a Scroll Saw makes a huge difference. It was a little tricky cutting these out using a Jig Saw but I managed.
You only need to cut out one scallop pieces. I had originally designed my step stool to have scallops beneath the top and bottom step but then I changed my mind because I thought it looked too busy.
5. Drill Pocket Holes
Next, you will need to drill 3/4″ pocket holes in all the support pieces and three on each side of the bottom step. At this point, you should have three straight supports and one scallop piece. You can ignore the second scallop piece and imagine it is straight in the following pictures.
6. Attach Bottom Step To The Sides
7) Apply a bead of wood glue to the ends of the bottom step and attach it to the two side pieces using a brad nailer. This will hold it in place while you secure it using 1 1/4″ pocket hole screws.
7. Attach Bottom Support Pieces
Apply a bead of wood glue to the support pieces and attach them underneath the bottom step using pocket hole screws. Again these will both be straight pieces, ignore the scallops.
8. Attach Top Support Pieces
Attach the top support pieces in the same manner.
Next use wood glue and a brad nailer to attach the top step.
9. Add Decorative Trim Around Bottom Step
Optional: You can add decorative trim to the front of the bottom step if you like or leave it how it is. I thought mine still needed something fancy so I decided to add it. Now, all that’s left to do is fill the nail holes with wood filler, sand, and paint.
This project is perfect for using up those scrap pieces of wood you have lying around your house. As a matter of fact, this step stool requires so few materials it can be built at little or no cost to you. Additionally, you will only need a few hours to complete it from start to finish. So if you are impatient like I am, you are going to love this quick and easy project.
DON’T FORGET TO SHARE IT!
I would love to see your version of this vintage step stool. Share it on Instagram or Facebook and tag me @cedarlanefarmhouse
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