DIY Simple Chalkboard Crate

Jaime LaPlant
by Jaime LaPlant
8 Materials
Lately, I have been trying to change out some of my storage containers in my house. I thought about purchasing a few wood crates, but after looking at them I knew I could build a better crate at a cheaper price. If you are looking for a simple storage solution, this may be the perfect project for you!
I decided to base my crate on Ana White's Chalkboard Produce Crate. I did not follow the plan exactly, but it is based on that plan. Here are the steps that I took to make mine.
Step 1: Cut your boards.


Needed Cuts:


2 - 1" x 3" at 13" (chalkboard side tops)


4 - 1" x 2" at 5" (chalkboard side sides)


2 - 1" x 2" at 13" (chalkboard side bottoms)


6 - 1" x 3" at 15 3/4" (slat sides)


1 - 1/4" plywood at 17 1/4" x 13" (crate bottom)


2 - 1/4" plywood at 7 1/4" x 11 1/2" (chalkboards)


*Note: If you bought a 2' x 2' piece of plywood, cut the bottom piece first. Then cut the 2 smaller pieces. The opening for the chalkboard will be 10" x 5", so just make sure it is larger than the opening.
Step 2: Drill two 1" holes in the chalkboard side tops. Drill the holes about 5" in from the ends and centered between the top and bottom.
Step 3: Use your jig saw to cut from one hole to the other to form the handles.
Step 4: Using the pocket holes and glue, attach the side pieces to the handle piece and to the chalkboard side bottom pieces.
Step 5: Using the pocket holes and glue, attach the slats to the chalkboard sides.
Step 6: Using finishing nails and glue, attach the bottom.
Step 7: Fill any holes with wood filler and sand all surfaces.
Step 8: Paint your chalkboards. Paint one side of each board with the chalkboard paint and paint or stain the other side to match whatever the rest of your crate is going to be painted.
Step 9: Paint or stain the crate.
Step 10: Once everything is dry, use glue to attach the two chalkboards.
Step 11: Find the perfect place for your new crate! These crates are really easy to make and they can be used for so many different things!


Here are just a few ideas for these crates, but the possibilities are endless!


Welcome your out of town guests with a crate full of supplies that they may need while visiting.
Use a crate to corral the kid's or dog's toys.
Store extra blankets in a crate in the guest bedroom.
To see more details and pictures, be sure to check out my blog!
Suggested materials:
  • 1" x 2" Furring Strip
  • 1" x 3" Furring Strips
  • 1/4" Plywood
See all materials
Jaime LaPlant
Want more details about this and other DIY projects? Check out my blog post!
Go
Frequently asked questions
Have a question about this project?
Comments
Join the conversation
3 of 14 comments
Next