DIY Infant/Toddler Shelf Help

[craftymissbeth]

I want to build a shelf like in the attached picture. I've never built anything before, but this looks simple enough. I'm going to buy a Kreg Jig, but I have access to most other tools I'll need. I may just have the lumber place cut the wood for me and I'll just assemble, sand, and apply some sort of protective coating. I need to do some research to see if anything non-toxic exists since this will be used for babies and young toddlers.

Anyone build their own furniture? Am I biting off more than I can chew? I can't afford to buy a premade one and I really want it to be heavy and sturdy.

I found the picture at http://leportschools.com/blog/five-d...ional-daycare/

[daycare]

I want to build a shelf like in the attached picture. I've never built anything before, but this looks simple enough. I'm going to buy a Kreg Jig, but I have access to most other tools I'll need. I may just have the lumber place cut the wood for me and I'll just assemble, sand, and apply some sort of protective coating. I need to do some research to see if anything non-toxic exists since this will be used for babies and young toddlers.

Anyone build their own furniture? Am I biting off more than I can chew? I can't afford to buy a premade one and I really want it to be heavy and sturdy.

I found the picture at http://leportschools.com/blog/five-d...ional-daycare/

BC's hubby does, talk to her and I am sure they can help you

[Blackcat31]

DH said to use oil based polyurethane. Once it's cured, it is safe for all.

If you are super concerned that your DCK's will eat your furniture, then choose an organic type.

Oil based polyurethane is THE MOST durable finish you can put on it.

You DO have to wear a mask while applying or apply in a well ventilated area.

If you chose to use a water based type, it smells horrid and will need to be re-applied several times once it starts to wear thin.

You can definitely have the lumber store cut your pieces for you...that's a service they offer!

If you get stuck along the way, let me know and I'll see if I (well DH) can help.

[craftymissbeth]

DH said to use oil based polyurethane. Once it's cured, it is safe for all.

If you are super concerned that your DCK's will eat your furniture, then choose an organic type.

Oil based polyurethane is THE MOST durable finish you can put on it.

You DO have to wear a mask while applying or apply in a well ventilated area.

If you chose to use a water based type, it smells horrid and will need to be re-applied several times once it starts to wear thin.

You can definitely have the lumber store cut your pieces for you...that's a service they offer!

If you get stuck along the way, let me know and I'll see if I (well DH) can help.

Thank you! I was definitely stumped on which to go with. I'm going to attempt it this next week hopefully. I'll let you know how it goes!

[CraftyMom]

You can definitely do this! I have built many things!

Just be sure to use thick enough wood so that it doesn't sag in the center from children climbing or sitting on it

Post pics when you're done!

happyface

[Chellieleanne]

I need to start getting tools so I can start crafting like that. I just crochet and sew I would love to get into wood work though! Good luck with your project

[craftymissbeth]

You can definitely do this! I have built many things!

Just be sure to use thick enough wood so that it doesn't sag in the center from children climbing or sitting on it

Post pics when you're done!

happyface

I didn't think about that I wonder if pine will be sturdy enough.. I need this to be a cheap project, but need it to last forever.

I need to start getting tools so I can start crafting like that. I just crochet and sew I would love to get into wood work though! Good luck with your project

I crochet and a few of my playroom plans include hanging wall baskets to keep certain toys out of reach and "Ikea" baskets to make infant treasure baskets. I'm excited! I just got my first lambskin rug in the mail today and 6 mo dcb (who's a stinker) laid on it and immediately zoned out.

http://www.howwemontessori.com/.a/6a0147e1d4f40f970b01901c470251970b-pi

[Chellieleanne]

I didn't think about that I wonder if pine will be sturdy enough.. I need this to be a cheap project, but need it to last forever.



I crochet and a few of my playroom plans include hanging wall baskets to keep certain toys out of reach and "Ikea" baskets to make infant treasure baskets. I'm excited! I just got my first lambskin rug in the mail today and 6 mo dcb (who's a stinker) laid on it and immediately zoned out.

http://www.howwemontessori.com/.a/6a...c470251970b-pi

If you are worried about the shelf lasting, maybe add dividers to give more support?

And those baskets are super cute! I have mainly made blankets and hats and such. I have made a couple toys but they were not that big of a hit.

My 3yo would be all over a lamb skin rug. He loves soft and fuzzy things(blankets, stuffed animals, you name it).