How to Build a Cheap Locker

A sports locker can serve as a storage unit for your sports equipment.

Lockers can serve as storage for your old sports equipment and other miscellaneous paraphernalia, help you round up things you don't have a place to put and free your home from clutter. Lockers can also add a unique form of decor to your home or garage where you plan on storing your equipment. Building a locker is a moderately challenging process with the appropriate tools.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• 3/4" plywood
• Four 1-by-1-inch wooden strips for each locker
• Exterior corner molding
• Wood screws
• Stainless steel or brass handles
• Hasps and padlocks
• Woodscrews
• Circular saw

Instructions

1. Decide where you want your new locker to rest in your home or garage. Measure your locker space's dimensions using your tape measure. The space needed will depend on the number of lockers you will be building. Some lockers are also stackable if necessary.

2. Cut two pieces of plywood to serve as the base and the lid of the locker according to your measurements. The two bases should be the same size. Screw a 1-by-1-foot strip that is three-quarters inch offset from the edges into each base. Lay down four strips in total around the perimeter of your bases, forming a large square.

3. Cut side pieces of plywood to the size you measured, and attach them to the strips you've attached to the base with wood screws. Cut end pieces in the plywood, again based on your measurements, and do the same for the ends of the locker. Attach side panels with wood screws to the side and end pieces at their joints.

4. Insert 1-by-1-foot strips of lumber and screw the end and side pieces to it at the intersections of the end and side pieces. Leave a 1-inch gap at the top. This method joins the corners and reinforces the structure at the corners. Place corner molding (wood or metal) over the exterior of the side/end joints and screw the molding into place with woodscrews. This further reinforces the corner joints.

5. Place the cap piece you prepared on the top of the locker, ensuring a snug fit. Attach two hasps, one on each side, so that you can secure the locker. Take the lid off and caulk the interior seams with silicone sealant and allow to dry. Attach a handle to each end of the locker so it can easily be picked up. Paint or treat the locker however you wish.

Tips & Warnings

• Lockers can be stackable as well, depending on the weight of the lockers. Place one locker on top of the other using the handles you've installed on each.

• Attach feet to the locker if you are placing it outdoors.

• Whenever using power tools or sharp objects, always wear protective goggles, gloves and long sleeves for added protection.

References

• Ana White: Single Locker Cabinet
• Renovate the Roost: Locker Room Plans