How to Build a Taller Step Stool
Step stools provide the extra height needed to reach items that are located high on shelves or in high cabinets.
They often are used in the kitchen or pantry.
Children use step stools in the bathroom to reach the sink when washing their hands and brushing their teeth.
Step stools are a safe way to reach something that is out of reach.
A taller step stool sometimes is needed for extra high places, but it is difficult to find a tall step stool in stores.
A simple solution is to build one yourself.
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Things You'll Need
- 2 3/4-by-24-by-24-inch plywood panels
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Jigsaw
- 1 3/4-by-18-by-24-inch plywood panel
- 4 3/4-by-12-by-18-inch plywood panels
- Screw gun
- 1 1/4-inch coated deck screws
- 120-grit sand paper
- Wood finish of your choice
Instructions
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How to Build a Taller Step Stool
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1
Position the two 3/4-by-24-by-24-inch plywood panels on a work surface.
Measure 12 inches from one side of each panel. Mark this measurement with a pencil.
Measure down 12 inches from this mark.
Mark that measurement. Draw a lines connecting the pencil marks.
Use a jigsaw to cut along the lines to cut out a 12-by-12-inch box from each panel. These panels are the sides of the stool. -
2
Position the two sides so that they are parallel to each other, and approximately 18 inches apart.
Place the 3/4-by-18-by-24-inch plywood panel on the back side of the two panels.
This is the back of the stool.
Fasten the back to the sides using a screw gun and 1 1/4-inch coated deck screws. -
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3
Fasten one of the 3/4-by-12-by-18-inch plywood panels to each step of the stool sides using a screw gun and 1 1/4-inch coated deck screws.
Place the remaining two 3/4-by-12-by-18-inch plywood panels between the stool sides underneath the steps.
These are the risers.
Fasten the risers to the stool sides using a screw gun and 1 1/4-inch coated deck screws. -
4
Sand all of the exposed surfaces of the stool with 120-grit sandpaper.
Apply a wood finish of your choice to the stool.
Allow the stool to dry completely before using it.
Refer to the instructions on the finish container for drying times.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Adjust the height of the stool to your specific needs.
Wear eye protection when working with wood.
Follow tool safety instructions carefully for safe use.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Stool image by annalovisa from Fotolia.com
