How to Build a Rolling Cart
Rolling carts are a versatile piece of furniture to have around the house or in the workplace. They provide a mobile work space and can store supplies on shelves underneath the cart top. You can make rolling carts with a variety of materials. Wooden rolling carts are an attractive option. They can be built in a workshop. An advantage to building your own rolling cart is that you can design it to your needs. It can be made to suit your home or workplace design.
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Things You'll Need
- 4 3/4 by 24 by 32-inch plywood sheets
- 4 3/4 by 24 by 24-inch plywood sheets
- Wood glue
- 1 box of finish nails
- Hammer
- Damp rag
- 4 casters, with correct screws provided
- Screwdriver
- 120-grit sandpaper
- Wood finish of your choice
Instructions
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1
Place two of the 3/4 by 24 by 32-inch plywood sheets parallel to each other approximately 24 inches apart on a work surface. These are the cart sides. Place one 3/4 by 24 by 24-inch plywood sheet between the sides at one end. This is the top. Place another 3/4 by 24 by 24-inch plywood sheet between the sides 8 inches down from the top. This is the top shelf. Place another 3/4 by 24 by 24-inch plywood sheet 16 inches down from the top. This is the bottom shelf.
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2
Apply a bead of wood glue on all of the joints of the top, shelves and sides. Fasten the top and shelves to the sides using a finish nail and hammer. Drive the nails through the sides into the ends of the top and shelves. Space the nails approximately 2 inches apart. Wipe off any excess wood glue with a damp rag.
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3
Place the cart on its side. Place the last 3/4 by 24 by 24-inch plywood sheet on top of the top edge of the cart side. This is the back of the cart and provides a backing for the shelves. Fasten the backing to the cart using finish nails and a hammer. This is not a structural joint so there is no need to apply wood glue. Space the nails evenly every two inches.
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4
Sand the surface of the cart with 120-grit sandpaper. Apply a wood finish of your choice. Allow the finish to dry according to the instructions provided with the finish.
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5
Flip the cart upside down. Place a caster on each corner of the cart. Fasten the casters to the cart using the provided wood screws and a screwdriver. Turn the cart upright.
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Tips & Warnings
Rolling carts are good for portable tools and electronics. Cut circles in the backing to allow access for power and networking cords for devices that will be stored on the shelves.
Wear eye protection when woodworking.
Follow wood finish safety precautions for safe use.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit dun cat - printer image by Maria Brzostowska from Fotolia.com
