Building a custom boot rack

• We are going to show you how to build a boot rack, step by step.
• It provides the perfect storage space for your welly boots. 
• This project doesn’t require too much time or experience to complete and uses materials that are all available from Wickes. 
• It should take a DIYer with moderate experience around 2 to 3 hours to complete.
  

• Make sure to measure the space where you wish to keep your boot rack. 
• Measure the largest boot to be stored and the number of boots as the size can be varied to suit your needs.
• Choose the right timber for where your rack will be placed.
• Using wood treatment will prolong the life of your rack if it is exposed to the elements.
• When working with exterior paint and brushes, work slowly to apply thin and even coats until you have your desired coverage.

• Always make sure that your chop saw is unplugged while you’re setting it up or changing accessories, to ensure your safety.
• Keeping the plug in-sight acts as a visual reminder to prevent accidents and hazards.
• For extra safety when using power tools and painting, be sure to wear protective equipment, including your ear defenders, goggles and a dust mask. 

Measuring up

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Use your largest pair of wellington boots as a reference point for the size of your rack.

Measure the inside height of your largest boot and make a note of it .

Measure the dimensions of the space where you plan to put your boot rack.

Measure and mark your timber ahead of time.

Cutting the materials

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Stack spare timber on your workbench at the same height as the bed of your chop saw, so long lengths of timber are supported when you’re cutting them.

Lay your scaffold board on the bed of your chop saw and clamp it into position.

Cut it to size according to your measurements, before using your new cut out to mark the measurements for two more identical cuts.

Cut two more, so that you have three in total.

Go over any rough edges with an orbital sander.

Cut dowels and go over them with your sandpaper to give them a smooth finish.

Once your cutting is complete, give your workspace a quick tidy up before moving on to the next step .

Constructing the boot rack

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Hold your casters in place and use a bradawl to mark the positions of each screw.

Drill pilot holes through the indentations to make fixing the casters easier and achieving a better finish.

Screw the casters into the pre-drilled holes .

Mark the location for the foot of your boot rack.

Hold it in position and secure it with two screws, making sure to drive them below the surface of the wood. 

Fix the other two planks together with screws .

Use the base planks as a guide for a straight edge by feeling the edges with your fingers and making sure that the three planks are sitting flush. Then using this scribe a line across the joined planks.

Placing and drilling your holes for the dowels

Divide your board into sections with your pencil, marking them out based on the size and shape of your boots.

Drill pilot holes for your dowels and then drill through them with your spade bit to expand them.

Use a sander to remove any rough edges and pencil marks, then go around the inside of the holes with sandpaper.

Flip it over and make sure all of the edges are lined up evenly.

Secure the base plank to the bottom.

Adding your dowels

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The dowels should be a tight fit in their pre-drilled holes. If they are too tight use sandpaper to make slightly smaller.

Wood glue can be used if required.

Preserving and decorating

Treating or preserving wood is a good way to make sure it stays protected and lasts longer.