When I saw the plans for the Vintage Crates posted, I wanted to make them and I had an awesome idea… I could use my plywood scraps left over from my kitchen remodel! I got to work the next day ripping and sanding all of my pieces.
I already had the supplies… I just bought the stain!
I cut two crates out of oak, and two out of birch. All of the material was 3/4″, and I assembled them with glue and 1-1/4″ brad nails. I was too lazy to cut the handholds so I purchased inexpensive handles to attach to the sides.
Projects like this also allow me to use finishes I wouldn't normally use. On the top crate in the picture (made out of Birch), I used Minwax Water-Based Stain in Blue Hawaii with Minwax Water-Based Wipe-On Poly. The stain is great but you have to work fast! It is better suited for small projects because it dries quickly. The Water-Based Wipe-On Poly dries way too fast. it is also great for small projects and I definitely would not use it on a large one. The lower crate (made out of Oak) in the picture was stained with one of my new favorites – Rustoleum Ultimate Wood Stain in Sunbleached and sealed with Minwax Polyurethane spray in Clear Satin. This stain is much easier to use (probably because of the oil base) and I think it looks fantastic! The sealer is definitely one of my favorites although I prefer this in the wipe-on version.
Thank you, Robohead, for a great plan! I was able to reduce my scrap pile!
