Shopping

Decor I Adore for Fabulous Outdoor Living in Pinks Peaches Oranges and Reds

05.06.13
Project Image

I hope you all had a festive Cinco de Mayo yesterday and that your weather was nice enough to let you enjoy some time outdoors! I have a feeling some of you are still experiencing winter weather conditions and for that, consider me sending warm weather thoughts your way…

Personally, I can't stop thinking about my outdoor space. Aside from kiddo rooms it's one of my favorite spaces to decorate and plan for since it has an uncanny ability to mentally let you feel as if you are someplace else…. someplace amazing… like on a vacation… if you do it right, that is.

I'm having a hard time nailing down my particular color scheme and direction this year. I love the yellows from this setup here, but I am always drawn to the softer side of the color palette as well. This mood board was inspired by my favorite hibiscus variety. It has the most amazing mix of peaches, pinks, whites, and reds and I think it might be a very strong contender for my own space. We shall see which personality wins out in the end, I suppose.

Till then you can shop both looks from my Outdoor Living Board and if you would like to join Luvocracy and create your own shopable boards, click here!

Plans

Free DIY Furniture Plans to Build a Havana Islita Outdoor Ottoman

05.04.13

You Can Build This! The Design Confidential Free DIY Furniture Plans to Build a Havana Islita Outdoor Ottoman

Free DIY Furniture Plans to Build a Havana Islita Outdoor Ottoman! We did it! all 3 pieces, now you can get this collection built in time for summer bbq’s and outdoor fun! Yahoo! We covered the corner chair and the armless chair and of course for all 3 pieces in the collection, click here!

As with all of our plans, you are building at your own risk and you should have a firm understanding of building in general before you attempt many of our plans (some are easy as pie and perfect for beginners). With that, go forth, have fun, take lots of pictures and share them in a showcase on the site or on social media with the hashtag #builtTDCtuff and we will share our faves! Be sure to tag @thedesignconfidential on Instagram / FB and @thedesconf on Twitter / Pinterest. If you are a blogger and you post about your build, don’t forget to include a link to your post on your showcase here. Don’t forget… for all of our newer plans, clicking on the images will let them expand to enormous sizes with much greater clarity. The older plans may need updating so please let us know if you need one fixed!

You Can Build This! The Design Confidential Free DIY Furniture Plans to Build a Havana Islita Outdoor Ottoman

$25-$50

  • 2 – 2×2 at 8’
  • 5 – 1×2 at 8’

 

  •  4 – 2×2 at 11” – Legs
  • 4 – 2×2 at 26” – Stretchers
  • For the Slat option:
  • 5 – 1×2 at 26” – Cleats
  • 10 – 1×2 at 26” – Slats

Before beginning to build, always check in on my site to make sure you have the most up to date set of plans, I occasionally update and change the plans to make the building process easier or to allow for less expensive purchasing of materials! Read through the entire set of instructions and all comments before beginning this project. If you print out or save plans, be sure to check in on my site to be sure you have the most up to date set of plans, as I occasionally update things for ease of building or buying. If you are new to building, read through the GETTING STARTED section and other articles found under the BUILD tab in the menu on my site, it has valuable information about how to get started, tools and techniques. If you are unfamiliar with the finishing process, visit my Finishing school for some tips and tricks for painting like a pro and for special finishing practices. Use glue to secure your joints and Consider Painting or Staining individual sections prior to assembling. This makes the paint application virtually flawless. Coat with a spray on Poly or Wipe on Poly to protect your finish and your piece and it will last for ages. Adhere to all safety standards and guidelines, and be sure you follow safety protocol throughout your build. If you are unsure about whether you are building safely, run a quick online search for the tool or technique you are using, or contact me via email or post to the forum before you move ahead. My contact info can be found in the menu of my site.

Cut the pieces for the legs and the stretchers. Set the Kreg jig for 1-1/2” material and drill pocket holes in each end of the stretchers. Secure to the legs using glue and 2-1/2” pocket hole screws.

If using the webbing, attach the webbing to the frame according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

If using the slats, continue as follows:

Cut the pieces for the cleats. Set the Kreg jig for ¾” material and drill pocket holes in each end. Position as shown then secure using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws.

Cut the pieces for the slats. Position the slats with approximately 1” spacing between them. Secure to the cleats using glue and countersunk 1-1/4” screws.

Fill any Screw, Nail or Pocket Holes, Sand and Finish as Desired. For Finishing Tips and Tricks visit my Finishing School

**Disclaimer: Some rights reserved. Private use only. Feel Free to link to any of my plans so long as you provide an adequate link back to the appropriate post! Plans from this page are not to be used for commercial purposes or republished without the express written consent of Rayan Turner, The Design Confidential I hope to provide accurate plans, however, I cannot guarantee each plan for accuracy. Not every plan that I post has been built and tested, so you are building at your own risk. It is recommended that you have a clear understanding of how the project works before beginning any project. Please contact me if you find an error or inaccuracy so that I might fix it.

Design / Shopping

Lighting Trendsetter: Nebular and Organic Light Fixtures

05.03.13
Project Image

This post sponsored by Golden Age, all opinions are my own.

If it's true what they say, and history repeats itself, then the masses (that's us) generally follow when the style pendulum swings from a love of industrial to something more natural and organic. A general adoration of all things vintage and industrial has swept the globe over the last many years, without doubt, and has in fact begun to morph into a new trend toward vintage items with a more organic quality. 

True to historical form, I’ve noticed a lovely reemergence and redesign of nebular organic lighting fixtures lately, and I for one couldn’t be happier about this. As someone who loves a nod to the past, but doesn’t want to sacrifice that modern sensibility I’ve grown to love and need, these beauties are perfectly suited to my taste, with their retro style yet undeniably modern vibe and unquestionably organic feel!

What I find really exciting about the direction this genre of lighting has taken is the immense variety of representations that have manifested within this look. It’s incredible… From modern and minimal to grand and organic with everything in between, lighting designers have utterly outdone themselves!

As part of my partnership with Golden Age, I will be bringing you new features each month and chatting all about Lighting and Home Decor. Such a huge part of any room's decor. I hope you enjoy these, and if you would like to check out previous lighting articles, click here.

1 | 2 | 3 | via | 4 | 5

Plans

Free DIY Furniture Plans to Build a Havana Islita Outdoor Corner Chair

05.01.13
You Can Build This! The Design Confidential Free DIY Furniture Plans to Build a Havana Islita Outdoor Corner Chair

We covered the armless chair here, and now the corner piece! You are just about finished with the pieces you need to make this beauty for your outdoor space! Throw in the ottoman and you are good to go! Arrange the pieces into a sectional or a sofa with a chaise and enjoy!! Xx…Rayan!

You Can Build This! The Design Confidential Free DIY Furniture Plans to Build a Havana Islita Outdoor Corner Chair

$125-$150

  • 6 – 2×2 at 8’
  • 12 – 1×2 at 8’

 

  • 3 – 2×2 at 12” – Angled Back Piece
  • 1 – 2×2 at 11” – Front Legs
  • 3 – 2×2 at 24” – Back Legs
  • 2 – 2×2 at 9-3/4” – Upper Side Stretchers
  • 2 – 2×2 at 38” – Lower Side Stretchers
  • 6 – 2×2 at 38” – Stretchers
  • 1 – 2×2 at 26” – Stretcher
  • 1 – 2×2 at 28-1/4” – Stretcher
  • For the Slat option:
  • 7 – 1×2 at 38” – Longer Shelf Slats
  • 7 – 1×2 at 28-1/4” – Shorter Shelf Slats
  • 10 – 1×2 at 28-1/4” – Back Slats
  • 5 – 1×2 at 26” – Cleats
  • 10 – 1×2 at 26” – Slats

Before beginning to build, always check in on my site to make sure you have the most up to date set of plans, I occasionally update and change the plans to make the building process easier or to allow for less expensive purchasing of materials! Read through the entire set of instructions and all comments before beginning this project. If you print out or save plans, be sure to check in on my site to be sure you have the most up to date set of plans, as I occasionally update things for ease of building or buying. If you are new to building, read through the GETTING STARTED section and other articles found under the BUILD tab in the menu on my site, it has valuable information about how to get started, tools and techniques. If you are unfamiliar with the finishing process, visit my Finishing school for some tips and tricks for painting like a pro and for special finishing practices. Use glue to secure your joints and Consider Painting or Staining individual sections prior to assembling. This makes the paint application virtually flawless. Coat with a spray on Poly or Wipe on Poly to protect your finish and your piece and it will last for ages. Adhere to all safety standards and guidelines, and be sure you follow safety protocol throughout your build. If you are unsure about whether you are building safely, run a quick online search for the tool or technique you are using, or contact me via email or post to the forum before you move ahead. My contact info can be found in the menu of my site.

Cut the pieces for the angled back. Cut the angle in the top and bottom as shown (approximately 11 degrees).  Set the Kreg jig for 1-1/2” material and drill pocket holes in each end of the pieces. There will be a right and a left!

Cut the pieces for the legs and the side stretchers. Drill pocket holes in the stretchers as shown. Assemble the side frames using glue and 2-1/2” pocket hole screws.

You Can Build This! The Design Confidential Free DIY Furniture Plans to Build a Havana Islita Outdoor Corner Chair Cut the pieces for the remaining stretchers and the back leg. Drill pocket holes in each end then secure using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws.

Cut the piece for the center back piece. This piece will be a little tricky in that the angles need to be cut from edge to edge instead of side to side in order for it to be positioned correctly. Drill pocket holes in each end and position as shown. Secure using glue and 2-1/2” pocket hole screws.

Cut the pieces for the shelf slats. Set the Kreg jig for ¾” material and drill pocket holes in each end. Position as shown then secure using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws. The front face of the slats will be flush with the top face of the frame.

If using the webbing, attach the webbing to the frame according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

If using the slats, continue as follows:

Cut the pieces for the back slats. Cut them all the longer length, and cut the 11 degree angle in one end. (There will be five right slats and five left slats) There will be approximately 1” between the slats. Starting with the upper pieces, drill pocket holes in each end. Position as shown then secure using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws. Mark the position for the next slats and cut them to length. Drill pocket holes in each end of the slats then secure using glue and 1-1/4” pocket holes. Continue in this manner for the remaining slats.

Cut the pieces for the cleats. Drill pocket holes in each end. Position as shown and secure using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws.

Cut the pieces for the seat slats. Position the slats with approximately 1” spacing between them. Secure to the cleats using glue and countersunk 1-1/4” screws.

Fill any Screw, Nail or Pocket Holes, Sand and Finish as Desired. For Finishing Tips and Tricks visit my Finishing School

**Disclaimer: Some rights reserved. Private use only. Feel Free to link to any of my plans so long as you provide an adequate link back to the appropriate post! Plans from this page are not to be used for commercial purposes or republished without the express written consent of Rayan Turner, The Design Confidential I hope to provide accurate plans, however, I cannot guarantee each plan for accuracy. Not every plan that I post has been built and tested, so you are building at your own risk. It is recommended that you have a clear understanding of how the project works before beginning any project. Please contact me if you find an error or inaccuracy so that I might fix it.

Plans

Free DIY Furniture Plans to Build an Original Office Collection One Shelf Cabinet

04.30.13
Project Image

Free DIY Furniture Plans to Build an Original Office Collection One Shelf Cabinet. Another notch on our totem pole for the Original Office Collection! All of the the components in this collection can be mixed and matched. The length of the top will be cut separately, and depends on the number of components used with at least 24” for leg room if using as a desk. Xx…Rayan

Estimated Cost

$25-$50

Dimensions
Dimensions for This Project
Tools
  • Tape Measure
  • Saw – Jig, Circular, or Miter
  • Drill
  • Brad nailer
  • Square
  • Sander
  • Kreg Jig
Lumber
  • 1 sheet of ¾” plywood
Materials
  • 1-1/4” pocket hole screws
  • 1-1/4” brad nails
  • Edge banding for plywood
  • Wood filler
  • Sandpaper
  • Wood glue
  • Finishing Supplies
Cut List
  •  2 – ¾” plywood at 20” x 27-1/4” – Sides
  • 1 – ¾” plywood at 1-1/2” x 16-1/8” – Upper Stretchers
  • 2 – ¾” plywood at 2-1/2”x 16-1/8” – Lower Stretchers
  • 1 – ¾” plywood at 16-1/8” x 20” – Bottom
  • 1 – ¾” plywood at 16-1/8” x 24” – Back
  • 1 – ¾” plywood at 16-1/8” x 19-1/4” – Shelf
  • 1 – ¾” plywood at 17-5/8” x 20-3/4” – Top
  • 1 – ¾” plywood at 2-1/2” x 17-5/8” – Trim
Instructions

Before beginning to build, always check in on my site to make sure you have the most up to date set of plans, I occasionally update and change the plans to make the building process easier or to allow for less expensive purchasing of materials! Read through the entire set of instructions and all comments before beginning this project. If you print out or save plans, be sure to check in on my site to be sure you have the most up to date set of plans, as I occasionally update things for ease of building or buying. If you are new to building, read through the GETTING STARTED section and other articles found under the BUILD tab in the menu on my site, it has valuable information about how to get started, tools and techniques. If you are unfamiliar with the finishing process, visit my Finishing school for some tips and tricks for painting like a pro and for special finishing practices. Use glue to secure your joints and Consider Painting or Staining individual sections prior to assembling. This makes the paint application virtually flawless. Coat with a spray on Poly or Wipe on Poly to protect your finish and your piece and it will last for ages. Adhere to all safety standards and guidelines, and be sure you follow safety protocol throughout your build. If you are unsure about whether you are building safely, run a quick online search for the tool or technique you are using, or contact me via email or post to the forum before you move ahead. My contact info can be found in the menu of my site.

Step 1
Step 1

Edge banding will be applied to the exposed edges of the plywood before assembly.

Cut the pieces for the sides and the stretchers. Set the Kreg jig for ¾” material and drill pocket holes in each end of the stretcher pieces, as well as the top edge of the sides. Assemble as shown using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws

Step 2
Step 2

 Cut the piece for the bottom and position as shown. Secure to the stretchers using glue and 1-1/4” brad nails.

Step 3
Step 3

 Cut the piece for the back and drill pocket holes in all four edges. Position as shown and secure using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws.

Step 4
Step 4

Cut the piece for the shelf and drill pocket holes in the side and back edges. Position as shown and secure using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws.

Step 5
Step 5

 Cut the piece for the top. The front will overlap by ¾”. Secure using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws through the holes drilled in the back and side pieces.

Step 6

Cut the piece for the trim. Secure in place using glue and 1-1/4” brad nails.

Finishing Instructions

Fill any Screw, Nail or Pocket Holes, Sand and Finish as Desired. For Finishing Tips and Tricks visit my Finishing School

**Disclaimer: Some rights reserved. Private use only. Feel Free to link to any of my plans so long as you provide an adequate link back to the appropriate post! Plans from this page are not to be used for commercial purposes or republished without the express written consent of Rayan Turner, The Design Confidential I hope to provide accurate plans, however, I cannot guarantee each plan for accuracy. Not every plan that I post has been built and tested, so you are building at your own risk. It is recommended that you have a clear understanding of how the project works before beginning any project. Please contact me if you find an error or inaccuracy so that I might fix it.

Showcase

Builders Showcase: Rustic Outdoor Table with Trough

04.30.13
Project Image

I used pine, but did not pocket hole the top together to allow for shrinkage. The stainless trough was made by a sheet metal fabricator friend of mine. It is tapered to the center with a hose connection and shut of valve attached. I am using it and everyone who sees it wants me to make them one

Estimated Cost

The cost was $75,00. for the lumber and screws The trough was free, but it would have cost $375,00 if I had to buy one!!

Plans

Free DIY Furniture Plans to Build a Havana Islita Outdoor Armless Chair

04.29.13
You Can Build This! The Design Confidential Furniture Plans to Build a Havana Islita Outdoor Armless Chair

Free DIY Furniture Plans to Build a Havana Islita Outdoor Armless Chair! At long last we are bringing this baby BACK! Full frontal fabulousness or something along those lines. Can I get a yahoo? Plans for the Corner Unit and Ottoman as well.

Note: there are 2 options for building these pieces, one using wood and one using nylon strapping. Choose whichever you prefer!

As with all of our plans, you are building at your own risk and you should have a firm understanding of building in general before you attempt many of our plans (some are easy as pie and perfect for beginners). With that, go forth, have fun, take lots of pictures and share them in a showcase on the site or on social media with the hashtag #builtTDCtuff and we will share our faves! Be sure to tag @thedesignconfidential on Instagram / FB and @thedesconf on Twitter / Pinterest. If you are a blogger and you post about your build, don’t forget to include a link to your post on your showcase here. Don’t forget… for all of our newer plans, clicking on the images will let them expand to enormous sizes with much greater clarity. The older plans may need updating so please let us know if you need one fixed!

You Can Build This! The Design Confidential Furniture Plans to Build a Havana Islita Outdoor Armless Chair

$25-$50

  • 6 – 2×2 at 8’
  • 12 – 1×2 at 8’
  • 2 – 2×2 at 12” – Angled Back Piece
  • 2 – 2×2 at 11” – Front Legs
  • 2 – 2×2 at 24” – Back Legs
  • 2 – 2×2 at 9-3/4” – Upper Side Stretchers
  • 2 – 2×2 at 38” – Lower Side Stretchers
  • 5 – 2×2 at 26” – Stretchers
  • For the Slat option:
  • 5 – 1×2 at 26” – Cleats
  • 22 – 1×2 at 26” – Slats

Before beginning to build, always check in on my site to make sure you have the most up to date set of plans, I occasionally update and change the plans to make the building process easier or to allow for less expensive purchasing of materials! Read through the entire set of instructions and all comments before beginning this project. If you print out or save plans, be sure to check in on my site to be sure you have the most up to date set of plans, as I occasionally update things for ease of building or buying. If you are new to building, read through the GETTING STARTED section and other articles found under the BUILD tab in the menu on my site, it has valuable information about how to get started, tools and techniques. If you are unfamiliar with the finishing process, visit my Finishing school for some tips and tricks for painting like a pro and for special finishing practices. Use glue to secure your joints and Consider Painting or Staining individual sections prior to assembling. This makes the paint application virtually flawless. Coat with a spray on Poly or Wipe on Poly to protect your finish and your piece and it will last for ages. Adhere to all safety standards and guidelines, and be sure you follow safety protocol throughout your build. If you are unsure about whether you are building safely, run a quick online search for the tool or technique you are using, or contact me via email or post to the forum before you move ahead. My contact info can be found in the menu of my site.

Cut the pieces for the angled back. Cut the angle in the top and bottom as shown (approximately 11 degrees).  Set the Kreg jig for 1-1/2” material and drill pocket holes in each end of the pieces.

Cut the pieces for the legs and the side stretchers. Drill pocket holes in the stretchers as shown. Assemble the side frames using glue and 2-1/2” pocket hole screws.

Cut the pieces for the longer stretchers and drill pocket holes in each end. Position as shown and secure using glue and 2-1/2” pocket hole screws.

Cut the pieces for the shelf slats. Set the Kreg jig for ¾” material and drill pocket holes in each end. Position as shown then secure using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws. The front face of the slats will be flush with the top face of the frame.

If using the webbing, attach the webbing to the frame according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

If using the slats, continue as follows:

Cut the pieces for the back slats and drill pocket holes in each end.  Position as shown then secure using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws. The front face of the slats will be flush with the outside face of the frame.

Cut the pieces for the cleats. Drill pocket holes in each end. Position as shown and secure using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws.

Cut the pieces for the seat slats. Position the slats with approximately 1” spacing between them. Secure to the cleats using glue and countersunk 1-1/4” screws.

Finishing Instructions

Fill any Screw, Nail or Pocket Holes, Sand and Finish as Desired. For Finishing Tips and Tricks visit my Finishing School

**Disclaimer: Some rights reserved. Private use only. Feel Free to link to any of my plans so long as you provide an adequate link back to the appropriate post! Plans from this page are not to be used for commercial purposes or republished without the express written consent of Rayan Turner, The Design Confidential I hope to provide accurate plans, however, I cannot guarantee each plan for accuracy. Not every plan that I post has been built and tested, so you are building at your own risk. It is recommended that you have a clear understanding of how the project works before beginning any project. Please contact me if you find an error or inaccuracy so that I might fix it.

Design / Shopping

Lighting Crush: Semi Flush Ceiling Mount

04.27.13
Project Image

I'm excited to announce a new partnership between TDC and Golden Age Usa! Along these lines I will be bringing two fun new columns to this site on a monthly basis as well as contributing to their site, and I hope you enjoy the eye candy and idea bringing as much as I do! Yahoo!

Today we are talking about making your builder grade homes a bit more 'you' by changing out those boob lights… yes you know the ones to which I refer. And yes I said boob. Let's just get that out of the way right up front… 

It's something most people don't really think about doing, but let's just imagine the impact this kind of change can have. Changing out your lighting is actually pretty easy and fairly quick, within the realm of DIY home improvement projects. Heck, even I can do this task with the need of the hubster if I so choose. Easy Peasy and if you don't want to stray too far outside the lines of those boob lights or have an issue with clearance (perhaps in an entry way or near a door), a semi flush mount light is perhaps ideal for you! 

I personally love the idea of giving a small-ish light fixture a ton of personality. And from this day forward you will hear me repeat this constantly, I'm sure… but the fact is there are 3 things that make a room feel complete: Lighting, Curtains, and Art. If you do nothing else beside adding furniture but add lamps or fixtures, hang curtains and throw something up on the wall, your room will feel amazingly complete… promise!! 

I thought I would share some amazing semi flush light fixtures from around the web. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by all of the options, but hopefully this grouping will help you see the variety and of course the awesomeness of what can be found! 

To read the first post in this series for wall sconces, click here.

This post brought to you by Golden Age Usa, all opinions are my own, duh…

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8

1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 7 | 8

Plans

Free DIY Furniture Plans to Build a Ballard Designs Inspired Original Office Collection Two Drawer Cabinet

04.26.13
Project Image

Free DIY Furniture Plans to Build a Ballard Designs Inspired Original Office Collection Two Drawer Cabinet! ** The components can be mixed and matched. The length of the top will be cut separately, and depends on the number of components used with at least 24” for leg room if using as a desk. **

Estimated Cost

$25-$50

Dimensions
Dimensions for This Project
Tools
  • Tape Measure
  • Saw – Jig, Circular, or Miter
  • Drill
  • Brad nailer
  • Square
  • Sander
  • Kreg Jig
Lumber
  • 1 sheet of ¾” plywood
Materials
  • 1-1/4” pocket hole screws
  • 1-1/4” brad nails
  • Edge banding for plywood
  • 2 sets of 18” drawer slides
  • Wood filler
  • Sandpaper
  • Wood glue
  • Finishing Supplies
Cut List
  •  2 – ¾” plywood at 20” x 27-1/4” – Sides
  • 2 – ¾” plywood at 1-1/2” x 16-1/8” – Upper Stretchers
  • 2 – ¾” plywood at 2-1/2”x 16-1/8” – Lower Stretchers
  • 1 – ¾” plywood at 16-1/8” x 20” – Bottom
  • 1 – ¾” plywood at 16-1/8” x 24” – Back
  • 2 – ¾” plywood at 1-1/2″ x 16-1/8″ – Stretchers
  • 1 – ¾” plywood at 17-5/8” x 20-3/4” – Top
  • 1 – ¾” plywood at 2-1/2” x 17-5/8” – Trim
  • 2 – ¾” plywood at 13-3/8” x 17-1/4” – Drawer Bottom
  • 4 – ¾” plywood at 10-3/8” x 17-1/4” – Drawer Sides
  • 2 – ¾” plywood at 10-3/8” x 14-7/8” – Drawer Back
  • 2 – ¾”plywood at 11-3/8” x 16-5/8” – Drawer Front
Instructions

Before beginning to build, always check in on my site to make sure you have the most up to date set of plans, I occasionally update and change the plans to make the building process easier or to allow for less expensive purchasing of materials! Read through the entire set of instructions and all comments before beginning this project. If you print out or save plans, be sure to check in on my site to be sure you have the most up to date set of plans, as I occasionally update things for ease of building or buying. If you are new to building, read through the GETTING STARTED section and other articles found under the BUILD tab in the menu on my site, it has valuable information about how to get started, tools and techniques. If you are unfamiliar with the finishing process, visit my Finishing school for some tips and tricks for painting like a pro and for special finishing practices. Use glue to secure your joints and Consider Painting or Staining individual sections prior to assembling. This makes the paint application virtually flawless. Coat with a spray on Poly or Wipe on Poly to protect your finish and your piece and it will last for ages. Adhere to all safety standards and guidelines, and be sure you follow safety protocol throughout your build. If you are unsure about whether you are building safely, run a quick online search for the tool or technique you are using, or contact me via email or post to the forum before you move ahead. My contact info can be found in the menu of my site.

Step 1
Step 1

Edge banding will be applied to the exposed edges of the plywood before assembly.

Cut the pieces for the sides and the stretchers. Set the Kreg jig for ¾” material and drill pocket holes in each end of the stretcher pieces, as well as the top edge of the sides. Assemble as shown using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws.

Step 2
Step 2

Cut the piece for the bottom and position as shown. Secure to the stretchers using glue and 1-1/4” brad nails.

Step 3
Step 3

Cut the piece for the back and drill pocket holes in all four edges. Position as shown and secure using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws.

Step 4
Step 4

Cut the pieces for the stretchers and drill pocket holes in each end. Position as shown then secure using glue and 1-1/4″ pocket hole acrews.

Step 5
Step 5

Cut the piece for the top. The front will overlap by ¾”. Secure using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws through the holes drilled in the back and side pieces.

Step 6

Cut the piece for the trim. Secure in place using glue and 1-1/4” brad nails.

Step 7
Step 7
Step 7
Step 7

Cut the pieces for the drawers. Drill pocket holes in each end of the side pieces as well as all four edges of the bottom. Assemble as shown using glue and 1-1/4″ pocket hole screws. The fronts will overlap the drawer opening by 3/8” on the sides, and ¼” at the top and bottom.

Install the drawer slides according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For an easy tutorial, click here. Make any necessary adjustments.

Finishing Instructions

Fill any Screw, Nail or Pocket Holes, Sand and Finish as Desired. For Finishing Tips and Tricks visit my Finishing School

**Disclaimer: Some rights reserved. Private use only. Feel Free to link to any of my plans so long as you provide an adequate link back to the appropriate post! Plans from this page are not to be used for commercial purposes or republished without the express written consent of Rayan Turner, The Design Confidential I hope to provide accurate plans, however, I cannot guarantee each plan for accuracy. Not every plan that I post has been built and tested, so you are building at your own risk. It is recommended that you have a clear understanding of how the project works before beginning any project. Please contact me if you find an error or inaccuracy so that I might fix it.

Studio

Home Depot and the Do It Herself Workshop

04.25.13
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Post sponsored by The Home Depot, but all opinions are my own, of course!

I couldn't be more excited to partner with Home Depot for a fabulous Do It Herself Workshop on May 16th (mark your calendars people) and a Twitter Party on May 2nd! That's right people, the ladies have spoken. The Home Depot is expanding their Do-It-Herself Workshops to more of The Home Depot Stores. It’s time to get hands-on, so find a local workshop in your area today. If you are local to the Sacramento region, I hope you will join me for this at the Stanford Ranch Store (10001 Fairway Drive, Roseville, CA 95678), I can't wait to meet you! It's going to be such a fun night…

Are you a gardening guru? Are you a gardening guru? Learn how to make your own succulent garden with The Home Depot. Registerfor the May 16 DIH Workshop today! Get inspired by Pinterest on May 16th from 6:30pm to 8:00pm EST at The Home Depot Do-It-Herself Workshop. Join us and The Home Depot on May 2 at 8:00 PM for a one-hour Twitter Party to learn about the Do-It-Herself Workshops: Inspired by Pinterest and succulent gardens! This will only be my second twitter party ever, but the first one was so fun and I loved it, very truly! I hope you will hang with us for this too. You will see what I mean about the twitter parties. Fast paced and pure DIH adrenaline! 

The Home Depot wants everyone to have the skills and confidence to be a first class do-it-yourselfer. These free weekly workshops are a great way to get step-by-step instructions and hands on experience learning to do basic repairs and easy home improvements. Did you know The Home Depot holds DIH workshops monthly? Me either, so I was super excited to hear this great news…Check your local The Home Depot store to see if it’s holding Do-It-Herself Workshops. These aren’t designed specifically for women, but a lot of ladies do attend. Register today with our online registration link.  With clear instructions, plenty of time for questions and answers and a wonderful demonstration, Do-It-Herself Workshops will give you a dose of do-it-yourself inspiration. More and more women are taking on do-it-yourself projects these days. Join in on the fun with participants and The Home Depot associates at theDIH Workshop: Inspired by Pinterest

So here is what will be on the agenda for May 16th:

We are going to create a Pinterest-inspired succulent garden by identifying and selecting succulents to create a container garden. Register today if you want to attend this one or one in your area! Succulents can be used for decorating- on a sunny, dining room table, hanging on the front door, or in pots around the yard. Learn more and join us at The Home Depot Inspired by Pinterest: Succulent Gardens workshop.

Of course I couldn't let this opportunity pass without posting a couple of stylish succulent tutorials to top it all off, since that is what we will be doing at the DIH Workshop! Yay! Stay tuned for those in the coming weeks, I think you will LOVE my take on them, at least I do…

Disclosure Language:

The Home Depot partnered with bloggers such as me for their Twitter Party and DIH Workshop program. As part of this program, I received compensation for my time. They did not tell me what to purchase or what to say about any product mentioned in these posts. The Home Depot believes that consumers and bloggers are free to form their own opinions and share them in their own words. The Home Depot’s policies align with WOMMA Ethics Code, FTC guidelines and social media engagement recommendations.

Design / Shopping

A Little Luv For Your Outdoor Living Space in Citron

04.24.13
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I'm dreaming of a magical outdoor space, and those of you who are still in the throws of winter like weather are very likely doing the same! Bring on the sunshine and the amazing outdoor decor while you are at it, Mother Nature…

Since we are in a new home, I am obviously going to decorate each and every new space in an entirely different way, duh… In the words of my East Asian friends and bretheren… “Same Same, Only Different”. Yup. This is of course because I simply can't afford to buy an entirely new wardrobe for my home, and I will be using many of the same pieces, only in an entirely new and different way! Yay! 

I have some fairly major projects going on in every single room of my home and yard, at the very same moment, cuz I like to keep things interesting… and chaotic of course. 

So today I am going to share some of my crazy pants ideas for my outdoor living space and courtyard (I have a courtyard that my home wraps around and that connects to the back yard….squeeeeellll, isn't that genius!!!). AND… I'm sharing another amazing thing with you fine friends… a new obsession of mine and one I hope you will love as much as I do (I already know you will, but let's just play it humble shall we?)! This little gem is call Luvocracy and it's awesome-sauce! It's by invitation only, so I am extending all of you gorgeous people that invitation right here! No waiting in line for you guys… cool right?

So you know how you guys all ADORE Pinterest? Ya, me too… well this new thang is a bit like Pinterest if it were to marry and have babies with Amazon's Afilliate Program. Yep, it's a shopping and recommendation site that acts like Pinterest but that allows you to earn commission for your amazing taste. I KNOW you all have amazing taste. And just in case you don't, or you aren't sure if you do, you can join and follow my personal recommendations for furnishings and decor! Things that I simply can't live without! Can I get a YAHOO!!

You don't have to be a blogger to use this venue, and still your friends and family can see the fabulous things you are dying to have and can purchase them too, based on your recommendation that they do so! Commission earned, baby cakes… LOVE that, don't you?

So you know those Mood Boards I like to create for you all (read…myself)? Well now they will be made and entirely shopable for those of you who love them as much as I do. AWESOME!! 

So come on over using this exclusive invite, (and no I am not affiliated in any way shape or form, this is just pure unadulterated love of the authentic kind) and check out what I'm loving now… Trust my taste while you are at it and you will always be 'in the know'! 

 

This Mood Board is created using items from my Outdoor Living Board. If you fall in love with something, go ahead and browse the board and buy if you like! I won't be madatchya! In fact I will be excited cuz I will earn a small commission and that is just plain rockin'…

I will be sharing a new outdoor design plan with you all in the next few days! Think pink… cuz it's definitely happening! 

Plans

Free DIY Furniture Plans to Build an Emmerson Nightstand

04.23.13
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Free DIY Furniture Plans to Build a West Elm Inspired Emmerson Nightstand! This collection is perfect for those of you who like a modern profile and also for those of you who prefer a more bohemian or even rustic profile! Finish your piece with stain in a striped pattern to reflect the original design more closely, or give this baby a shiny lacquer finish and some rockin' knobs and call it a day! Love! Xx… Rayan

Estimated Cost 

$50-$75

Dimensions 
Dimensions for This Project

Tools 
  • Tape Measure
  • Saw – Jig, Circular, or Miter
  • Drill
  • Square
  • Sander
  • Kreg Jig
  • Brad Nailer
Lumber 
  • One sheet of ¾” plywood
  • 1 – 1×3 at 3’ (or scraps)
  • 1 – 1×6 at 2’ (or scraps)
  • 1 – 1×8 at 6’
  • One quarter sheet of ¼” plywood
Materials 
  • 1-1/4” pocket hole screws
  • 1-1/4” brad nails
  • One set of 14” drawer slides
  • Drawer pull
  • Wood filler
  • Sandpaper
  • Wood glue
  • Finishing Supplies
Cut List 
  • 2 – 1×6 at 11” –Base
  • 1 – ¾” plywood at 15” x 20-1/2” – Bottom
  • 2 – 1×3 at 15” – Base Stretchers
  • 2 – ¾” plywood at 15” x 17-3/4” – Sides
  • 1 – ¾” plywood at 14-1/4” x 20-1/2” – Shelf
  • 1 – ¼” plywood at 17-3/4” x 22” – Back
  • 1 – ¾” plywood at 15-1/4” x 22” – Top
  • 2 – 1×8 at 12-1/2” – Drawer Box
  • 2 -1×8 at 19-1/2” – Drawer Box
  • 1 – ¼” plywood at 14” x 19-1/2” – Drawer Bottom
  • 1 – ¾” plywood at 9-3/8” x 20-1/4” – Drawer Front
Instructions 

Before beginning to build, always check in on my site to make sure you have the most up to date set of plans, I occasionally update and change the plans to make the building process easier or to allow for less expensive purchasing of materials! Read through the entire set of instructions and all comments before beginning this project. If you print out or save plans, be sure to check in on my site to be sure you have the most up to date set of plans, as I occasionally update things for ease of building or buying. If you are new to building, read through the GETTING STARTED section and other articles found under the BUILD tab in the menu on my site, it has valuable information about how to get started, tools and techniques. If you are unfamiliar with the finishing process, visit my Finishing school for some tips and tricks for painting like a pro and for special finishing practices. Use glue to secure your joints and Consider Painting or Staining individual sections prior to assembling. This makes the paint application virtually flawless. Coat with a spray on Poly or Wipe on Poly to protect your finish and your piece and it will last for ages. Adhere to all safety standards and guidelines, and be sure you follow safety protocol throughout your build. If you are unsure about whether you are building safely, run a quick online search for the tool or technique you are using, or contact me via email or post to the forum before you move ahead. My contact info can be found in the menu of my site.

Step 1
Step 1

Step 1 

Apply optional edge banding to exposed edges of plywood before assembly.

Cut the pieces for the base and bottom. Set the Kreg jig for ¾” material and drill pocket holes in one long edge of each base piece. Also drill pocket holes in each end of the bottom to attach the sides. Position the base pieces on the bottom as shown and attach using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws.

Cut the pieces for the base stretchers. Drill pocket holes in each end as well as one long edge of each piece. Attach to the bottom and existing base pieces using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws.

Step 2

Step 2 

Cut the pieces for the sides. Drill pocket holes in the top edge of each piece to attach the top. Attach to the bottom using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws.

Step 3

Step 3 

Cut the piece for the shelf. Drill pocket holes in each edge. Secure to the sides as shown using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws orienting the pocket holes down toward the bottom. The shelf will be set ¾” back from the front edge of the sides. 

Step 4

Step 4 

Cut the piece for the back and attach using glue and 1-1/4” brad nails.

Step 5

Step 5 

Cut the piece for the top. Attach to the sides using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws. 

Step 6

Cut the pieces for the drawer box. Assemble as shown using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws. Cut the piece for the drawer bottom. Attach to the drawer box using glue and 1-1/4” brad nails. Attach the drawer slide hardware according to the manufacturer’s instructions. For an easy tutorial, go here. Make any necessary adjustments.

Step 7

Step 7 

Cut the piece for the drawer front. There will be a 1/8” gap at the bottom and sides. For another easy tutorial, go here. Attach the drawer pull.

Finishing Instructions 

Fill any Screw, Nail or Pocket Holes, Sand and Finish as Desired. For Finishing Tips and Tricks visit my Finishing School

**Disclaimer: Some rights reserved. Private use only. Feel Free to link to any of my plans so long as you provide an adequate link back to the appropriate post! Plans from this page are not to be used for commercial purposes or republished without the express written consent of Rayan Turner, The Design Confidential I hope to provide accurate plans, however, I cannot guarantee each plan for accuracy. Not every plan that I post has been built and tested, so you are building at your own risk. It is recommended that you have a clear understanding of how the project works before beginning any project. Please contact me if you find an error or inaccuracy so that I might fix it.