Simple step stool for a child

This is a very simple step stool that can be used for a child (or an adult as well as it is very strong).
I made this step stool from one piece of 1" x 5" reclaimed lumber, and 12 wood screws.
You could use  a piece of 1" x 6", or 2" x 6" to make it a little taller.
(Click on the [i] at the top left of photos to see an enlarged version.)

Materials used
- One piece of 1" x 5" reclaimed cedar about 152 cm used (approx. 5')
- 12, 3 cm (1 1/4") wood screws

Tools used
- Table saw (a handheld circular saw, or a hand saw is also fine)
- Electric orbital sander (or sandpaper wrapped around a block of wood)
- Power drill
- Phillips screwdriver ("+" tip)
- Countersink drill bit

The attached Sketchup file shows the 3D assembled stool, and can be used to modify dimensions etc.

Step 1 Cutting the wood

I cut the 1" x 5" into the following lengths:
- 2 x 40.5 cm (top pieces)
- 2 x 22.5 cm (legs)
- 1 x 26 cm (support - also cut it to 8 cm width)

After cutting I sanded the edges to remove any rough burrs.
I sanded the surfaces of the wood with about 180 grit as I did not want it too smooth (people will be using it with socked or bare feet).

Comments

[Trelligan]

   A very simple, necessary thing.

   Actually, I would estimate that this construction should hold well above 500 lb / 225 kg. Just make sure that everything ends up square. Using a bit of rubber as specified will help to prevent rocking if the floor surface is a bit less flat than the shelf itself.

   This is important, because someone using this might be putting something heavy on a high shelf.

   Making the middle support less wide than the legs is also an excellent idea, allowing you to use in in a doorway or someplace where you need to bridge over something on a floor.

[canuckinjapan]

Thanks. I made this for my kids, but if intended for mainly adult use, I would recommend making it a little wider.

[Vince_33]

Lovely - many thanks!