Introduction: Easy Step Stool

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About: Hi, I am a Product Design student at National Institute of Design, Ahmedabad, India. I love making things. I am interested to work on simple products, Bags and accessories. Looking into future being in my cul…

This is my classroom project in which I made a simple Step Stool out of Plywood (I found some left over pieces in the wood workshop :) ). This is my first furniture. So I was really curious while making.

In this Step stool project, main focus points were

  • Easy making
  • Modern look
  • Indoor - outdoor friendly
  • Proper foot space

I started this project with some ideation sketches on paper and made some quick prototypes with paper. I choosed my favourite among the prototypes which also full fill my focus points and made 3D model in Rhinocerous. Then to the workshop:) In this instructable I am going to share, how to make an easy step stool. This step stool can be completed within 3-4 hours.

I am really thankful to my project guide for the guidance and the encouragement . Also I would like to thank all the staff members and trainees for helping me in this project.

Step 1: Tools and Materials

List of Materials

  • Plywood 15 mm
  • Wood nails 1 1/2 inches
  • Sand paper

List of Tools

  • Panel Saw Machines
  • Sander
  • Ruler and penci
  • Hammer
  • Circular Saw

Attachments

Step 2: Measurements- CAID File

I did modeling of this this stool in Rhinocerous. The measurements were based on the Plywood that I got.You can change the measurements accordingly.

NOTE :

  • Always check the thickness of the plywood. It can vary.
  • All dimensions are in cm.

Attachments

Step 3: Cutting of the Components

I have marked the length on the wood before cutting.

Imp: The cutting blade thickness varies from 2-5 mm. It takes up that much material while cutting. So before each cut measure the length again. First finish all the straight cut, then go for the angle cut.

For angle cutting at the edge ( for the back support part) make sure that you have taken atleast 1 inch extra at both side so that it gives a perfect angle cut at side edges.

Step 4: Joining and Assembly

  1. Attach the supporting pieces to the side panels with nails. Imp: make sure to mark the positions before nailing it.
  2. Join the top step to the side panels. Tip: Keep the 2nd step between the panels so that it will give support while hammering. Nail it from side panel to step piece and step piece to support piece
  3. Then join the 2nd step. Make sure that the edge angle between back support panel and 2nd step is accurate and touching each other.Otherwise sand the edges a bit.
  4. Attach the back support plywood.

NOTE : You can apply glue between wood for more strength.

Step 5: Fillet Edges and Sanding the Surface

  1. Sand all the edges and surfaces with a sander and sand paper.
  2. Give a working radius to all the edges. ie. a 2 mm fillet to edges.
  3. Give a 10 mm fillet at the corner of the 2nd step for kids safety.

Step 6: Painting

Before painting I applied putty to fill the holes and scratches on the surface. Then I applied primer and kept it for 2 hours. When it dries you can sand it little with a sand paper for a smooth surface.

For painting I have used Lemon ole and dark grey colour. Used water based paint for matte finish.

Step 7: You Are Done. Let's Step on It.

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