Introduction: INTERLOCKING STEP STOOL

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About: Retired Shop Teacher, Tool Collector, I like Cars, Guitars, Bikes and Electronics. I'd rather Recycle than buy Materials. Definitely Old-School Methods.

This is a sturdy step stool that comes apart for easy storage. My grandfather built scores of these for everyone in the family, however, he built them from dimensional wood which often split along the grain causing occasional tumbles. To solve this problem, use plywood which is dimensionally stable and impossible to break in normal use.


Supplies

Tools/ Materials


Plywood at least 5/8” thick

Sander, various grits of sandpaper

Panel saw

Hand- held jig saw with scrolling blade

Tape measure, square, pencil

(Optional- construction adhesive, brad nails, paint or stain)

Step 1: LAYOUT, CUT, SAND

Layout the dimensions as shown in the plan photo.

Cut pieces to size using the panel saw.

Cut notches using the jig saw.

Sand all edges till smooth.

NOTE: Cut the notches on the inside of your layout lines to ensure they are tight. If too tight, lightly sand them to fit. If loose, your stool will wobble and be unsafe. * Depending on your plywood thickness, you may have to adjust the slot length of the legs

Step 2: ASSEMBLY

Put it together as shown in the photos. Slip the strut into the seat notches. Next mate the leg notches into the ones on the strut. If desired, you can use adhesive and brad nails to hold it together although this is not needed if your notches are tight. Paint or stain if desired.