I dreamed about building storage lockers for our kids for more than a year. And now that they're finally finished, I can finally say goodbye to the mess that used to live in this closet.
(Picture me doing a very enthusiastic happy dance.)
We don't have a mudroom, so this little closet had somehow become the dumping ground for food storage, shoes, backpacks, coats, socks, and pretty much anything else no one knew what to do with.
And it was working beautifully.
If by beautifully, you mean not at all.
Those of you with sharp "Mommy eyes" will notice that the shoe organizers were almost completely empty, the hooks on both sides of the closet were lonely and longing to be used, and the floor had completely disappeared under piles of stuff.
As for the storage items you can't see? They were piled all the way under the stairs. They'd better have been things I didn't need very often, because getting to them would have required a backhoe.
And the best part?
Because the shoe organizer hooks hung over the top of the door, the closet door was almost always open, giving visitors and family members a lovely, unobstructed view of the disaster.
As you can probably tell, this was not my favorite spot in the house.
I finally decided that what we needed was a set of storage lockers so each of my kids could have a designated place for backpacks, shoes, sweaters, and lunchboxes.
I found some easy building plans that looked like the perfect solution-with one tiny problem.
I am not a builder.
You're not either? Perfect. We're in this together.
Fortunately, the plans I found from Ana White were designed for people like us.
I was still too chicken to start the project on my own, but when my dad offered to help-or maybe I roped him into helping-I decided it was time to give it a try.
Guess what?
I loved it!
Not only did I love the finished storage lockers, but I actually loved building them.
Apparently there's a Christmas list filled with power tools in my future.
But Do My Kids Actually Use the Storage Lockers?
Before we get to the building instructions, let me answer the question I know you're wondering:
Do my kids actually use them?
YES!!!
That's probably my favorite thing about this project. These aren't just cute storage lockers that look nice in the kitchen. They've become our kids' landing station-a designated spot for everything they bring home from school and need again the next morning.
Even better, the lockers gave my kids a simple after-school routine.
When they get home:
- Backpacks and sweaters get hung up.
- School shoes go on the bottom shelf so they're ready for the next morning.
- Lunch boxes get emptied and then go on the bottom shelf.
- Then it's time for snacks and homework.
No backpacks all over the floor. No hunting for school shoes in the morning. No abandoned lunch boxes hiding in random corners of the house.
Everything has a place to land, and I call that a win.
And I really do love how the lockers turned out. (I think I may have mentioned that already.)
I was a little nervous about choosing such a bold color-Rapids by Valspar-but now I absolutely adore it. It brightens up the kitchen and makes what could have been a purely functional piece of furniture feel fun.
How to Build DIY Storage Lockers
Ready to try building your own?
I started with Ana White's free building plans and then made a few changes to make the storage lockers work better for our family.
Click here to go to Ana-White.com to download free building plans for the lockers
And, as usual, because I love my readers so much, I made sure to make as many mistakes as possible along the way so I could tell you what not to do.
Isn't that nice of me?
I know. I'm awesome like that. :)
A Tool That Made This Much Easier
If you're a building novice like me, one tool made this project significantly easier: a Kreg Pocket Hole Jig.
You can build the lockers without one, but if you're a beginner and don't own many woodworking tools, a pocket hole jig makes assembling the pieces much more manageable.
I bought the Jr. version specifically for this project, and it turned out to be a great investment.
Changes I Made to the Original Storage Locker Plans
I made three changes to the original plans.
1. I added individual bottom cubbies.
I knew I wanted each child to have a separate place for shoes and lunch boxes, so I divided the bottom shelf into individual cubbies.
If you'd like to do the same thing, add two 10½-inch cuts from your 1 x 12 board. You shouldn't need to buy extra wood; there should be enough left in the scraps from the project.
You only need to drill pocket holes on one side of these smaller dividers.
2. I used beadboard for the back.
Instead of using plywood for the back of the storage lockers, I chose beadboard.
I love the extra detail it adds to the finished piece!
3. I added a missing cut for the footer board.
There was also a cut missing from the original plan when I built mine. I needed a 45-inch piece from the 1 x 3 board for the footer.
Learn From My Storage Locker Building Mistake
Ready for my first mistake?
I followed the original instructions and started assembling the outside box.
Guess what happens when you try to add the third side without some kind of support?
The screws can pull out of the holes.
And then your whole project falls apart.
And, if you're especially lucky, the top board hits you on the head.
Obviously Ana White didn't know me personally, or the plans would have included this important instruction:
"Heidi-you're going to get hit over the head with a board, so you'd better sit down and do some planning before you start building!"
Fortunately, my dad is much better at planning than I am.
Together, we figured out an assembly order that worked much better.
It not only helped me avoid another giant goose egg on my head, but it also saved me from repeatedly discovering the reverse function on my power drill.
Honestly, I only had to take things apart once...
Or maybe twice.
The Assembly Order That Worked for Me
After drilling your pocket holes, here's the order I recommend for assembling the storage lockers:
- Screw together the top and one side to form an L.
- Screw together the shelf above the bottom cubbies and the opposite side to form another L.
- Connect the two L-shaped sections. You'll definitely want an assistant for this step!
- Add the top shelf.
- Add the large locker dividers.
- Attach the small bottom cubby dividers to the shelf above them.
- Attach the bottom shelf to the sides.
- Flip the project over, mark guide lines on the underside of the bottom shelf, and screw through the bottom shelf into the cubby dividers.
Important pocket-hole tip: Offset the pocket holes in the large and small dividers. Otherwise, you may end up driving screws directly into each other. I positioned the holes in the large dividers closer to the outside edges and the holes in the smaller dividers closer to the center.
You can use pocket holes underneath the bottom shelf, but you'll need a tiny angled screwdriver because there isn't much room to work.
From there, you can continue following the original building plans.
Finishing the Storage Lockers
Once the main structure is assembled, you're almost there!
Add the back, and then it's time to:
- Fill the holes
- Sand
- Prime
- Paint
- Add the hooks and finishing touches
And then stand back and admire the fact that you built that!
Seriously. If woodworking intimidates you, don't automatically assume this project is beyond your skill level. I was nervous to try it, too, and I ended up having so much fun building it.
How Much Do DIY Storage Lockers Cost?
When I originally built these storage lockers in 2014, I spent less than $150 total, including the Kreg Jig Jr. I purchased for the project.
Your cost will obviously vary depending on current lumber prices, the type of wood you choose, the paint you use, and which tools you already own.
But for me, the biggest payoff wasn't just the finished piece.
It was finally having a designated place for all of the backpacks, shoes, coats and lunch boxes that used to take over our closet.
No mudroom required.
And, best of all, my kids actually use it.
I'd call that a DIY success!
Thanks for stopping by today. Check out more diy projects by clicking on the images below.
I'm glad you stopped by today. I hope you'll comment and/or share this post in some way!
Joyce
Heidi, this is amazing! Besides the utility, the beauty of the unit and the vivid color you chose are wonderful. But I am most impressed that you just took up that Pocket Hole Jig and went to work by yourself! Every home with school kids should have one of these - instead of the "backhoe" :) we usually resort to! Great job!
Heidi Fowler
I wouldn't have tried it without help. Having my dad with me (even though he was a beginner, too) was just the moral support I needed to get it done. I think he was as nervous as I was, but we both had so much fun. It was amazing how easy it was. I never imagined I could build something like that. Now I smile every time I walk by it! Thanks for your kind words! Take care.
jaimie
how much did this project cost?
Heidi Fowler
Including the $40 Kreg Jig, Jr. that I bought for the project, I spent about $150. The total cost will depend on the brand of paint and the type of wood you choose. Ana-White.com suggests that this is a $100-$150 project.
jaimie
THANK YOU!! my FIL is starting on it soon so I am looking forward to having it in my front hall by the end of this month! yay no more shoes, backpacks, books and random papers to walk on/step around right in my entry way! I've been dreaming about this for two years! thanks so much for the post and the links.
jaimie
and I forgot to mention that we added a fourth cubby since I have four kids. the cubbies will simply be more narrow.
Kristina & Millie
I need this. I think I need two. Think you could come over and help me build them? Totally awesome!
Heidi Fowler
Thanks, Kristina & Millie. I agree. I think everyone needs at least one of these! Wish I could help build it, but seriously--Ana White's plans are great for beginners. Give it a try!
Laura
What a great idea! I love being organised and hallways can easily become messy (especially with a lot of people in the house) so this really appeals to me! Thanks for sharing.
Heidi
Thanks Laura. It really was a fun project. Off to visit your site.
Brenna
I love this! It looks awesome! I'm adding this to my hubby build list, and then hopefully it will be done by the time the little one goes to school.
Heidi Fowler
I hope he'll do it, Brenna! You'll love it! Thanks for taking the time to comment.
Brenna
Thanks for sharing this will the Less Laundry, More Linking party, Heidi!
Crystelle
Oh my, Heidi! You are so my inspiration... That looks so hard, but it also looks so adorable AND functional! Great work... :)
hugs x Crystelle
Crystelle Boutique
Heidi
Thanks, Crystelle. I was pretty scared to try it, but with an "assistant" for moral support, it really went together fast. The Kreg Jig is so cool! Love your birthday project!
Diana Rambles
I love it. It's beautiful!!
Heidi
Thanks, Diana! I'm off to check out your S'more Pretzel Bark!
Meg @ The Patchwork Paisley
Swinging by from the Chic and Crafty party, I love these lockers!! My little ones don't have much school gear yet, but maybe I can use it to organize mind and the hubby's stuff- we have a severe storage shortage on out first floor.
Heidi Fowler
I replaced my dishes cabinet with these lockers. I'd much rather get rid of the dishes and have a clean house instead! Who needs fancy dishes these days, anyway! I think these would be great to organize adults, too. Go for it! Thanks for stopping by, Meg!
Kristina
Oh girl. I love this so much. If only My split level home had a spot where something like this could actually exist!!
Heidi@OneCreativeMommy
I had a hard time finding a spot, too, Kristina. This is actually sitting in my kitchen! It's worth it to me to have the storage. I wish it were in a mudroom, but I don't have one. Lemons to lemonade, right? :)
Nicky @ Pink Recipe Box
What a cute and creative way to help everyone stay organised at home! I'd be thrilled if you'd come on over to Pink Recipe Box and link up at Creative Wednesdays: http://pinkrecipebox.com/creative-wednesdays-with-pink-recipe-box-7/
Heidi Fowler
I stopped in at your party and linked up, Nicky. Thanks for the invite.
Monica
I love the way it turned out! When my boys get older I hope to do something similar. :-)
Pinned! If you have time, I'd love it if you would link this to Family Fun Friday - we have over 100 bloggers and 600 readers every week. :-) Thanks so much! Monica
http://happyandblessedhome.com/category/family-fun/
Heidi Fowler
Thanks, Monica! I'm all linked up.
Deb @ Kneaded Creations
Heidi! THis is FABULOUS! I am going to have the hubster help me to make one for our mud room! Your instructions are so understandable! I love it! Thanks so much for posting. You are one creative mommy! Deb@ Kneaded Creations
Heidi Fowler
Thanks so much, Deb. I hope you'll come back and share a link to your finished product!
Rachel @ I Love My Disorganized Life
Heidi I love this! I feel the same about woodworking, not too confident about it! Great job, girl!
Heidi Fowler
Thanks, Rachel. I'm off to enter your giveaway!
Gillian @ The Haas Machine
Super practical idea! I love everything that has to do with staying organized. Thanks for sharing!
Heidi Fowler
Thanks, Gillian! I'm off to enter your giveaway!
Claire
This is terrific, thanks! I can't find a cost estimate. Can you tell us how much you spent? Thanks again.
Heidi Fowler
I spent about $150. (That includes the tool I bought.) On Ana-white.com (where I got the instructions) the cost estimate is $100-$150. Since I didn't have all the tools, I spent $40 on the Kreg Jig Jr.
Madonna/aka/Ms. Lemon
I'm a foodie that came over from Sweet Sharing Monday, but i just wanted to say what a great idea and you and your father did an excellent job.
Heidi Fowler
Thanks, Madonna! It really was a fun project.
Christie - Food Done Light
This is awesome. I love that it looks so nice but is utilitarian also. Wish we had space for it. It would solve all my clutter issues by the dor.
Heidi Fowler
Christie, you should check out ana-white.com. She has lots of other storage plans to build. Maybe you'll find something that will work for your space. Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to comment! I'm off to check out your cookies.
Julie Moore
Totally awesome project and perfect for back-to-school! :) My kids would think those were amazing for sure! Thank you for linking it up to my Back-To-School link-up!
Jenifer @ Not Quite Mom of the Year
What a great project! I so wish I had room for a set of these! My hall closet looks like your before picture...only worse! Lol! Maybe I could get my husband to make them for my little girls' bedroom to hold towels and bathrobes!
Heidi Fowler
That's a great idea, Jenifer! My hall closet used to look a lot worse. You should see what it used to look like in the winter! I bet your girls could find lots of ways to use this in their room! I'm off to check out your site. Thanks for stopping in and commenting.
Krista @ the happy housie
This is truly an amazing project- and a great little tutorial too!! I love the blue colour you chose as well. I am sharing on my facebook page and would be thrilled if you have the chance to share this at our new mega-party Work it Wednesday - it goes live tomorrow morning at 7am PST. Each link will be shown on 4 blogs! The Happy Housie, The Blissful Bee, The Turquoise Home, and My Place for Taste:) Work it Wednesday. Hope to see ya there!
- Krista @ the happy housie
Heidi Fowler
You're so sweet, Krista! Thank you! I would love to link up. I'm on my way over now.
Krista @ the happy housie
Yay!! So thrilled you came to share this with us at Work it Wednesday this week - hope to see you back:)
Kathleen
Great job!!!! The color is fabulous. Pinned. New follower on all your social networks.
Heidi@OneCreativeMommy
Thanks, Kathleen! I'm following you back on Twitter.
Mandy Hank
This is amazing! It looks like you could purchase it at a store, you did a great job with the details! Totally pinning! I found you through Work it Wednesday and wanted to say hello!
Evelyn @ My Turn for us
Love these and I don't have kids but could certainly use them:)))
Just pinned and will be sharing on Facebook as one of this week's features at Freedom Fridays:)))
Hugs
Thanks for sharing!!
Heidi Fowler
Thanks so much Eveyln!
Danielle @ Poor and Gluten Free
Well you already know I love this post, and now I've pinned it! Thanks for sharing, Heidi :)
Heidi Fowler
Thanks, Danielle! I always love linking up at your site.
Kathryn Griffin @TheDedicatedHouse
Heidi, this is flippin' fantastic! Thank you for sharing. You will be one of the features today at the Make it Pretty Monday party at The Dedicated House. Pop on in and grab a feature button. Hope to see your prettiness again at the bash! Toodles, Kathryn @TheDedicatedHouse
Heidi Fowler
You're so sweet, Kathryn! Thanks so much for featuring my project. I've been linking up to your site for a long time, and I'm really excited that you chose my project!
Annie
Wow, great locker! Fantastic job!
Heidi Fowler
Thanks, Annie! I'm off to check out your site.
Katherines Corner
you rocked it! It's perfect!!! xo
Heidi
Thanks, Katie!
Mary Cole
Hello! I am planning to make this project this weekend, thanks for linking yours to the plan! It is so helpful!! I did have a quick question, did you have a nailer? I am wondering if I can get by without it..
P.S. Its gorgeous and awesome!
Heidi
Thanks, Mary. You definitely don't need a nail gun. Good luck with your project. I'd love to see it when it's finished.
Keith
What type of wood did you use? Looks like pine, but did you glue boards together to make them that deep or did you find them in the store that way?
Heidi Fowler
Hi, Keith. I used white wood, but pine would be even better (and more expensive). In the post, there is a link to the website where I got the printable plans. I added a download link icon so that you can see it better. If you visit that site, Ana gives you all of the dimensions of the boards to buy and the cuts you need to make. Good like!
Denyse @ Glitter, Glue & Paint
Heidi! What a great way to keep the kids organized. Thank you for sharing at Throwback Thursday!
xoxo
Denyse
Heidi Fowler
Thanks, Denyse!
Sabrina @ PLN
Thanks so much for sharing your project on our #PARABlogCrew link party. Love what you did! The colour looks amazing:)
Heidi Fowler
Thanks. The color makes me happy!
Karen W
That looks like a wonderful way to organize! I could have used this years ago, though we don't have room for something like that right now.
Thanks for stopping by and sharing with Throwback Thursday Blog-Style. I can't wait to see what you share this week.
Heidi
Thanks, Karen. We don't have a lot of room, either, but this fit perfectly into a little spot in the kitchen.
Natashalh
I was actually thinking of converting a bookcase into a sort of entryway piece with space for shoes, coats, etc. We don't have kids, but this looks like it would really meet our needs! Plus it would give my husband an excuse to get the pocket hole jig he's been wanting for months.
Heidi Fowler
The pocket hole jig is so cool! If getting a new tool will get you a new entryway piece, it's worth it!
Heidi
Heidi, I am getting to build this locker system this weekend. I have all my wood and Jig and paint and am sooo excited. I didn't see a link to painting tips. Do you have a link or ideas. I'm wondering if I should paint some pieces before putting together.
Valeria B.
This is really convenient for kids! I love it! Thanks for sharing! Greets, Storage Marks Gate Ltd.
AnneMarie
You give great instructions! Plus, I love the humorous warnings~ that would totally happen to me ;)
jon
Hello,
this was helpful, thank you. do you have any information on how much weight the lower shelf will support? i know my kids and they will be crawling on them.
Heidi
Sorry, Jon. My kids are too old for climbing, so mine bottom shelf has only held shoes and books. The middle shelf has held quite heavy backpacks, though. The unit seems quite strong, but you might have better luck with weight information by asking on Ana White's website (the place I link to get plans). Good luck with your shelves!
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that looks great! gotta try to make it!
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they’d better be things I don’t need often, because there is absolutely no way to get to them without a backhoe. And the best part? Because the hooks on the shoe bag go over the top of the door, the door is almost always open–giving all visitors and family members of lovely view of the disaster.
surveillancekart
Teaching your kids organization skills early on will help them take better care of their belongings, at home, and in school. it will Help kids get organized!
Ally
My husband just used your plans to build a locker for us. I will share a picture as soon as it's finished. But I was wondering what storage ins did you use on the bottom shelf. I'm having a tough time finding ones that I like and that are affordable.
Heidi
Congrats, Ally! I hope you love your new lockers. I know just what you mean about finding inexpensive bins. I did not want to break the bank either. It's been several years, but I'm pretty sure mine came from Walmart. I'm sure they were very inexpensive, because I hate spending money! I hope they still have some the right size that will work for you. Good luck!
LILA
Great ideas, i love your article. It gives me more ideas on home to organize my room with my shoes and stuff for my children.
Keep up the good work
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AWesome website, Love the way this website has been done. Love it. Great work.
Kelly
We at Totally Kids fun furniture & toys actually have damaged furniture from time to time and this is a great inspirationk. Glad that I found your site!
Kelly
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Great ideas, I love your article. It gives me more ideas on home to organize my room with my shoes and stuff for my children.
Laura Miller
Hi! I really like the color of your walls. Could you tell me what color it is? Thanks!Laura
Heidi
Hi, Laura. Unfortunately, the walls were that color when we moved in, and we don’t live there anymore. I wish I could help. There wasn’t any touch up paint or anything, so we never saw the color on a paint can or anything. Sorry.
We just painted our new home Agreeable Gray, and I absolutely love it. It sounds like you are looking for more of a cream color, though. Wish I could help.
On a side note, the color in my pics looks a little off (it was hard to get good lighting in that house). Even if I did have the color, you may have found that it was different than you expected. It was a nice color, though, so maybe not.
I hope you find just the right color for your home. Choosing colors is so hard!
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It looks awesome.