Turn a Galvanized Tub Into Playful Mobile Toy Storage
Give an old square galvanized tub new life as a handy place to stash kids' toys. This easy project creates fun and colorful storage for building blocks or other toys and includes a built-in play surface on top.
Materials Needed
galvanized tub
saw
(1) 1/2" plywood cut to 16-3/4" x 16-7/8"
(1) 1/2" plywood cut to 20-1/8" x 21"
(2) 1"x2"x16-7/8" trim
(2) 1"x2"x18-1/8" trim
(2) 1"x2"x21" trim
(2) 1"x2"x21-5/8" trim
(2) 2’ clamps
1" wood screws
screwdriver
wood putty
sand paper
spray paint
2 handles with screws
four building block base plates
heavy duty spray adhesive
4 large casters
(16) 3/4" wood screws
Note: these measurements fit a standard square galvanized tub. Be sure to check the dimensions of your tub and adjust if necessary.
Cut Boards
Make all of the cuts. Sand the ends as necessary.
Construct Top Tray
To make the top tray, place the 21" trim pieces flush against the 21" sides of the plywood. Center the plywood in the middle of the trim pieces with equal amounts of trim on the top and bottom of the plywood. Secure the trim in place with clamps. Use 1" wood screws to attach the trim to the plywood by screwing through the trim and into the side of the plywood. Use at least 4 screws on each side, sinking them just a bit. Add the 21-5/8" trim to the opposite sides in the same way, but be sure to insert a screw at both ends of the trim, screwing it into the ends of the previously attached trim. Fill screw holes with wood putty and allow to dry.
Construct Bottom Tray
Repeat the process for the bottom tray beginning with the 16-7/8" trim and finishing with the 18-1/4" trim. When the putty has dried, sand the trays. Pay special attention to the corners, removing any sharp edges for safety.
Paint
Spray paint both trays and allow to dry completely. Sand lightly with fine grit paper or steel wool. Add additional coats as necessary.
Add Casters
Add casters to the bottom by placing the mounting plates flush in the corners. Secure with 3/4" screws.
Add Handles
Add handles to the sides of the top tray centered vertically and horizontally on opposite sides of the tray.
Get Top Tray Ready for Play
Add building square base plates by spraying the back side of the plates and top tray surface with heavy-duty spray adhesive. Press the two surfaces together. Place books on top of the building square base plates for weight until the adhesive sets.
Assemble and Enjoy
Assemble the storage unit by placing the tub on the bottom tray with casters. Then fill the tub with building blocks and add the top tray. Note: the top tray can be flipped and the smooth side used for coloring, crafts or homework.
