DIY Boot Rack
Keep the rain and mud contained with this simple DIY boot rack.

By:
Sam Henderson
Related To:
Controlling the Mess
Keep your floors clean and dry with this boot rack, complete with a removable tray for easy clean up.
Gathering the Materials
You will need: (1) 2"x4"x8' board cut into (2) 41 1/4" lengths and (1) 13" length / (2) 2"x2"x6' boards cut into (4) 18 3/8" lengths and (4) 10 1/4" lengths / (2) rolled rim baking trays-half sheet / (2) wire cooling racks to fit half sheet baking pan / saw (box, table, or circular) / drill and drill bits / 2" wood screws / wood putty / sandpaper / paint or stain as desired / 8 washers
Cutting the Pieces
Use a box saw, table saw, or circular saw to cut the pieces to plan. Use sandpaper to remove any rough edges.
Building the Frame
Lay the 2"x4" pieces on a flat surface with the narrow side down. The 13" pieces should lay within the longer pieces creating a frame with the third 13" piece centered making 2-18" long openings on either side. Pre-drill holes where the screws will go to secure the long boards to each end of the shorter boards. Note: pre-drilling is essential to prevent splitting on the ends. Attach the long boards to the shorter boards with 2" wood screws, sinking slightly.
Attaching the Grate Support
Use an extra piece of 2"x2" board to determine the position of the grate support. Beginning with the 18" pieces, lay the extra piece flush with the bottom of the 2"x4". Place the 2"x2"x18" inch piece on top of it and secure it in place with 2" wood screws in pre-drilled holes. Repeat for the other 3 long sides of the openings. Next, secure the 13" pieces in the short ends of the openings in the same manner.
Filling the Holes
Use wood putty to fill all screw holes. Smooth out the surface with your fingertip. Allow the putty to dry and then sand lightly.
Covering Your Boot Rack
Paint or stain your boot rack as desired. If your boot rack will be placed outside the door, be sure to use a weather-tolerant finish.
Installing the Grate
Use 2" wood screws and a washer to secure the cooling rack grate to the wood base at each corner.
Installing the Tray
Lift the wood base up and slide the baking pan in place to catch drips and mud.
Drip Dry
Boots have a new winter home to keep the moisture contained.
Neat and Clean
Expand the project as needed for a larger family. Allow 18" more for each tray plus 1 1/2" for each new divider.