I'm a tech professional (ex-Amazon) with experience including software engineering, and management. Currently living in NYC. Modern Plywood Blanket Chest
Build a modern plywood DIY blanket chest
In this project I build a DIY blanket chest with plywood and 3 simple tools: a circular saw, drill, and router. I leaned into the exposed plywood aesthetique and highlighted the edge grain of Europly maple plywood. What made this project possible with my space is Home Depot’s free custom cut service. I had them rip down the plywood into 17” width pieces which become the sides of the main box.
Tools
The tools, hardware and jigs needed to complete this project. This is not an exhaustive list, but I linked the tools I felt were most critical to the project. Things like clamps, sandpaper, drill bits etc, aren’t included.
I linked the items I used for this project, but brand really doesn’t matter all that much. For some of the items below (especially consumables such as glue, screws, and finishes), you’ll probably find them for cheaper at your local home center.
If you don’t already have one, a circular saw crosscut jig is absolutely essential for this project. It’s also a good investment if you do a lot of woodworking without a table saw.
Power tools
Jigs
Circular saw crosscut jig (you can also make your own)
3/8” Dowel drilling jig
Pocket-hole jig
Hardware
Pocket-hole screw set
3/8” wooden dowels
Finishes and glues
Clear 2-part epoxy
Wood glue
Wipe-On Poly (Satin)
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
SketchUp Model
Dimensions
The exact dimensions of this blanket chest are not important; howerver for my build, 2” wide legs were the way to go. I mocked up 3” wide legs and they felt too visually heavy for the look I was going for. The box portion is 17” tall lifted off the ground 1” by the legs.