If you want to learn how to build a dog crate, we recommend you to pay attention to the instructions described in the article. Work with attention and make sure you select the right dog crate plans for your needs. There are many designs and plans to choose from, but the most important aspect is to check if your favorite pet fits inside the crate. Therefore, a proper planning would save you from a lot of trouble.
Invest in high quality and weather-resistant materials, such as pine, cedar or redwood. It is also essential to check if the slats are in a good condition (perfectly straight, without chips or knots) before starting the assembly process. Ask a friend to assist you when building the wooden crate, as you need someone to hold the components together, while inserting the screws and adding the glue.
Dog Crate Plans
Building a dog crate
Materials
- 1 – 4 pieces of 1×3 lumber – 26”, 4 pieces – 29 1/2″, 12 pieces of 1×2 lumber – 29 1/2″ SIDES
- 2 – 4 pieces of 1×3 lumber – 19”, 4 pieces – 26″, 6 pieces – 19″ FACES
- 3 – 2 pieces of 3/4″ plywood – 24″x36″ TOP AND BOTTOM
- 4 – 2 pieces of 1×2 lumber – 15 1/2″, 2 pieces – 20 1/2″, 4 pieces – 17 1/2″ DOOR
Tools
- Hammer, Tape measure, Carpentry square
- Miter saw, Drill machinery, Screwdriver, Sander, Router
- Safety Gloves, Safety Glasses, Respiratory Mask
Time
- One day
Building a dog crate
Building the side panels
The first step of the project is to build the sides of the dog crate. As you can easily notice in the image, we recommend you to make the frame out of 1×3 lumber, while the rest of the components should be made out of 1×2 lumber. Cut the slats at the right size and lock them together by drilling pocket holes and 1 1/4″ screws.
Building the back of the dog crate
The next step is to build the back of the dog crate. As you can easily notice in the plans, we recommend you to adjust the size of the components and to assemble the panel, as in the image. Drill pocket holes at both ends of the horizontal components and attach them to the frame with 1 1/4″ screws. Add waterproof glue to the joints, in order to enhance the rigidity of the structure.
Building the front face
Building the front frame of the dog crate is a straight-forward project, but you need to make sure the corners are right-angled. Lock all the four panels together tightly, making sure the edges are aligned perfectly and there are no gaps between the panels.
Attaching the top and bottom
Attaching the 3/4″ plywood panels to the top and bottom of the structure is the next step of the woodworking project. In order to get a professional result, we recommend you to align the panels at both ends and to insert screws into the wooden panels. Add waterproof glue to enhance the rigidity of the joints.
Building the door
One of the last steps of the woodworking project is to build the front door of the dog crate and to fit it into the opening, by using several metal hinges. Use 1×2 components to assemble the door of the dog crate in a professional manner. Fit a nice latch to lock the door whenever it is necessary.
Dog crate plans
Last but not least, you should take care of the finishing touches. Therefore, we recommend you to check if the components are locked into place properly and structure is rigid enough to support the pet. Make sure there are no protruding screws or sharp edges. Since you are here, you should as well check plans for a large dog house with porch.
PRO TIP: Fill the holes with a good wood filler and smooth the surface with medium-grit sandpaper. Apply several coats of paint or stain over the components, in order to protect them from decay. Check out the rest of the project to learn more about building garden projects.
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