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Carpentry Pro Framer

Build a Wooden Magazine Rack

—

by

Taylor Balthazar
in

Gathering Materials and Tools

Before starting your magazine rack project, collect these essentials:

Wood:

  • A 1×3 board for the foundation

Tools:

  • Miter saw, circular saw, or hand saw
  • Pocket hole jig and drill (or countersink bit with 1 ¼" flat head screws)
  • Brad nailer or hammer and nails
  • Wood glue
  • Sandpaper
  • Paint and primer
  • Wood filler

Optional:

  • .093-inch by 11-inch by 14-inch acrylic sheet
  • Hanging hardware (nails or Command strips)
  • Level

Choose a paint color that complements your home's style. Consider adding an acrylic strip across the front for a modern touch and to keep magazines organized.

Preparing and Cutting Wood

Accuracy is crucial when preparing and cutting wood for your magazine rack.

  1. Mark cut lines on the 1×3 board using a pencil and square.
  2. Use a miter saw for angled cuts or perfect right angles. If using a circular saw, maintain steady control.
  3. Position wood with the cut line hanging over the workbench edge to prevent saw binding.

Tip: Use painter's tape along cut lines to minimize chipping, especially with plywood.

After cutting, arrange and test-fit all pieces to catch any issues early. Precise cutting forms the foundation of your project, ensuring smooth assembly later on.

A person carefully cutting a wooden board with a miter saw for a magazine rack project

Assembling the Magazine Rack

With cut pieces ready, it's time to assemble your magazine rack:

  1. Arrange pieces on a flat surface, forming an open box structure.
  2. Use pocket holes to attach the bottom to the sides for a professional look.
  3. Fit the back piece between the sides, applying wood glue and securing with screws.
  4. Attach the front piece across the width of the frame using glue and brad nails.
  5. Fill gaps with wood filler and sand smooth once dry.
  6. If using an acrylic strip, align it across the front, predrill holes, and secure carefully.

Inspect your assembled rack, ensuring each piece fits purposefully. Your project is now ready for finishing touches.

Hands assembling a wooden magazine rack frame using pocket holes and wood glue

Finishing and Mounting

Complete your magazine rack with these final steps:

  1. Sand all surfaces with fine-grit sandpaper, paying attention to corners and edges.
  2. Apply your chosen paint color in two coats, allowing drying time between each.
  3. For mounting, locate wall studs using a stud finder for stability.
  4. Use screws for heavier racks or Command strips for lighter ones.
  5. Ensure the rack is level when mounting.

Once mounted, fill your rack with magazines, cookbooks, or vinyl records. Step back and appreciate your functional and decorative DIY creation.

"So easy and I'm truly obsessed! I've been wanting to build something like this for so long and I have no idea why it's taken me so long to finally do this."
  1. Largesse J. How to Build a DIY Magazine Rack. House One. 2021.
  2. Benjamin Moore. Decorators White Paint. Benjamin Moore & Co. 2022.