How to make a bathrack

Relaxing in a bath is a simple pleasure made even more enjoyable when everything you need is within easy reach.

Materials you will need:

three lengths of 1800 x 44 x 22mm meranti cut to:

two 1000mm
two 256mm
two 250 mm
two 200 mm
two 206mm (joining pieces)

three 6m x 6mm aluminium rods cut to ±70 x 250mm lengths
±twelve 50mm chipboard screws
waterproof wood glue
varnish
drill, combination countersink drill bit
6mm drill bit
hacksaw
pencil
measuring tape
combination square or tri-square
paintbrush

Step 1

Measure 22mm from the end and mark a line across the width of one of the 1000mm pieces. Mark another 22mm-wide band 80mm from the other end (use the joining pieces here). Then use an offcut piece to mark 22mm intervals along the remaining length. Do the same with a 256, 250 and 200mm length. Then draw a line 15mm from the edge along the lengths.

Step 2

Clamp each pair in turn (with the marked pieces on top) to the work surface, making sure that the ends and edges are flush. Now use the 6mm drill bit to drill holes through both pieces at these marks. Drill vertically through both planks so that the holes will coincide perfectly; a drill press will be invaluable for this step. Remember To place an offcut piece under the planks so that the wood does not splinter out at the bottom of the holes.

Step 3

Use a combination countersink drill bit (or 2.5mm drill followed by a regular countersink drill bit) to drill 2 countersunk pilot holes midway between the sets of lines drawn in step 1. Do this at the other end (the 22mm-wide band 80mm from the other end) and on the second plank.

Step 4

Apply waterproof wood glue to the joins before screwing the back of the framework together using the 50mm chipboard screws. Use a tri-square or corner clamp to ensure that the corners are perpendicular.

Step 5

Then glue the remaining joints with waterproof wood glue before screwing them together using the 50mm chipboard screws, as shown. Remember to drill pilot holes into the ‘top’ edge of the 1000mm pieces and the 250mm sections when joining the rest of the frame.

Step 6

Use a hacksaw to cut the 6mm aluminium rod into 250mm sections – it’s best to clamp it firmly in place in a vice when cutting.

Step 7

Now place the aluminium lengths into the holes and use a hammer to tap them home. You can use a belt sander to sand any protruding pieces flush with the surface.