Introduction: Folding Clothes Drying Rack
In this Instructable I'll show you how I made a Folding Clothes Drying Rack to replace our rickety collapsible one. I have free plans available for this build if you're interested. Hope you enjoy the project!
Be sure to watch the video above, and if you like it please subscribe to my YouTube channel!
You can get the FREE plans and a more detailed blog post at:
Step 1: Gather Materials and Tools
- (1) 6' 1x4 select pine boards
- (2) 6' 1x3 select pine boards
- (2) 8' 1x2 select pine boards
- (1) 4' x 2' 1/4" Plywood
- 1-1/4" Pocket Hole Screws
- Rare earth magnet
- Door Catch (for plate)
- 4' #16 Jack Chain
- (4) #210 screw eyes
- 2-1/2" Hinge
Step 2: Build the Ladder Rack
I started off by building the "ladder" rack. I used 1x2's for the frame of the rack.
I drilled holes in the sides for 1/2" dowels.
I cut the dowels a little wider than the opening then glued them in place and secured the rack together with pocket hole screws.
Step 3: Build the Wall Frame
I built a wall frame from 1x3s. First I cut a small rabbet joint on the inside edge of the top, bottom and side. This will hold the back later.
I secured the top and bottom to the sides with pocket screws. I also added mounting cleats on the top and bottom.
I finished off the frame by adding a catch block for the magnet that will hold the ladder rack in place.
Step 4: Trim Out the Frame
To fancy up the frame I added a 1x4 on the top and bottom.
Then I installed cove molding around the transition from the frame to the 1x4. This adds a ton of character and classes up the project.
After painting all the parts I nailed on a 1/4" plywood back.
Step 5: Install the Hardware
I installed a magnet to the block I installed earlier. This pairs with a metal catch plate I installed on the top of the ladder rack.
I used small screw eye hooks on the ladder rack and the frame. A piece of jack chain is used to connect the two at final assembly.
I installed 2-1/2" hinges on the bottom on the ladder rack then went to install.
Step 6: Final Install
I installed the drying rack into the wall studs through the mounting cleats.
Then I installed the ladder rack with the hinges I put on earlier.
Finally I finished up by making the chain connection between the rack and the frame.
Hope you enjoyed the project! I have free plans available for this build if you're interested.
Be sure to watch the video above, and if you like it please subscribe to my YouTube channel!
You can get the FREE plans and a more detailed blog post at:
