Log in Sign up
PROFILE MENU

Society of Makers

Don't have an account? Sign up.

Society of Makers

Already have an account? Log in.

Select Guild Forgot Logo Society of Makers

Making A Wooden Magazine Rack

26 views  •  31 Jan 2023
Joe Martin
4 subscribers

How To Make A Wooden Magazine Rack Tutorial

This is a really useful wooden magazine rack, perfect for placing next to your chair or sofa, or even bed. Especially if you are a magazine reader like my wife. She loves reading a good beauty and home magazine. This is a good project to make as it doesn't require lots of expensive tools.

This particular wooden magazine rack has an interlocking design that allows it to be opened out to hold magazines or to be folded flat for storage.

Materials & Equipment

  • 4.2m of 75mm X 12mm Planed Softwood (For Slats)
  • 2.7m of 50mm X 25mm planed Softwood (For Legs)
  • 6mm MDF (For Template)
  • 16 25mm Brass Wood Screws
  • 2 50mm Brass Wood Screws
  • Panel Pin
  • 2 65mm Coach Bolts, Nuts and Washers
  • Thin Cord
  • Pencil
  • Drill
  • Medium Grade Sandpaper
  • Clear Varnish or Sealer
Making A Wooden Magazine Rack
Making A Wooden Magazine Rack

How To Start To Make A Wooden Magazine Rack

Above are the diagrams with the measurements and it shows how the wooden magazine rack fits together. Please refer to these diagrams as you go, as  you will need to ensure that the measurements are correct for it to fit together properly. As you can see, the magazine rack consists of two separate assemblies that make the two sides of the rack. One of them slides inside the other one and are attached together with two bolts. This creates the folding mechanism.

This wooden magazine rack can be made to any size that you wish, however, if you use these diagrams, you will not need to calculate all of the angles. Draw it on to a sheet of MDF or Plywood to make a template.
Making A Wooden Magazine Rack

Making Legs For A Wooden Magazine Rack

Step 1

Start by cutting the legs and the slats to the correct length following the dimensions on the diagrams at the top. The slats for the inner frame should measure 55mm, which is shorter than the slats for the outer frame. This will allow them to easily slide within the latter.

Then if you wish to, cut a rounded edge profile at the top of each of the legs. It is good to use the first on you cut as a template for the other legs, so that they will all be the same.

Step 2

Next, lay each pair of the wooden legs over the template that you have drawn on the MDF or plywood, and mark on the position of the slats and the pivot point using a pencil. It is a good idea to support the leg on top by wedging a small offcut of wood under it to keep it level. Then drill a small hole through the pivot point of each of the legs.
Making A Wooden Magazine Rack

Assembling The Frame For A Wooden Magazine Rack

Step 3

Now it is time to assemble the inner frame of the magazine rack. So insert one screw at each end of the top slat, then use a try square to ensure that the assembly is correct before you carry on. At this point, it is essential to make sure that the frames are completely square. And remember to ensure that the ends of the slats do not hang over the sides of the frame.

Step 4

Next, add the third slat, and then turn the frame over to attach the bottom slat into place. It will make the final assembly a lot easier if you leave out the second slat for now, as this can be added once the wooden magazine rack is bolted together.
Making A Wooden Magazine Rack

Assembling The Outer Frame For A Wooden Magazine Rack

Step 5

Now it is time to start working on the outer frame. Use the inner frame that you have just made as a jig for the outer frame. Carefully position the components, ensuring that the pivot holes are in line with each other. Then insert a small panel pin to keep the legs aligned in the right position while you are working. Refer to how the angled ends of the legs face in opposite directions.

Step 6

Next, use two offcuts of 12mm wood at each side to support the outer legs, to keep them at the same level. Then screw the top and third slats into place, making sure that they are square beforehand. Make sure that all four legs are parallel to allow the wooden magazine rack to open and fold freely.
Making A Wooden Magazine Rack

Putting A Wooden Magazine Rack Together

Step 7

To fit the bottom slat, turn the assembly over. At this point in the process, the two frames should enclose each other, but should have the ability to slide apart if needed. This is the best time to clean up any rough bits using medium grade sandpaper. Then, if you choose to, apply a coat of clear varnish or sealer.

Step 8

Now, drill holes through the legs for the coach bolts, making sure that you use the pilot holes do guide the drill bit to avoid splitting the wood. Then insert a coach bolt into each side, and inserting a large washer between the moving parts. This will reduce any friction.

Then fit the nuts to the inside, but do not make them too tight as this can distort the framework. The bottom slat on the outer framework of the wooden magazine rack will act as a stop to hold the rack open.
Making A Wooden Magazine Rack

A Handmade Wooden Magazine Rack

Step 9

Next, insert the bottom piece that will become the floor piece of the magazine rack. Make sure that you cut it to fit between the legs of the inner framework, and attach it into place using two long brass screws. The rack should pivot easily, allowing it to open and fold closed.

Then put in the remaining two second slats. You can also add a couple of lengths of thin cord between the bottom slats if you wish to secure the magazine rack in the open position.
Making A Wooden Magazine Rack
0 Comments
CANCEL
CLEAR
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/250936201S61000-standard.jpg thumbnail
How To Make A Wall Hung Bookshelf
Joe Martin
14 views • 12 Feb 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/250935531S01000-standard.jpg thumbnail
Make A Simple Wooden Mirror Frame
Joe Martin
14 views • 23 Jan 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/250935211S41000-standard.jpg thumbnail
Making A Simple Wine Rack
Joe Martin
18 views • 11 Jan 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/250935401S61000-standard.jpg thumbnail
How To Make A Basic Picture Frame
Joe Martin
12 views • 13 Jan 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260313421S21000-standard.jpg thumbnail
Fun Gift for Grandmother
Kids Craft Ideas
34 views • 4 Apr 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260356551S0-severe-noise.jpg thumbnail
How To Make Witch Hazel and Lavender Skin Freshener
Natural Skin Care
33 views • 26 Aug 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260122581S314137280480_n.jpg thumbnail
Sweet Artistry Unleashed: Exploring the World of Wilton Cake Deco...
Jane Wells
35 views • 24 Sep 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/250830041S070236371000.jpg thumbnail
A Fun Decorative Sunburst Bowl
Alison Jones
28 views • 11 Dec 2022
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260308191S21000-standard.jpg thumbnail
Paper Chains, More and More Paper Chains
Kids Craft Ideas
18 views • 11 Feb 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260129351S21000-standard.jpg thumbnail
How to Make Aloe Vera and Lavender Body Gel at Home
Natural Skin Care
25 views • 4 Mar 2024
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/250839471S61000-standard.jpg thumbnail
A Papier Mache Greek Vase Design
Alison Jones
22 views • 8 Mar 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/250946361S80010000-THUMB.jpg thumbnail
Fancy Concertina Star Christmas Garlands
Sandy Lane
27 views • 12 Feb 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260313211S71000-standard.jpg thumbnail
Fun Fathers Day Gift
Kids Craft Ideas
21 views • 3 Mar 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260122451S189292814133_n.jpg thumbnail
Mod Podge Review: The Ultimate Crafting Companion Unveiled
Jane Wells
52 views • 20 Sep 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260126311S21000-standard.jpg thumbnail
Homemade Moisturising Vitamin Mask
Natural Skin Care
27 views • 19 Sep 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/261249431S11000-standard.jpg thumbnail
Creating a Heat Embossed Christmas Card Is Fun
Kids Christmas Projects
24 views • 19 Aug 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260336591S21000-standard.jpg thumbnail
Make Driftwood Characters for Fun
Kids Craft Club
16 views • 4 Jul 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/250832441S00-Feature-(2).jpg thumbnail
Make A Basic Papier Mache Bowl
Alison Jones
22 views • 19 Dec 2022
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260103311S71003-standard.jpg thumbnail
Instructions for Creating a Christmas Felt Photo Album
Ms Felt
38 views • 7 Dec 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/261252231S0-severe-noise.jpg thumbnail
Paper Diamond Decorations Are Fun for Any Occasion
Kids Christmas Projects
32 views • 16 Sep 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260102191S81002-standard.jpg thumbnail
Unlock the Secret to Crafting a Felt Edelweiss Flower Ball
Ms Felt
26 views • 29 Nov 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/250951001S71000-standard.jpg thumbnail
Mirror Fold Prints Are Super Fun
Kids Craft Ideas
23 views • 27 Jan 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/250931021S11000-standard.jpg thumbnail
A Small Crown Papier Mache Box
Lottie Smith
25 views • 13 Feb 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260324201S21000-standard.jpg thumbnail
Learn to Make Juggling Bean Bags
Things Kids Can Make
42 views • 28 Apr 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260304301S21000-standard.jpg thumbnail
Painted Stones Are Fun to Make
Kids Craft Ideas
17 views • 29 Jan 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260125081S81000-standard.jpg thumbnail
How to Make Rosehip Treatment Balm
Natural Skin Care
25 views • 6 Sep 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/250834341S010932331000.jpg thumbnail
Make a Vintage Decorative Decoupage Tea Tray
Alison Jones
25 views • 1 Jan 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260351161S61000-standard.jpg thumbnail
Fun Easy Bead Necklace Tutorial for Kids
Kids Craft Club
45 views • 5 Dec 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/250835061S11000-standard.jpg thumbnail
How To Make A Simple Decorative Bowl
Alison Jones
24 views • 6 Jan 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/250843301S110521391000.jpg thumbnail
Paper Snowflake Christmas Decorations
Elizabeth Richards
22 views • 12 Dec 2022
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/250858591S21000-standard.jpg thumbnail
Make Pretty Little Gift Boxes
Katie Isaacs
19 views • 7 Jan 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260100341S31001-standard.jpg thumbnail
Transform Felt into a Stunning Felt Heart Candle Holder That Will...
Ms Felt
24 views • 16 Sep 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/250857461S1000-standard2.jpg thumbnail
Sunburst Hand Printed Wallpaper
Katie Isaacs
29 views • 2 Jan 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260308481S01000-standard.jpg thumbnail
Book Covering With Handmade Paper for Fun
Kids Craft Ideas
16 views • 12 Feb 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260320491S91000-standard.jpg thumbnail
Make a Rolling Ball Puzzle Game for Kids
Things Kids Can Make
21 views • 24 Mar 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260125501S51000-standard.jpg thumbnail
Homemade Green Clay Mask For Cleansing The Skin
Natural Skin Care
27 views • 12 Sep 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260127081S91000-standard.jpg thumbnail
How to Make Honey Lip Balm
Natural Skin Care
20 views • 29 Nov 2023
/mystu/newpost/uploads/202310/260337571S71000-standard.jpg thumbnail
Make Super Easy Party Bag Cones
Kids Craft Club
44 views • 10 Jul 2023