Chest holds holiday overflow

If you have children (or grandchildren), you know it’s getting close to that time of year when Santa brings new toys for all the little ones. Just in time for that holiday rush, this do-it-yourself toy chest and bench project is a fun and simple way to add storage space to any child’s room. It features a safe, sturdy design, plenty of room for toys inside and a handy bench top perfect for reading or tying shoes.

How to build it

The project requires only six pieces in all (cut from a single sheet of plywood) and includes full-size patterns for all the curved cuts. Construction is simple: just trace the pieces onto plywood, cut everything out, sand and assemble with glue and nails. Finish with nontoxic paint and decorate with stencils (as pictured), decals or – for a personal touch – the child’s name.

The toy chest and bench measures about 32 inches long by 17 inches deep by 24 inches tall (at the back) and can be mounted on casters for easy mobility.

The Toy Chest and Bench plan, No. 248, is $9.95 and includes full-size traceable patterns, assembly instructions, construction diagrams, a shopping list and cutting schedule and a toll-free help line for project questions.

How to order the plan

A package of four plans for children’s furniture, No. C79, is $24.95 and includes this project plus a table and chairs, a rocking chair and a desk. A free catalog picturing dozens of do-it-yourself projects is also available. Please include $4 for postage and handling and allow about two weeks for delivery.

To order by mail, clip this article and send it with a check or money order to U-Bild Features, c/o The Spokesman-Review, 3800 Oceanic Drive, Suite 107, Oceanside, CA 92056. To order by credit card, call (800) 828-2453.

Visit U-Bild on the web at u-bild.com.