DIY Rustic Caddy Centerpiece
Looking to add some rustic elegance to your table? From summer to winter, this easy-to-make caddy centerpiece is perfect for any season.
Are you craving a charming centerpiece that’s versatile and easy to make? This rustic caddy is about to become your new favorite home decor piece. With just a few pieces of wood, you can make this adorable project that effortlessly transitions from summer BBQs to cozy winter gatherings. I’ll show you how to make it in this step-by-step tutorial.
Table of Contents
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Inspiration For This Project
My friend Colleen has a fantastic sense of style and a knack for finding the coolest home decor pieces. The other day, she sent me a photo of an adorable caddy-style centerpiece, saying, “These are super cute, especially for summer, but I could see them at Christmas too.”
She was right. The simple design was super cute, so I immediately sketched out my own version. I can totally see using it year-round.
My grandma always had a bowl of mixed nuts on the table around Thanksgiving, so that would be an option for fall—or mini trees at Christmastime. The possibilities are endless.
What Wood Should You Use?
The inspiration piece appeared to be made with ½” material, so I wanted to use that for my project. I had some ½” cedar leftover from my raised planter, so that’s what I used for this project.
Looking for ½” material? Check the craft board section at your local home improvement store.
I used ½” solid wood for the bottom because that’s what I had on hand, but I’d recommend using plywood instead. Solid wood expands and contracts with changes in humidity, which could cause the bottom to push the sides apart or even crack them. Plywood is more stable and would be a better choice.
What Tools Do You Need?
I used four tools to make my centerpiece:
- Miter saw
- Table saw
- Drill press or handheld drill
- Brad nailer or hammer
How to Make a Rustic Caddy Centerpiece
Printed Plan
Get the PDF plan here (includes detailed instructions, measurements, and bonus tips)
Materials
- Wood (per the printed plan)
- Wood Glue
- ¾” Brad Nails
Tools
- Tape Measure
- Kreg Multi-Mark
- Table Saw
- Miter Saw
- Brad Nailer or Hammer
- Drill Press or Drill
- ⅞” Forstner Bit
Step 1. Attach the Short Sides
I used solid wood for the bottom because I had some leftover from making my raised planter, but I’d recommend using plywood instead. Solid wood expands and contracts with changes in humidity, which could cause the bottom to push the sides apart or even crack them. Plywood is more stable and would be a better choice.
Using my miter saw, I cut a board to length for the bottom. With my table saw, I ripped it to width.
Related: 21 Table Saw Safety Rules (& Mistakes to Avoid)
At the miter saw, I cut two pieces of wood to length for the short sides.
With my Kreg Multi-Mark, I made a reference line along one edge to guide where to position the brad nails.
I placed the sides on the bottom and attached them using brad nails.
Step 2. Attach the Long Sides
For the best fit, I placed a piece of wood on the assembly and marked it for length.
Using my miter saw, I cut two pieces to this length for the long sides.
With my Kreg Multi-Mark, I made a reference line along one edge to guide where to position the brad nails.
I placed the sides on the bottom and attached them using brad nails.
Step 3. Attach the Handle
At the miter saw, I cut two pieces of wood to length for the holders.
Following the diagram in the printed plan, I marked the location for holes to attach the handle.
Using an awl, I made a starting point for the drill bit.
Related: What is an Awl? (& How to Use It)
With my Kreg Multi-Mark, I made a reference mark on a piece of scrap wood the same thickness as my holder material.
I installed a Forstner bit in my drill press and placed the scrap wood beside it.
Related: What is a Forstner Bit? (& How to Use It)
With the drill off, I lowered the bit, aligning its cutting edge with the pencil mark, and adjusted the depth stop.
With the drill press off, I lowered the bit, positioning its spur in the indentation I made with the awl.
Once in position, I drilled a hole at each mark.
Using my Kreg Multi-Mark, I centered one holder on the assembly.
I attached it using brad nails.
At the miter saw, I cut one piece of dowel to length.
I placed the dowel between the holders and, with my Multi-Mark, centered the second holder on the assembly.
I attached it using brad nails.
Includes:
- List of tools and materials
- Complete measurements (in inches)
- Easy-to-follow instructions
- Step-by-step photos
- Detailed diagrams
Final Thoughts
There you have it. Transform a few simple materials into a charming, rustic caddy centerpiece. The beauty of this project lies in its versatility. You can customize it for any season or to elevate any occasion.
Get your PDF plan (including the detailed instructions and measurements) now!
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