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Step Stool Plans
A two-step stool made of two stacked boxes: a long lower box for the first step and a short upper box on its back half for the second. Each box has a back panel and a front rail, so it is rigid in every direction and will not tip when someone steps on the front edge. It is a simple wood step stool for the kitchen or a child’s bathroom.
- Default size
- 400 × 450 × 400 mm
- Parts
- 10 pieces · 8 sizes
- Sheets (2440 × 1220 mm (4 × 8 ft))
- 1 carcass
- Difficulty
- Easy
- Build time
- About 3 hours
- Edge band
- 3.9 m
Cut list (default size)
| Part | Qty | Length | Width | Thick. | Board | Edges |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lower step | 1 | 400 | 400 | 18 | Carcass board 18 mm | |
| Lower side | 2 | 400 | 207 | 18 | Carcass board 18 mm | |
| Lower back | 1 | 364 | 207 | 18 | Carcass board 18 mm |
Sizes in millimetres; length runs along the grain. Edges: bold lines are banded.
5 more parts, the sheet layout and the cut order are in the full plan.Resize it to any size, print labels and save it in a project.Sign in free to open it
How it is built
- The stool is two boxes: the upper box stands on the back half of the lower step and is screwed down through it.
- Each box has a back panel and a front rail under its step, so it cannot rack.
- Round all edges and corners, and add non-slip strips to the steps.
Common mistakes
- Making the stool narrow and tall: it tips sideways. Keep the width at least 300 mm, more for taller stools.
- Leaving the front rails out: the step flexes and the joints loosen.
Tools you need
- Circular saw or table saw
- Drill/driver
- Sander
- Clamps
Frequently asked questions
How high should a step stool be?
For a child at the bathroom sink, about 300–400 mm (12–16 in) to the top step; for an adult reaching a high shelf, 450–500 mm. Each step should rise 150–230 mm.
How deep should the steps be?
At least 180–200 mm (7–8 in) per step so a whole foot fits. The plan splits the depth evenly between the two steps.
What board is best?
18 mm (3/4 in) plywood: it holds screws in its edges and does not break if the stool is dropped. Round every edge and corner.
