How to build a garden tool rack in 5 easy steps

SKILL LEVEL: BEGINNER

In less than an hour you can get that jumble of long-handled yard tools neatly stored in this simple rack. The best part is, the rack will be customized to exactly the tools you want to store.

You can place it at any convenient height, as long as there is enough room for the tool handles to hang below. All you need is a length of 1×6 lumber, two 5-in. by 6-in. metal brackets, six 1¼-in. screws, and two 5/8-in. screws.

Suggested Yard Tools

Step 1: Decide On The Length

Lay your long-handled garden tools side by side with about 2 in. clearance separating each tool from the next. Use a tape measure to measure across the point where the handle meets each tool, determine the distance from the middle of one handle to the middle of the next and write down these measurements.

Step 2: Cut The Rack To Length And Lay Out The Holes

Add 12 in. to the sum of your handle measurements and cut a 1×6 to that length. Use a combination square to draw a line along the length of the board, ¾ in. from one edge with a carpenter pencil. Mark 6 in. along that line for the first tool and then make marks for the rest of the tool handles, adding 6 in. to each measurement you noted.

Step 3: Drill The Holes For Each Tool

Clamp the board to your bench with at least 2 in. overhanging along the length. Center a 2-in. hole saw over each mark and drill a hole. The saw will overlap the edge of the board, creating a slot for the handles. If you want to paint or finish the rack board, now is the time to do it.

Quick Tip

When using a hole saw, drill just until the pilot bit comes through the other side. Then flip the board, put the pilot bit in the pilot hole, and finish the cut. You’ll get a cleaner cut, and the waste piece won’t get stuck in the hole saw.

Step 4: Install The Brackets

Use a 4-ft. level to draw a line on the wall at your chosen height. Use a stud sensor to find the two studs that fall closest to where you want the ends of your rack to be. Center the brackets over the studs and with the line passing through the top holes of each bracket’s long leg. Mark for the screw holes. Pre-drill and then attach the brackets with 1¼-in. screws.

Step 5: Attach The Rack

Center the rack across the brackets, adjusting if necessary to prevent a slot from falling over a bracket. Mark for screw holes. Take the rack down to pre-drill and then use a screwdriver to secure it to the bracket with 5/8-in. screws

Done.

Now you're ready to get that heap of garden tools off the floor and onto your new hand-made garden tool rack!

article disclosure

To reduce the risk of personal injury and property damage, read and follow all related product manufacturers instruction manuals and information before performing any of the applications shown. Some construction-related applications shown may not be allowed in your local area. Consult your local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ) before starting work for information on permits, applicable codes, and other regulations. STANLEY disclaims any responsibility for any damage to property or injury to persons as a result of misuse of the information provided.