Search

Make it Modern: DIY 3D Trompe l’oeil Coat Rack

The brainstorming process for our Make it Modern DIYs is always a fun one. Jaime, our editor, and I spend some time emailing inspiration back and forth, until we can figure out a special twist or combination of things to make something unique and all our own. About a month ago, we started talking about this lampshade. We both loved the look, but wanted to do something new. I’ve also just moved into a new house and am a bit short on space. How could I make a statement piece that has a bold 3D look without it jutting into what little room I have left?

I scanned the house and considered my own needs: a coat tree was taking up a massive amount of space by my door. That was it! I would make a coat rack that lays flat against the wall, but looks three-dimensional. It could be highly functional, but still have a great sculptural look when not in use.

To make one for yourself, you’ll need:

DIY Trompe L'Oeil 3D Coat Rack

Supplies:
– four 4′ lengths of 1/4″x2″ kiln dried board (This is typically found near the trim and dowels in your hardware store)
– a mitre box and wood saw
– wood glue
– measuring tape
– 8 flat corner braces and 1/2″ screws (these usually come together in packs)
– a sanding block and medium- to coarse-grit sand paper
– a pencil
size #8 flat washers (optional)

Step 1:
Measure out four 8″ lengths of wood and, using the end of the mitre box, cut across at a 45° angle (the image shows 10″ – I re-cut the wood once I realized the box wasn’t quite the proportions I wanted!).

DIY Trompe L'Oeil 3D Coat Rack

DIY Trompe L'Oeil 3D Coat Rack

Cut four straight lengths at 12″, and four more at 17.5″. Check that your lengths are all even. If there is any variation, you can sand the longer lengths down to match. Don’t toss those scraps just yet – we’ll need them later on.

DIY Trompe L'Oeil 3D Coat Rack

Step 2:
First, we’re going to glue everything together. On the 12″ lengths, mark down 1.5″ from the top.

DIY Trompe L'Oeil 3D Coat Rack

Run a small bead of glue along the cut edges of your 17.5″ lengths, and arrange the 12″ and 17.5″ lengths as shown below, with the top length set in at the 1.5″ marks you made. Repeat these steps with the second set of 12″ and 17.5″ lengths.

DIY Trompe L'Oeil 3D Coat Rack

DIY Trompe L'Oeil 3D Coat Rack

Step 3:
Once the glue has dried, attach the 8″ angled lengths in the same manner, arranged as shown in the photo below (it helps to have some craft paper, so that you don’t glue the wood to your work surface!).

DIY Trompe L'Oeil 3D Coat Rack

If you want a little more room between the front and back of the coat rack, you can use some of the scrap wood to create space where the lengths cross over.

DIY Trompe L'Oeil 3D Coat Rack

DIY Trompe L'Oeil 3D Coat Rack

Place the front piece on top of the back piece and secure with glue, making sure all your edges align.

DIY Trompe L'Oeil 3D Coat Rack

Step 4:
Flip the rack over so that it’s face-down on your work surface. For better support, you can glue some of the scrap wood across any joints that need reinforcement, and follow by attaching the corner braces. If it seems like the screws are going to come through the wood, use the washers to add space on either side of the corner braces.

DIY Trompe L'Oeil 3D Coat Rack

DIY Trompe L'Oeil 3D Coat Rack

Flip the rack back over, and you’re just about done.

DIY Trompe L'Oeil 3D Coat Rack

Step 5:
Since wall material varies, there are a number of ways to hang the coat rack. You can try using picture hanging hardware, angled hardwood, or – what I did – a couple of discreet pin nails in the corners. Don’t be afraid to browse around your hardware store and ask for suggestions if you need to.

DIY Trompe L'Oeil 3D Coat Rack

DIY Trompe L'Oeil 3D Coat Rack

Use it to hold your keys, mail, scarves, hats, or jackets. It makes a great space-saving solution without any sacrifice in style.

DIY Trompe L'Oeil 3D Coat Rack

DIY Trompe L'Oeil 3D Coat Rack

Meg Kemner gained her informal education at Space 1026, beginning in the print industry and weaving seamlessly through roles in photography, editorial, digital media, art, fashion, interiors and graphic design. When she isn't hunting for new and strange materials at local hardware stores and flea markets, Meg consolidates her creative work at MK Dept. of Treasury and writes the Design Milk DIY column.