I think my family has set a new record for being ill at this time of the year. And what’s really sad is that I know it isn’t just our family. The flu hit Baby Keats this week. Thankfully he is a little fighter and is slowly getting better. So far no one else has come down with anything this week.
Despite the circumstances with an extra helper at home, I am pleased with what I accomplished over this week. No it wasn’t everything but being flexible is key!
Shoe Nook Assembly
There was a lot of trial and error on this part.
I attached the top of the shoe nook to the sides. I tried out two different ways of attaching the pieces. One way was just liquid nails, clamps, and a brad nailer. The other was pocket holes on the top board and then clamps and screws to secure it. I personally liked the pocket hole route the best over liquid nails because of the mess. This could be because I just met liquid nails… and maybe I need to get to know him a little bit better. I assembled these solo and used heavy weights to keep the shelves upright. I measured the heights of both of our shoes so I had a better idea of shelf spacing. I cut some scrap 2x4s to the desired heights and used these as spacers between the shelves. I’d recommend labeling the heights on each of the scrap pieces.
Shelves
I measured and cut all my boards for the shelves for both shoe nooks using a circular saw and table saw(not necessary). I added pocket holes to both ends of the shelves at 1/2″ depth. My shelves are 1/2″ thick and the frame sides are 3/4″ thick.
To add a shelf I would use the shelf spacers, speed square, and level to make sure everything was correct before I clamped everything in place. After I clamped everything into place, I used my drill and #1 kreg pocket screws to secure the shelves in place. I had planned on attaching a 1/4” thick plywood to the back of the shelves but it was easier to attach this to the wall inside the closet first. I sanded all my edges and fronts of the shelves to make sure everything was level as possible for trim.
I used multipurpose wood screws to attach the shoe nooks inside the closet. I added wood filler on all my pocket holes. I should have added some pocket hole plugs but I didn’t have any on hand at the time. After my wood filler dried, I sanded everything down with a 120 grit sanding pad.
Caulk Time
I added some caulk saver to some of the areas where I had a space larger than 1/4”. This was a quick helper when you’re in a pinch.
Then I caulked all the seams between my sections.
How to caulk: First, run a like of caulk along the seam. Then use your finger to smooth out the caulk in one swift motion. Rub your finger in the bowl of water to remove the caulk. Next grab your damp sponge and wipe along the caulk one more time, Rinse out the sponge in the bowl of water. Start your next line! I found this much easier than using a damp rag.
Next up, primer! I primed the shoe nooks, closet walls, and ceiling.
Adding trim
I found this trim at Home Depot that I really liked to frame out the face of the shoe nooks (shelves and sides). I grabbed these other pieces to cut down with my table saw for the molding and baseboards. Normally, you could grab baseboards and molding that is ready-to-go at your hardware store, but mine had a few things out of stock. I knew I wanted a flat panel look all around, so I opted for this instead.
This is a great trim and moulding cutter alternative if you don’t have a saw on hand and need to do some trim work.
My plan is to finish out all the trim tonight and add wood filler where its needed. I have Behr Ultra White Semi-Gloss paint on hand to use ASAP. Then I need to hang the closet rods and the inner closet portion will be complete.
Decor Picks for the Week
I had a lot of help from friends and family on Instagram and Facebook this week. I had everyone vote on three different beddings.
I ordered some fabric samples with different color piping of the bedding from Serena and Lily. I want to see what they look like next to the wallpaper. The bedding I’m ordering can be found here.
I also ordered a jute rug for the bedroom. My good friend Jeni had a great point when ordering rugs online. She recommended ordering one from an online store but with a store front to make a return easier if needed.
Week 5 Plan
- The entire closet has to be done by Week 6!
- Select bedding from samples and order ASAP
- Find a fan and wall scones
- Look for a mattress and order
- Decide if the rug is a fit for the space-if yes order rug pad and decide on a topper
- Find pillows and linens
- STAY WELL!
Remember to check out all the participants in the ORC here!
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