DIY Clothes Drying Rack for Quick Drying Needs

Have you ever caught yourself wrestling with an unstable drying rack or lamenting over minimal drying spaces, especially for those bulky swim gears and caps? Imagine crafting a stylish, sturdy, and space-efficient wall-mounted drying rack that folds neatly away when not in use. This project is not only a practical solution for everyday drying needs but also an engaging DIY task that adds a custom flair to your home utility. Inspired by an antique design, this adaptable rack blends functionality with vintage charm, ensuring all your swimwear dries effectively without the hassle of setting up temporary solutions.

Materials List

1 Red Oak Board (24″ x 10″ x 3/4″) – Pre-cut
5 Stair Balusters – EverTrue 38” Creative Stain Grade Red Oak Colonial Baluster
1 Section of 2″ Steel Angle Iron
1 Bolt (3/8″ x 8″)
4 Washers
- 2 Steel Washers (3/8″)
- 2 Steel Lock Washers (3/8″)
2 Nylon Washers (3/8″)
8 Lag Screws
- 6 x (1/4″ x 3.5″)
- 2 x (1/4″ x 1″)
8 Steel Washers (1/4″)
Pecan Color Polyurethane Stain
6 Sheetrock Anchors (1/4″), if needed

Tools Used

Saw (preferably a reciprocating saw for angle iron)
Drill with bits (3/8″ and 1/4″)
Sandpaper (fine grit)
Screwdriver
File (for smoothing metal edges)
Paintbrush (for applying stain)\

Construction Steps

Step 1: Prepare and Cut the Balusters

First, trim each stair baluster to 24 inches in length. Create a smooth bat-end on one side for hanging clothes by cutting at the wood turning break. On the other end, make a straight cut to establish a firm hinging section. Drill a 3/8″ hole for pivoting approximately 1 inch from the cut edge of each baluster.

Step 2: Fabricate the Angle Iron Brackets

Using a reciprocating saw, slice the steel angle iron into two identical brackets, each 2 inches wide. Drill a central 3/8″ pivot hole and two additional 1/4″ mounting holes in each bracket. Smooth all edges with a file to remove burrs, and apply two coats of clear acrylic to preserve the industrial look, or paint to match your decor.

Step 3: Assembly and Adjustment

Mount the brackets to the red oak board ensuring alignment and secure placement. Use the 1/4″ x 3.5″ lag screws for anchoring into the wall studs, and the shorter 1″ screws to affix to the baseboard. Insert nylon washers between the brackets and the balusters to prevent wood-metal friction.

Step 4: Sanding and Staining

Disassemble, then sand the wooden components with fine-grain sandpaper for a smooth finish. Apply two coats of polyurethane stain to all wooden parts, allowing adequate drying and light sanding between coats for a polished look.

Step 5: Final Installation

Reassemble the rack once the stain has fully dried. Position the rack against the wall, making sure it is level before securing it with the 1/4″ x 3.5″ lag screws into wall studs or robust sheetrock anchors.

Enjoy Your New Space-Saving Solution

Congratulations! You now have a functional and elegant clothes drying rack that makes drying swimwear, or any clothing, simple and efficient. Enjoy this blend of antique inspiration and modern DIY craftsmanship in your home.