Rustic Coat Rack Using Railroad Spikes
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In this project, I build a rustic coat rack utilizing railroad spikes as the hooks.
Supplies
(1) 4"x4"x6' Cedar Board (alternate option: pine board)
(1) 2"x4"x6' Cedar Board (alternate option: pine board)
(4) 4" Deck Screws
Tools
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Step 1: Cut Wood to Length
Cut the wood to length using a mitre saw. See picture above for standard coat rack dimensions.
Step 2: Construct Base
The plan is to notch the two 2x4's and wood glue them together for a strong bond.
Mill the 2x4's by setting the depth on the mitre saw to half the thickness of the board.
Cleanup the rest with a chisel and 60 grit sandpaper.
Apply wood glue and clamp together.
Step 3: Drill Holes for Railroad Spikes
Drill holes for railroad spikes using a 3/4" spade bit.
Tilt spade bit at ~45 degrees. I used a mark on my speed square for reference. Tape on the spade bit for a depth guide.
As for location of holes please see picture with dimensions for reference.
Step 4: Install Base Onto Post
Mark center points on post and base.
Drill 1/2" hole through the base using a drill block.
Drill 1/2" hole to a depth of 4" in the post using a drill block.
Apply wood glue to mating surfaces and insert wood dowel (hammer in dowel if necessary).
Align base and drill 1/8" pilot hole for the screws.
Screw in the 4 wood screws.
Cut off excess dowel with a flush cut saw.
Step 5: Prepare Railroad Spikes
Remove rust from railroad spikes. I used Evaporust. I let it soak for 24 hours and wiped them clean with a rag.
Cut 1 inch off the end of 4 railroad spikes. These are the spikes that oppose each other. This will eliminate any interference when installing.
Two coats of black 2in1 paint/primer.
Step 6: Install Railroad Spikes
Smooth surface around the holes with a palm sander.
Mask surface around the holes with tuck tape to avoid epoxy runoff.
Coat the inside of the holes with epoxy and hammer in the railroad spikes. Let epoxy cure for 24 hours.
Fill in small gaps with wood fill.
Step 7: Finish Rack
Sand entire rack to 320 grit.
Rub stain into rack with a lint free rag and let dry for 24 hours.
Spray on a coat of lacquer for protection.
All done!