Designing your own crib puts you in control of every aspect.
Welcoming a new baby is a special event. What better way to honor the occasion than by building a crib by hand and from the heart? If you can't find plans for the crib you envision or don't want to purchase them from someone else, consider making your own crib plans. As a do-it-yourself woodworker, you will find a variety of methods to create the personalized crib of your dreams.
Instructions
1. Always check that your plans correlate with safety regulations on slat spacing and crib height.
Draw your own plans by hand. Use a pencil and paper to sketch a rough drawing of the design and then make an accurate drawing to scale. Incorporate all safety regulations as determined by the Consumer Product Safety Commission, including slats that are no more than 2.375 inches apart and secure mattress supports anchored by covered bolts. Create a thorough drawing complete with accurate measurements, a materials list and notations of any joints and connection points. The drawing may serve as your plans, or you can transfer the drawing to blueprints.
2. Computer-aided drawing and design software can help you plan the crib you envision.
Use computer-based software to design your crib plans according to your exact specifications. Several design software programs are available for purchase, and some are available for use online for free. Input the dimensions and materials and then use a computer mouse to draw the details of your design. Once your design is complete, print the plans for reference. Some software programs will print a list of all the materials and hardware needed along with step-by-step directions for building the crib you designed.
3. You can even modify an existing plan for a cradle and supersize it for a crib.
Modify an existing plan for a crib. If you find plans for building an acceptable crib but they don't match your specifications, alter them to suit your needs. You might vary the material, change the width of the crib slats or change the height of the legs. A basic plan can be changed to add stylistic details, special carvings or inlaid wood. The possibilities are endless.
Tags: your crib, your plans, building crib, crib envision, design software, drawing design