Make it yourself.
The anticipation of a new baby makes a nest-builder out of just about everyone in the family. One person's contributions might be ideas for curtains, but for the ambitious woodworker or would-be woodworker the idea is building a custom crib. While there are several ways to approach the task, the first decision is to consider only plans or blueprints that state clearly their compliance with the United States Consumer Product Safety Commission Guideline. Does this Spark an idea?
Get Plans Free
A confident, experienced woodworker will likely experience success with free crib plans, usually downloaded from the Internet. Plans are also available in woodworking magazines from time to time. They may provide adequate drawings but few detailed instructions. The help of a more experienced person might be needed or consultation with a online forum, paying special attention to recommendations or complaints about the plans.
Buy a Plan
Paying to download a crib plan or paying to have the plan mailed directly to the builder assures somewhat more detailed instruction than a free plan. The help of a more experienced hobbyist may be helpful, and the reviews of those who have built the crib are almost certainly informative. An inexperienced woodworker will not be happy with plans that turned out to be too difficult, while an experienced woodworker will rave about the result.
Get the Hardware
The source of crib plans for sale mostly likely will present the builder with options of buying the springs, drop-side hardware, plastic teething rails and even hand-turned spindles to match a choice of wood. If the source does not offer the hardware, plan to locate a dependable outlet elsewhere. In the long run, it may be desirable to buy a kit that includes both plans and all the hardware that will be needed.
Measure for a Mattress
Take extra care to determine that the finished crib will accommodate a standard crib mattress, which is 52 inches by 27 inches. Having a crib that will not hold a mattress would spoil the whole project; equally important, having a crib too large for a standard mattress would be completely unsatisfactory, possibly dangerous. If a special crib design is chosen, be aware that a custom mattress will be necessary. Many providers of nonstandard design plans will have suggestions for sources of such mattresses.
Benefits of Building a Crib
The crib made by Grandpa is immediately a family heirloom, even before it has been used. Furthermore, the new crib can be finished to match almost any other furniture or style of decor. A made-it-myself crib may be adapted for special needs, even an oversize crib or a round crib for multiples. Many crib plans come with directions for making a youth bed from the crib, thus extending the life of the effort and expenditure.
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