Vintage Wood Wagon

Make your own vintage wood wagon - and detailed instruction.

Vintage Wood Wagon

Dimensions

Use the size-specific shopping and cut lists below.

Vintage Wood Wagon dimension diagram 1

What you need

  • 1 - 1x12 @ 4 feet long
  • 2 - 1x3 @ 8 feet long
  • 1 - 1x2 @ 30"
  • 1 - 1" dowel @ 7"
  • 72" of decorative metal or wood lath
  • 4 - 4" caster wheels (two swivel, two fixed) non-marking wheels
  • 2 - L brackets (3")
  • 1 - shear pin
  • Screws for attaching caster wheels and metal pieces (3/4" long)

Step by step

01

Step 1

Attach the bottom of the wagon crate the the front and back with 3/4" pocket holes and 1-1/4" pocket hole screws. This will hide pocket holes on the underside. Alternatively, 2" predrilled screws can be used. Make sure you glue as well - we want this project to last forever!

Vintage Wood Wagon, step 1
02

Step 2

Attach the side 1x3s to the 1x12 framing. 2" screws are prefered with glue. Take your time and line the screws up, as these screw holes may be visible in a stained finish.

Vintage Wood Wagon, step 2
03

Step 3

Add decorative metal pieces or wood lath using 3/4" screws. You will need to predrill holes in the metal. For more details on Jaime's decorative metal pieces, please read this post.

Vintage Wood Wagon, step 3
04

Step 4

Attach caster wheels to underisde of wood crate. If using fixed wheels, place on back (like a car, only front tires turn). You can also use all four swivel wheels as well.

Vintage Wood Wagon, step 4
05

Step 5

Vintage Wood Wagon, step 5
06

Finishing

Sand all surfaces, starting with a medium grit and finishing with fine. Wipe off the dust, fill any holes or gaps with wood filler, and sand smooth once dry. Apply primer if you're painting, then finish with your choice of paint or stain and seal with a durable clear topcoat. For outdoor projects, use exterior-rated primer, paint or stain, and sealer so the piece stands up to the weather.