Richard Felt: Pottery Barn Inspired Entry Organizer

Hey all, this is Corey from Sawdust 2 Stitches. I strongly believe that a space can be functional and beautiful. This principle even applies to the deadly front entry “DROP ZONE”. The 3 foot area that all shoes are removed, keys tossed, and clothes stripped. ( Are my kids the only ones that want to strip down when they walk in the door ?!) Well this area, needed to be a catch all that still looked pretty. Truth be told, this is one of my favorite corners in the house (aesthetically). I had a basket cubby already in place, but it was missing something… In a house full of hat wearers, a series of hooks seemed like a logical solution. But like I said, I wanted it to look pretty too… So here is what I did…

How to Build an Entry Organizer

I actually used a board from the Ikea clearance area for $2.50! If you have a chance check it out! If you strike out at Ikea, this look would still look great using a standard 1×12″ board.

Supplies Used:

1×12″ board
1×6″ board
1×2″ board
3/4″ Trim (6′)
Wood Glue
Hooks
Label Holders (If Desired
Paint
Nail Filler

Tools Suggested:

Miter Saw
Nail gun /Compressor (not necessary, but speeds things up)

Let’s get started!

Step 1: The Foundation

Cut 1×12″ @ 39″

Step 2: Add Shelf

Cut 1×6″ at 41″

Center on the top ledge of the 1×12 and secure. This can be done in one of several ways:

wood glue and finish nails
1 1/2″ Screws (pre-drill)
Pocket Holes on the backside of 1×12″

Step 3: Add Supports

Cut (2) 1×2″ @ 3 3/4″ (short point to short point with 45 degree angles on both ends. See diagram below.)

These will serve as supports for the top shelf, as well as make it look pretty!

entry organizer sawdust2stitches for Remodelaholic.com

Secure supports at the edge of the 1×12″ board.

To attach mine, I used wood glue and an 16 gauge 1 1/4″ nail. ( Again, a nail gun is not mandatory, but it sure makes life easier.)

Step 4: Add Trim

Cut 3/4″ trim

(1) @ 41″ (Short end to short end, with 45 degree angles on both ends) See diagram below.

(2) @ 5 1/2” (From straight edge to short end with 45 degree angle) See diagram below.

Proceed to attach the trim to the perimeter of the 1×6″; because this is strictly aesthetic, wood glue will suffice.

Step 5: Finish Work

Once all the glue is dry and completely set you can begin prep work.

Fill all holes with nail filler
Sand Down EVERYTHING
Wipe Down
Prime
Rub Down with Steel Wool
Paint ( I used Behr Ultra Pure White)
Re-coat if necessary

Step 6: Add Hardware

One of the great things I love about DIY is that you can always cater it to fit your style. You can choose any style of hook you would like! I purchased mine at the Home Depot. I love them!

Below you will find the measurements the spacing measurements that I used.

I also picked up some label holders from Hobby Lobby. I am just on a label kick and put them on everything… Seriously. I centered them approximately 2″ above the hooks.

Funny thing is, I have yet to actually put labels in any of them. Hmm.

Now you are ready to install, you have a couple options, you can either use a “French Cleat” bracket. These can be found in the picture hanging supplies at most hardware stores. OR you can do what I did… I used provided screws to attach the hooks to the boards. However, in 2 or 3 of them I used a much longer screw, so that it would go through the entire board and into the wall. I made sure I was into at least one stud for good measure. I haven’t had any problems, even when the kids pull on it!

There you have it! It serves a purpose, it fills the space nicely, and the shelf allows for added decoration. Little ledges like this are PERFECT for seasonal decor! If you want to learn more about this space, you should check out these tutorials: