How To Make An Inexpensive Lazy Susan?

Are you tired of struggling to reach items at the back of your pantry or on your dining table? Well, look no further because we have the perfect solution for you: a homemade lazy Susan!

How To Make An Inexpensive Lazy Susan? To make an inexpensive lazy susan, glue together two plywood pieces, attach lazy susan hardware, sand for smoothness, and use for easy access to stored items by spinning.

In this article, we will show you how to make an inexpensive lazy susan using materials and tools that are easily accessible.

We will guide you through gathering all the necessary materials and tools for this project. You’ll be surprised at how simple and affordable it is to create your very own lazy susan. Then, we’ll move on to measuring and cutting the base, ensuring that it fits perfectly in the desired space.

We will explain how to attach the bearing, which is the key component that allows the lazy susan to rotate smoothly. We’ll provide step-by-step instructions on how to securely fasten the bearing to the base, ensuring stability and durability. Once that is done, we will move on to attaching the top surface, giving you the freedom to customize it to your liking.

Finally, we’ll conclude with tips on how to finish the lazy susan, adding a touch of style and ensuring it is ready for use.

To make an inexpensive lazy susan:

Materials Needed:

• Two same-sized round plywood pieces
• Lazy susan hardware (available at hardware stores)
• Wood glue
• Screws
• Drill

Assembly:

• Apply wood glue to the edges of one plywood piece.
• Place the other plywood piece on top, ensuring they’re aligned.
• Secure the pieces together with screws around the edges.

Attach Lazy Susan Hardware:

• Center the lazy susan hardware on the bottom plywood piece.
• Use a drill to attach the hardware according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Finish:

• Sand the edges and surfaces of the lazy susan for a smooth finish.
• Optionally, paint or stain the lazy susan to match your decor.

Usage:

• Place the lazy susan on a table or countertop.
• Use it to easily access items stored on its surface by spinning it.

So let’s get started on creating your very own inexpensive lazy Susan that will make your life so much easier!

Gather Your Materials and Tools

To start, gather all the necessary materials and tools for creating your inexpensive lazy susan. Look for alternative lazy Susan designs that fit your budget and preferences. You can find affordable options at your local craft store or even repurpose items you already have at home.

Some popular alternatives include using a round wooden tray, a cake stand, or even a large ceramic tile. Choose one that suits your style and needs.

Next, gather the necessary tools for assembling your lazy susan. You’ll need a drill, screws, and a screwdriver. If you don’t have these tools, consider borrowing them from a friend or neighbor instead of purchasing them. It’s a great way to save money and reduce waste.

Additionally, gather any materials you might need for decorating your lazy susan. This could include paint, stencils, or adhesive paper. Get creative and personalize your lazy susan to match your home decor or add a pop of color to your dining table.

Remember to have fun with the process and enjoy the satisfaction of creating something unique and inexpensive.

Measure and Cut the Base

First, carefully measure and cut the base for your DIY rotating tray. To ensure accuracy, use a tape measure to measure the desired dimensions of your lazy susan base. Mark the measurements on a sturdy material such as plywood or MDF board. Next, using a circular saw or a jigsaw, carefully cut along the marked lines. Remember to wear protective goggles and gloves for safety. If you don’t have access to power tools, you can also use a handsaw, although it may take a bit longer. Alternatively, if you prefer a round lazy susan, you can also use a large round wood plaque or a repurposed round tabletop as the base. Just make sure to measure and cut it to the desired size.

To help you understand the cutting techniques and alternative materials better, here is a table:

By incorporating these different cutting techniques and alternative materials, you can create an inexpensive lazy susan that suits your needs.

Attach the Bearing

To attach the bearing to your lazy Susan, you’ll need to first choose the appropriate bearing for your specific project. Consider factors such as weight capacity and smooth rotation when making your selection.

Once you have the right bearing, securely attach it to the center of the base using screws or bolts.

Choose the appropriate bearing for your lazy Susan

When choosing the right bearing for your lazy Susan, you’ll want to consider factors like smooth rotation and durability. The bearing is a crucial component that allows your lazy Susan to spin smoothly and effortlessly. There are several types of bearings available in the market, but the most commonly used ones for lazy Susan are ball bearings and roller bearings.

Ball bearings consist of a series of small metal balls that are enclosed within a metal ring. They provide excellent smoothness and are ideal for light to medium loads. On the other hand, roller bearings have cylindrical rollers instead of balls, which distribute the load evenly and can handle heavier loads. Both types of bearings are available in different sizes, so make sure to choose the one that fits your lazy Susan’s dimensions. Additionally, proper maintenance of lazy Susan bearings is crucial to ensure their longevity. Regular cleaning and lubrication will prevent rusting and keep the bearings functioning smoothly. Now, let’s take a look at the table below to understand the key differences between ball bearings and roller bearings.

As you can see, ball bearings offer excellent smooth rotation but have a moderate level of durability. On the other hand, roller bearings provide good rotation and have a high level of durability. Consider your specific needs and the weight of the items you’ll be placing on your lazy Susan to determine which bearing type is the most suitable for you.

Secure the bearing to the center of the base

Now let’s dive into securing the bearing to the center of the base, ensuring a stable and reliable foundation for your rotating centerpiece.

To secure the bearing, begin by placing it in the center of the base and aligning it properly. Make sure the bearing is centered and sits flush with the surface of the base.

Once in position, use screws or bolts to attach the bearing to the base. Be sure to choose screws or bolts that are appropriate for the material of your base to ensure a strong connection.

To further enhance the stability of the bearing, consider adding a layer of support. You can do this by attaching a wooden or metal disc to the bottom of the base, directly underneath the bearing. This extra layer will distribute the weight evenly and provide extra reinforcement.

Finally, give the bearing a test spin to ensure it rotates smoothly and without any wobbling. With the bearing securely attached to the center of the base, you can now move on to the next steps of building your inexpensive lazy susan.

Attach the Top Surface

To attach the top surface of your lazy susan, you’ll first need to select a suitable material. Consider using a sturdy and smooth material like plywood or acrylic.

Once you have your material, use screws or adhesive to securely attach it to the base of your lazy susan. Make sure it rotates smoothly.

Select the material for the top surface

One option for the top surface material is plywood. Plywood is a versatile and affordable material that can be easily found at most hardware stores. It’s strong and durable, making it a suitable choice for a lazy susan. You can apply different types of finishes such as paint, stain, or varnish to enhance the appearance of the plywood. These finishes not only protect the wood but also add a touch of elegance to the lazy susan.

Additionally, you can add a decorative edge to the top surface by using a router or wood molding. This will give the lazy susan a more polished and finished look, making it a stylish addition to your home.

Another option for the top surface material is melamine. Melamine is a type of laminate commonly used in furniture and cabinetry. It’s known for its durability and resistance to scratches and stains. Melamine is available in a variety of colors and patterns, allowing you to choose one that matches your aesthetic preferences.

To add a decorative edge to the melamine top surface, you can use edge banding. Edge banding is a thin strip of material applied to the edges of the melamine to give it a finished look. It’s available in different colors and finishes, allowing you to create a seamless and cohesive design for your lazy susan.

Attach the top surface to the base, ensuring it rotates smoothly

Attaching the top surface to the base guarantees a seamless rotation, ensuring a functional and visually appealing final product. To achieve this, there are a few key tips to keep in mind.

First, make sure to use strong adhesive or screws to secure the top surface firmly onto the base. This will prevent any wobbling or instability when the lazy Susan is in use. Additionally, consider adding a small amount of lubricant to the rotating mechanism to reduce friction and promote smoother rotation.

Once you’ve successfully attached the top surface to the base, you can start enjoying the many benefits of a lazy susan. Not only does it provide convenience and accessibility, but it can also add a touch of creativity to your home.

Use it in your kitchen pantry to easily access spices or condiments, or place it on your dining table to showcase a variety of appetizers or desserts. The options are endless!

By incorporating a lazy susan into your home, you can keep your space organized and efficiently utilize every corner.

Customize and Finish

For a personal touch, you can easily jazz up your inexpensive lazy susan with a unique design or a pop of color. There are plenty of customized options available to make your lazy susan stand out. You can paint the top surface with bright colors, create patterns with stencils, or even decoupage it with interesting images or fabrics.

Another option is to use contact paper or adhesive vinyl to create a custom design. With a little creativity, you can transform your plain lazy susan into a stylish and eye-catching centerpiece for your table.

In addition to customization, you can also explore alternative finishes to give your inexpensive lazy Susan a more polished look. Instead of leaving the wood bare, you can stain it using a variety of wood stains available in different shades. This will enhance the natural beauty of the wood grain and give it a more sophisticated appearance. If you prefer a glossy finish, you can apply a clear varnish or polyurethane coating. This will not only protect the wood but also give it a smooth and shiny finish.

By choosing the right customized options and finishes, you can create a one-of-a-kind lazy susan that reflects your style and adds a touch of elegance to your dining experience.

Conclusion

So there you have it – a simple and inexpensive way to make your own lazy susan! By gathering the materials and tools needed, measuring and cutting the base, attaching the bearing, and finally adding the top surface, you can create a functional and convenient rotating platform for your kitchen or dining table.

And don’t forget to customize and finish it to match your personal style! With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy the convenience of a lazy susan without breaking the bank.

Not only is this DIY project cost-effective, but it also allows you to unleash your creativity and customize the lazy susan to fit your specific needs and preferences. Whether you want to add a pop of color with a vibrant paint job or incorporate a unique design with decals or stencils, the possibilities are endless.

Plus, by making your own lazy susan, you can ensure that it is sturdy and reliable, capable of supporting all your dishes and condiments.

So why wait? Get started on your own inexpensive lazy Susan today and enjoy the convenience and functionality it brings to your dining experience!