DIY Projects

February 22, 2011

DIY Bar Cart

A well-stocked bar is a must-have for avid entertainers. By corralling bottles and glassware in one compact place, this do-it-yourself caddy is perfect for a small space of as a second drink station. It’s also inexpensive to make, especially if you already have a side table that could use sprucing up. When cocktail hour is over, simply roll it out of the way until it’s ready to be used again.

Materials and Tools

  • Side table
  • 4 casters
  • Sheet of cork
  • 5′ of brass ball chain
  • 8 eye hooks
  • Contact cement

Step 1: Choose a small wood table

I used an old side table, which I chose for its cool mod aesthetic. I also like that it has a second shelf, which can be used to store wineglasses and crystal. If you don’t already have a table to use, shop around flea markets and antique shops. Once you’ve chosen a table, drill holes in the base of each leg and screw in casters.

Step 2: Cover the tabletop with cork

Cut a piece of cork 2″ smaller than the surface of the tabletop. The cork will protect the surface and help prevent the bottles from sliding about. If your table is round, use a protractor to draw a circle on the sheet of cork, then cut it out using a utility knife. Adhere the cork to the tabletop with contact cement.

Step 3: Add a guardrail

A decorative chain rail gives the cart a polished look. I chose a brass ball chain, which is sold at most hardware stores, and diamond-shaped eye hooks to create geometric interest. With a pencil, mark eight evenly spaced points around the perimeter of the tabletop about 1″ in from the edge. Drill holes at each point and screw in the eye hooks. Cut the chain to size with pliers, loop it through the hooks and close with its fixed clasp.

eye hooks Mjölk; casters, Lee Valley Tools, wineglasses, ice bucket, Angus & Company; rug, Elte; corkscrew, Cynthia Finley Antiques; wall colour, Calke Green (34), Farrow & Ball.

Photographer:

John Cullen