How to Make a Dry Bar

Draw your bar plans. Use a tape measure to determine the length, breadth and height, plus the shape that best fits into your space. If your bar is to be outdoors, you need to add a roof and possibly wind and rain screens, and may need a permit from your local building department. You may want to add an electrical outlet for lighting and a refrigerator. Experienced do-it-yourselfers may design a round or irregular-shaped bar, but novices may find it easier to make a simple rectangular bar counter.

Build the frame. Cut the two-by-four pieces of lumber to size and make a rectangular frame for the base of the bar. Use a carpenter's square to get the angles correct and screw the pieces together. Build a replica of the base for the top of the bar. Join the top and bottom pieces with the two-by-two lumber, one two-by-two at each corner, and securely screw the pieces together. Add two or more two-by-twos, cut to size, across the top of the frame to give the bar counter strength and support. Add interior framing for shelves and frame a space for a refrigerator, if desired.

Cut the siding the right size and nail it on three sides of the structure, leaving the bartender's side open. Use your tape measure, marker and carpenter's square to align the siding with the top and base. Add doors with strong hinges to the bartender's side. For the siding, use plywood, hardwood strips, rough-hewn planks, log siding, corrugated roofing material or any other material that works for you.

Install the bar counter top. Screw the top onto the frame. The counter top is usually made of a more solid material. It may be prefabricated or you may fabricate it before installation, in which case it should be well sanded to ensure that it is smooth and does not give off splinters. Apply a coat of polyurethane if necessary to the counter top and siding. Screw a prefabricated foot rail one foot above the floor onto the guest side of the bar.

Install shelves inside the bar counter. For added effect, you can cover the inside wall with mirror tiles or screw a large mirror on the wall behind where the shelves will be. Decorate the bar with your preferred items -- a trip to the local thrift store can provide a number of useful pieces. Stock the shelves with glasses and liquor, and put the beer and sodas in the refrigerator and invite your friends around to celebrate.