DIY: Wood CD Holder

Mark boards using a pencil. On the inward facing sides, mark the top, bottom, front and back on each board. Marking in this manner identifies each piece for ease in measuring, drilling and assembling. The two boards will be mirror images of one another.

Draw a line parallel to the back of the board 3/4 inch in from the back and down its length. Measure 1/2 inch down from the top on that line, then 6 1/2 inches down from there, and mark it on the line with a pencil. Next, draw a line 5 1/4 inches below and parallel to the top edge of one board. On this line mark 1 1/2 inches and 4 3/4 inches from the back. Last, draw a line 3/4 inches above and parallel to the bottom. Using this line, mark at 1 1/2 and 4 3/4 inches from the back.

Repeat Step 2 on the second board. When finished marking,check your work. The boards are mirror images of one another and should match when the two boards are placed beside one another with interior surfaces facing. Do not begin drilling until you are sure you have marked the pieces correctly.

Clamp one piece of the pine board to the work table. Clamping the piece keeps it steady as you drill. Wear eye protection and work gloves. Drill the marked locations, centering the bit over the mark, with 1/2 inch bit. Drill each location to 3/8 inch depth. Repeat on the second board.

Sand the piece to clean up the drilled holes and edges. Round off the top and front edges to give the boards a finished appearance. Start with coarse grit sandpaper and progress to fine grit. Wipe off all dust with a dry cloth sprayed lightly with furniture cleaner or a tack cloth.

Apply wood glue to all holes and to the dowel ends, one side at a time. Wait for the first side to set up (at least one hour) before proceeding to the second side. Apply glue as you did to the first side and assemble the piece. Allow the piece to dry for 24 hours before using.