Wooden Step Stool Using Scrap Wood

You know those simple projects you’ve wanted to do for a long time but never really got around to? This is one of those. Learn how to build a step stool made using scrap wood.

Directions

1. Cut lumber per the materials list.
   
2. Torch the wood. Lay the wood pieces on a concrete surface outdoors. Using the Bernzomatic BZ4500HS Heat Shrink Torch and the Bernzomatic propane tank, torch each piece of wood.
   
   Torch the various pieces to varying degrees, some 4-5 times till they were nice and dark. Tip: keep the torch moving slowly across the surface for a uniform look. If desired, paint a few boards of each size in desired colors wipe off excess paint, and torch them.
   
3. Make pocket holes with the Kreg jig in the 3/4" setting. There are holes going from one board to the next with no holes in the last board.
4. Join using wood glue and pocket hole screws to build the two sides of the step stool.
   
5. Attach treads using wood glue and 1-1/4" finish nails. 
   
   Attach them to one side and then place them over the other side and attach them.
   
   Torch the underside of the step stool using the BZ4500HS torch. This also creates the torched effect inside the pocket holes and helps blend them in.
   
6. Torch any edges that you missed earlier, like the front edge.
   
7. Using a fine sanding sponge, remove all the soot and wipe down to remove any residue.
8. Apply a few coats of spray poly to keep the ash from falling or rubbing onto feet. Allow to dry and cure for a couple of days.