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Free woodworking plan

Shaker Step Stool

Difficulty: Intermediate · Estimated time: about 7 hr of hands-on work, not counting glue and finish drying or cure time

A sturdy two-step stool joined with dados and screws.

A practical kitchen or shop stool. Introduces dado joints, layout from a pattern, and curved cuts with a jigsaw. Because people stand on it, glue and screw every tread, test it with your weight before use, keep loads under about 200 lb, and use it only on a flat floor.

Materials

Tools

Safety: Power tools and finishes can cause serious injury. Read and follow every tool and product manual, use guards and push sticks, wear eye and hearing protection, and work in a ventilated area. These plans are for general information; check measurements and your own skill before cutting. You build at your own risk, and Handy at Home is not liable for injury or damage. See the Terms.

Steps

  1. Cut parts

    Cut two sides (16"), two treads (15"), and one back stretcher (14-1/2"). The treads are the stretcher length plus the two 1/4" dado depths, so the parts line up.

    • Label each part as you cut so dados land on the correct face.

  2. Lay out sides

    Draw the stepped profile and the arch cutout on one side, then clamp both sides together.

    • Cut both sides together so they match exactly.

  3. Cut dados

    Rout 1/4"-deep dados for each tread using a straightedge guide.

    • Test the fit on scrap first.

  4. Shape

    Cut the profile and arch with a jigsaw; sand smooth.

    • Leave the line when cutting curves — sand back to it for a fair shape.

  5. Assemble

    Glue and screw every tread into its dados and attach the back stretcher. Check for square.

    • Pre-drill to avoid splitting pine.
    • Before use, stand on it on a flat floor and check for wobble. Not for loads over about 200 lb.

  6. Finish

    Fill screw holes, sand, and paint or stain.

    • If finishing for kids, use a durable, non-toxic finish and soften every sharp corner.

Always follow your tools’ safety instructions and wear eye protection. Free for personal use; please don’t resell or republish these plans.

© 2026 Handy at Home. Plan text and images are free for personal use only.