Woodworking Toy Chest Project

I am in the middle of taking a woodworking class at the local tech college. Today was the first official day in the shop. I had a hard time trying to find a project to tackle. I finally chose a toy chest for my older son's bedroom. I got the free woodworking plans from the Georgia Pacific website, just scroll down and look for the toy chest PDF. I went to Lowe's with the two page print out in hand to get all of my supplies. I learned a lot in this visit. One, don't trust the staff to give you the right stuff. He over sold me two pieces of 4'x8' MDF (medium density fiberboard) sheets. That is A LOT! About $40 extra. I think I could have just bought 1 sheet of MDF, vs. the three they suggested. I showed him the plans and he estimated what I needed. I took his word for it. I learned that since these plans didn't total everything up and tell me what I needed that I should have figured it out myself. I just didn't know what size the MDF came in. But, once I did find that out I should have done the calculations myself. They had to cut the MDF to fit it in my Durango so I can't return it. Bummer! Lesson learned. I still like Lowe's though, but just be sure that you know exactly what you are getting. The sales staff is very busy and may not be able to give their 100% attention to you.

I also learned that MDF is VERY heavy. Even though the project called for MDF, I could have substituted plywood, which is a lot lighter. My final piece is going to be very heavy. I don't think I will be able to lift it. (Thank goodness for my hubby!) And finally, I also learned that MDF isn't as strong as plywood in longer lengths. It is NOT good for making long shelves b/c with a little pressure, it can just snap. So, hopefully my project still turns out OK. I think it will. I plan to put wood letters on the top spelling out my sons name to keep him from standing on it. It could handle his weight now but maybe not so much down the road as he grows. I don't want the top to snap so by adding the letters it will not only look cute but may prevent him from standing on it. We shall see. I will be sure to post a photo when I am done. I have another class on Thursday and get to use the table saw for the first time. Exciting and scary all at the same time. Wish me luck!

Happy Crafting,
Madame Craftsalot