Blankets are great—until they start taking over your couch, chairs, or that one corner of the bed you keep telling yourself you’ll clean up. Enter the blanket ladder: simple, stylish, and surprisingly easy to make. Whether you’re short on closet space or want to add some warmth to a room, a blanket ladder is both functional and decorative. The best part? You can build one yourself without needing a woodshop or many tools.
What You’ll Need
This project doesn’t require fancy equipment. Here’s a basic list to get you started:
- Two wooden boards (around 6 feet long for the sides)
- Four to five wooden dowels or 1″ thick rungs (about 18″ each)
- Wood screws or nails
- Drill or hammer
- Wood glue (optional for extra hold)
- Sandpaper
- Paint or stain (optional, depending on your vibe)
Step-by-Step: Build Your Blanket Ladder
1. Cut and Sand the Wood
Make sure all your pieces are the right length. Sand everything down so you’re not risking splinters every time you grab a blanket. A quick once-over is usually enough.
2. Measure and Mark
Lay the two longer boards side by side. Decide how far apart you want each rung (usually 12-14 inches works well). Mark where each rung will go to keep everything level.
3. Drill and Attach Rungs
Use your drill to make pilot holes in the long boards, then screw in the dowels. You can add a little wood glue for extra grip, but screws or nails alone will do the job. Make sure the rungs are straight—it’s a ladder, not modern art.
4. Paint, Stain, or Leave Natural
You can leave the wood raw for a rustic look, paint it black for something modern, or stain it to match your furniture. Let it dry completely before use.
5. Lean and Style
Once dry, lean the ladder against a wall. Fold your blankets and drape them over the rungs. That’s it—you just added storage and a cozy vibe to your space in the afternoon.
Why It Works
A blanket ladder doesn’t take up much room, and it turns something you usually stash away into a part of your décor. It’s practical, looks good, and makes your space feel more put-together without trying too hard.
Wrap Up
If you’re looking for an easy weekend project with real impact, this is it. A DIY blanket ladder is a small effort with a big payoff—less mess, more style, and a home that feels warm in all the right ways. Plus, you get to say “Yeah, I made that,” every time someone compliments it.