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Wooden Dowels in Arts and Crafts: Inspiring Creations and Ideas

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Wooden Dowels in Arts and Crafts: Inspiring Creations and Ideas

Aug 12, 2024
"Wooden Dowels in Arts and Crafts: Inspiring Creations and Ideas" text with chair and Midwest Dowel logo

Have you considered trying something new this summer?

The summer is the perfect time to try out a new craft and dive into the world of DIY projects. With the warm weather and longer days, there's no better opportunity to explore your creativity and make something unique.  

Wooden dowels, with their versatility and ease of use, are an excellent way to create a wide range of projects. Their cylindrical shape and uniform size make them perfect for structural elements, decorative accents, and functional pieces alike. 

In this blog, we will explore five exciting and practical DIY dowel projects that you can tackle this summer. These projects are a child’s fort, a clothing drying rack, a welcoming wooden dowel doormat, a stylish side table, and a decorative ladder. Each one will inspire you to pick up your tools and start crafting. 

To get you started, we recommend checking out our large selection of high-quality dowels from Midwest Dowel

Keep reading to discover the endless possibilities that wooden dowels offer for your next DIY adventure! 

A teepee made from wooden dowels and blankets

Dowel Play Fort 


A child's fort is a delightful and imaginative addition to your home, providing a fun and creative space for children to play and explore. It's simple yet sturdy design offers endless possibilities for adventure, fostering creativity and imaginative play. 

To assemble a child's fort, use hardwood species like poplar or birch for their balance of strength and light weight. We advise using dowel sizes 1 inch in diameter for the main structure and 3/4 inch for additional supports.  

Cut the dowels to the required lengths, sand them smoothly, and assemble using wood glue and screws for stability. Cover the frame with fabric or blankets to create a cozy hideaway. This fort not only adds a unique play area to your home but also encourages hours of creative fun for children. 

Linens draped over a drying rack

Drying Rack 


A dowel clothing drying rack is a unique and eco-friendly addition to your home, offering a stylish and practical solution for air-drying clothes. Its foldable design saves space while providing ample room for drying garments, reducing your reliance on electric dryers and saving energy. 

To assemble a clothing drying rack, use hardwood species like oak or maple for their strength and durability.  We suggest you use dowel sizes that are 3/4 inch in diameter for the main frame and 1/2 inch for the drying rods. 

Cut the dowels to the required lengths, sand them smoothly, and assemble using wood glue and screws for stability. Ensure the joints are secure and the frame can fold easily. Finish with a clear varnish to protect the wood. This rack not only enhances your home's functionality but also promotes sustainable living. 

Rain boots lined up on a doormat made of square wooden dowels tied together with rope

Wooden Dowel Door Mat 


Crafting a wooden dowel door mat is a convenient and cool DIY project that adds a touch of rustic charm to your home. This unique mat not only looks stylish but is also durable and easy to clean, making it a practical addition to any entrance. 

The doormat not only welcomes guests with style but also helps keep your home clean by effectively removing dirt from shoes. 

To construct, you'll need hardwood square dowels like white oak or maple for their durability and aesthetic appeal. Our suggestion is that you choose our dowel sizes that are ¾ inch in diameter

Cut the dowels to equal lengths, then sand and finish them for a smooth surface. Thread the dowels together with sturdy twine or rope, securing each end to prevent slipping.  

A woman sets her water glass on a side table supported by vertical wooden dowels

Side Table


A dowel side table is a stylish and functional addition to any room, providing a convenient surface for books, drinks, or décor. This DIY project combines simplicity and elegance, making it a valuable piece that complements your living space. 

To create this side table, we suggest the wood species cherry for its strength and beauty. Ideal dowel sizes are 1 inch in diameter for the legs and 1/2 inch for the frame.  

Cut the dowels to the desired lengths, sand them smoothly, and assemble the table using wood glue and screws for stability. Finish with a coat of varnish or paint to enhance the wood’s natural grain. 

a throw blanket hangs on a decorative ladder made up of wooden dowels

Decorative Ladder


A dowel decorative ladder is a unique and charming addition to any home, perfect for displaying blankets, towels, or décor items. Its sleek, minimalist design adds a touch of elegance while providing practical storage solutions. 


To assemble a decorative ladder, use hardwood species like birch or cherry for their durability and rich grain. We recommend dowel sizes that are 1 inch in diameter for the side rails and 3/4 inch for the rungs 

Cut the dowels to the desired lengths, sand them smoothly, and assemble using wood glue and screws for stability. Ensure the rungs are evenly spaced and secure. Finish with a coat of clear varnish or paint to enhance the wood's natural beauty. 

Find DIY Inspiration with Midwest Dowel 


Discovering the versatility and charm of wooden dowels can transform your DIY projects, adding both beauty and functionality to your home. From intricate knot puzzles and practical closet organizers to rustic door mats, stylish side tables, and comfortable chairs, dowels offer endless possibilities for creativity.  

With Midwest Dowel, you have access to high-quality wood products that ensure your projects are durable and aesthetically pleasing. Whether you're a seasoned crafter or a DIY novice, Midwest Dowel provides the inspiration and supplies you need to bring your ideas to life.  

Embrace the joy of crafting and elevate your home décor with the timeless appeal of wooden dowels. 

Ready to make your own arts and craft project? Click here to shop Midwest Dowel today!   
 
For more DIY wood dowel tips, follow Midwest Dowel on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and Pinterest
 
Happy with the Midwest Dowel difference? Leave us a five-star review here! 

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