Are you short on cash but long for a new foot rest to use with your lawn chair? If so, you may want to consider creating one out of PVC pipe. I learned how to create one from my father years ago. Based on that experience, I can tell you that it is not that difficult of a task to complete. Here’s how to do it:
Supplies Needed
In order to complete this project, you will need 8 pieces of PVC pipe (1.5 inches x 22 inches), 8 PVC elbows (90 degree angle), a hacksaw, a tape measure and a container of PVC pipe adhesive. You’ll also need an emery cloth (medium), a bag of play sand, a funnel, a piece of heavy canvas tarp with grommet-reinforced holes and a roll of vinyl lacing material.
Assemble the Frame
Begin by laying out all of your pieces of pipe and elbows. You will need to cut the pipe into six sections that are 15 inch long pieces and two sections that are 20 feet long. They will be used to create the base of the foot rest.
Next, conduct a dry run by using the pipes and elbows to create a shape that resembles a breakfast tray. The best way to do that is to use three sections of 15 feet long pipe and four elbows to create a U-shape. Then insert the two 20 foot long sections into the elbows located at the top of the U-shape.
Proceed by using the remaining three sections of pipe and four elbows to create a second U-shape. Afterward, attach the second U-shape to the other ends of the 20 foot long pipes. At this point, you should have the framework of your foot rest complete. If you don’t like how it looks, take the pipes back apart and try again.
When you are happy with the way that your foot rest frame looks, go ahead and disassemble it. Continue by using the emery cloth to lightly roughen up each end of pipe. Then wipe away any residual dust. Doing so will help to give the pipe adhesive something to hold onto. Once that’s done, reassemble both U-shapes using the pipe adhesive. Just make sure that you push the pipes into the elbows until they seat properly. Otherwise, it will reduce the structural integrity of your foot rest.
Add the Sand
After the pipe adhesive dries, hold the U-shapes upright and pour play sand into each one. The play sand will help to give the foot rest extra weight and stability. Then attach the U-shaped pieces to the 20 inch long stretches of pipe with the pipe adhesive. Afterward, allow the adhesive to dry before continuing.
Add the Canvas
Proceed by laying your canvas tarp over top of the 20 inch long stretch of pipe. Then lace the heavy cord through the grommets located on each side of the tarp. Afterward, pull the cord tight and tie the ends. At this point, your outdoor foot rest is complete.
Source: Personal Experience
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