Deluxe Cooler

Bottle Opener Hack

This project creates the perfect home for storing a cooler and other accessories to make those outdoor gatherings happen a little more frequently.

The cooler can accommodate up to a 48-quart cooler and features shelving next to the cooler for storing other essentials. There is a towel rack plus a wine rack inside the right door for easy storage of bottles. The doors call for magnetic closures to protect the contents, and you can slide in the cooler from the front, which is ergonomically preferred to dropping in a heavy cooler from above.

Crediting its simple construction and clean lines, this project will enhance any outdoor space and provide fun and function.

After the main structure is assembled, the HRS interior storage is constructed, followed by attaching cladding and creating the lid. Once it has been sanded and coated, it will be ready to be loaded up with a cooler and tools.

Before you get started, please read our info on safety, fasteners and building tips.

Before building, please consult our Terms of Use.

Download a Free
Deluxe Cooler Plan

COST:

TIME: 6 Hrs

SKILL:

Materials

  • (8) 1 x 4 x 8' YellaWood® brand pressure treated pine
  • (5) 2 x 2 x 10' YellaWood® brand pressure
  • (11) 1 x 6 x 10' YellaWood® brand pressure treated pine
  • (1) 2 x 4 x 10' YellaWood® brand pressure treated pine
  • 1 1/4" wood screws + appropriate bit
  • 1 5/8" wood screws + appropriate bit
  • 2" wood screws + appropriate bit
  • 2 1/2" wood screws + appropriate bit
  • 3" wood screws + appropriate bit
  • 1" nails
  • (4) 3" hinges (galvanized if possible)
  • (2) 4" handles (stainless steel if possible)
  • (2) Cabinetry/door magnetic closures
  • Preferred Wood finish
  • YellaWood Protector® Stain and Sealer

Tools

  • Pencil
  • Measuring tape
  • Miter saw (or chop saw)
  • Table saw
  • Jig saw
  • Drill/driver
  • Clamps (two at least 5' long)
  • Combination countersink bit (with 3" long 18" bit)
  • Nail gun
  • 1" Forstner bit
  • Carpenter square
  • Waterproof wood glue
  • Damp cloth
  • Radial sander

Cut List

  • See plans for diagrams of cuts.
  • All measurements are approximate.
  • Cut stock in the sequence of steps because many dimensions are directly measured and will vary based on actual stock and construction.

Bottle Opener Hack

Hack Materials

  • (1) 1 x 4 x 8' YellaWood® brand pressure treated pine
  • 1 1/4" wood screws + appropriate bit
  • Epoxy
  • (6) 1/2" x 1/4" thick magnets
  • (1) Weatherproof bottle opener
  • Preferred wood finish

Hack Tools

  • Pencil
  • Measuring tape
  • Miter saw (or chop saw)
  • 1/2" Forstner bit
  • Drill/driver
  • Radial sander (or sanding block)
  • Rag