DIY Coat Rack with Glass Knobs: A Distressed Farmhouse Look

Updated at: 27/05/2025

Transform your entryway or mudroom with this charming DIY coat rack, boasting a rustic distressed farmhouse aesthetic and finished with elegant glass knobs. This project is perfect for adding a touch of personalized style to your home without breaking the bank. Forget bland, mass-produced options; create a unique piece that perfectly reflects your taste and complements your existing décor. The weathered wood and glistening glass knobs create a beautiful juxtaposition, blending the warmth of farmhouse style with a hint of modern sophistication. This project requires minimal tools and readily available materials, making it ideal for DIY enthusiasts of all skill levels.

We'll guide you through each step, from choosing the perfect wood and distressing it to the satisfying placement of the elegant glass knobs. Ready to add a touch of rustic elegance to your home? Let's get started with our comprehensive step-by-step guide to building your very own distressed farmhouse coat rack!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Table saw
  • Drill press (or handheld drill)
  • Forstner bit
  • Drill bits
  • Router
  • Router bit
  • Sandpaper/Sander
  • Wood glue
  • Brad nails
  • Chisel
  • Stain
  • Dry brush
  • White paint
  • Shellac clear coat
  • Keyhole brackets
  • Epoxy
  • Painter's tape
  • Wet wipe
Safety Guidelines
  • Always wear safety glasses when using power tools like saws and drills. Wood dust can also irritate eyes.
  • Ensure the wall anchors you choose are appropriate for your wall type (drywall, plaster, etc.) to prevent the coat rack from falling.
  • Handle glass knobs with care to avoid breakage. Wear gloves if necessary.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Wood

    • Cut a 1x6 to 30 inches and another piece to 33 inches. Rip the 33-inch piece into two smaller pieces (1 1/4 inches and 1 3/4 inches)

  2. Create the Molding

    • Layer the smaller pieces on top of the 30-inch 1x6 to create a molding effect. Make a line on the smaller piece 3-4 inches from the ends for added layering.
    Create molding: Layer the smaller pieces on top of the 30-inch 1x6 to create a molding effect. Make a line on the smaller piece 3-4 inches from the ends for added layering.
    Create the Molding

  3. Sand and Smooth

    • Sand the wood pieces smooth.
    Sand the wood pieces smooth.
    Sand and Smooth

  4. Drill Knob Holes

    • Mark five lines for the knob placement (5 inches apart) and drill pilot holes with Forstner bit to match the bolt depth. Then drill all the way through using a bit matching the bolt size.
    Mark and drill holes for knobs: Mark five lines for the knob placement (5 inches apart) and drill pilot holes with Forstner bit to match the bolt depth. Then drill all the way through using a bit matching the bolt size.
    Drill Knob Holes

  5. Cut Keyhole Slots

    • Mark the keyhole slot positions and use a router to carve out the slots, slightly smaller than the brackets, then adjust with a chisel if needed. Also, rout a small hole in the center for screw placement.
    Create keyhole slots for hanging: Mark the keyhole slot positions and use a router to carve out the slots, slightly smaller than the brackets, then adjust with a chisel if needed. Also, rout a small hole in the center for screw placement.
    Cut Keyhole Slots

  6. Assemble the Coat Rack

    • Attach the molding pieces to the 1x6 using wood glue and brad nails.
    Assemble the molding: Attach the molding pieces to the 1x6 using wood glue and brad nails.
    Assemble the Coat Rack

  7. Distress and Stain

    • Apply stain as a base coat, then dry brush white paint onto the wood for a distressed look.
    Apply stain and distress: Apply stain as a base coat, then dry brush white paint onto the wood for a distressed look.
    Distress and Stain

  8. Install the Knobs

    • Screw in most of the knobs using the bolts. For knobs without suitable screw holes, use epoxy to secure them in place.
    Attach the knobs: Screw in most of the knobs using the bolts. For knobs without suitable screw holes, use epoxy to secure them in place.
    Install the Knobs

  9. Seal and Finish

    • Apply a couple of coats of shellac clear coat to seal the coat rack.
    Seal with clear coat: Apply a couple of coats of shellac clear coat to seal the coat rack.
    Seal and Finish

Read more: DIY Upcycled Bed Frame: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • The measurements for the molding pieces don't have to be precise; adjust to your preference.
  • Using a dry brush and lightly dipping it into paint creates an effective distressing effect.
  • For epoxy application, use painter's tape to mask the holes and a wet wipe to prevent spillover.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Unevenly Spaced Knobs

Reason: Measuring and marking the knob placement inaccurately leads to a visually unappealing, unprofessional finish.
Solution: Use a ruler and level to precisely measure and mark the knob positions before drilling.

2. Incorrect Drill Bit Size

Reason: Using a drill bit too small will cause the knobs to fit too tightly, and one that's too large will lead to wobbly knobs and potential damage to the wood.
Solution: Use a drill bit that's slightly smaller than the diameter of the knob's stem to ensure a snug and secure fit.

3. Insufficient Distressing

Reason: Not adequately distressing the wood results in a coat rack that doesn't achieve the desired farmhouse aesthetic.
Solution: Use sandpaper and various distressing techniques (like dry brushing paint) to achieve a convincingly worn look.

FAQs

What type of wood is best for this project?
Pine, fir, or reclaimed wood work well. Pine and fir are affordable and easy to work with, while reclaimed wood adds extra character and authenticity to the distressed farmhouse look.
How do I achieve the distressed look?
You can distress the wood using sandpaper, a wire brush, or a combination of both. Focus on the edges and corners for a more realistic aged appearance. Consider using a wood stain to enhance the distressed look.
What kind of glass knobs should I use?
Choose knobs that complement your desired farmhouse style. Glass knobs in clear, milk glass, or even slightly tinted options will work beautifully. Consider the size and shape – smaller knobs are often more suitable for a coat rack.