Easy DIY: How to Build a Portable Cooler Stand

Entertain in style with Western Red Cedar

The portable Western Red Cedar deck bar and cooler stand will be as much a conversation piece as a practical staple. Easy to pull off, but still worthy of bragging rights, this Western Red Cedar beauty involves just four simple steps and voila, you’re ready to down a few cool ones without having to step off the patio.

The build starts with a medium-sized cooler (the size of the cooler determines the overall scale of the bar), and it has a section for ice, with drainage, in the center. On the opposite side of cooler, is a bar where you can line up shots, slices of fresh lime or whip up cocktails.

DESIGNED FOR MAXIMUM EASE

Western Red Cedar is ideal for outdoor projects because it is naturally resistant to rot, decay and insects. Plus, it’s easy to work with, says Jim West from Westworks Construction, who walks viewers through the build process.

“It’s also very light weight, which helps in a project like this,” notes West. “It’s very stable and it’s absolutely gorgeous.”

Allow Western Red Cedar to weather naturally

West chose to let his Knotty Western Red Cedar bar weather naturally, allowing it to turn into a beautiful silver patina. But, as Western Red Cedar is pitch and resin-free, it holds a wide variety of finishes beautifully – so feel free to add a stain to your project if you wish.

This highly functional, outdoor project also lends itself to accessorization, West says, suggesting adding casters that enable you to wheel it down to the beach, or throw a beer opener or cap catcher on the side. Whatever you chose to do with it, this portable cooler stand is sure to make summer a whole lot cooler.

To make your own portable cooler stand, download these free step-by-step directions and plans.