How to recycle a crib into a dog crate

Step 1

Cut the legs

Use a circular saw to cut the legs down to about two inches tall.

Step 2

Add blocking mechanisms

Put a pull stud in the crib post and in the section of the panel you want to be the opening. Put the bolt part into the bottom rail of the panel. Repeat on the other side.

Step 3

Remove the screws

Remove the screws that hold the opening panel to the posts. This will allow you to open the panel. We had to use an allen key to remove ours.

Stage 4

Close the draft screws

When the bolts are removed, secure the panel to the posts with the draw bolts.

Step 5

Add handle

Measure the center point on the bottom rail of the opening panel. Center the drawer and pull from that center point, then mark where to pre-drill. Drill the holes for the drawer pull screws. (We had to hold the panel up to avoid hitting the mattress platform.) Attach the drawer handle with the screws.

Step 6

Create and attach the top piece

Cut 1/2” of birch plywood to the exact size of the top of the crib. Stain or paint if desired. When the finish is dry, lay the plywood in the cradle at all four corners. Pre-drill the plywood then insert the screws.

Step 7

Add mattress

Make the crate comfortable with a mattress and your pet's favorite toys.