I'm planning to create a sturdy coat rack using 1/2 inch black pipe, measuring 24 inches wide and around 66 to 69 inches tall. I need it to hold three heavy coats in a space that's limited to a 6-foot height. I'm trying to figure out the right fittings and lengths of pipe to make this work. I talked to a plumbing guy at Home Depot, but he seemed confused and just mentioned they sell them online for almost $200, which is a bit steep! Any guidance on how to measure and select the right pieces would be greatly appreciated!
1 Answer
I’ve built a desk with black iron pipe, so I can share some tips! First, the pipes come oily and covered in mill scale, which can transfer to anything, so you'll want to clean them with acetone and a scotch pad or steel wool. If not cleaned, they'll rust quickly.
After cleaning, you should paint the pipes soon after. I used Rust-O-Leum hammered black paint, which gives a nice textured finish. Just go with several thin layers and allow for drying time in between.
Also, remember the fittings aren’t exactly precise, so factor in some margin for error when designing your rack. And if you're looking for specific fittings, check online – there are more options available than what’s in-store. You can even have them shipped to the store for free, which is super convenient.
I’d suggest this process: sketch a design, order your materials, do a dry fit, take it apart to clean it, then assemble and paint. It helps to minimize the time between cleaning and painting to avoid rust! Also, if you can share a sketch or pic of what you're envisioning, I’d be happy to help further!
Thanks for the tips! I'll send over a pic of my idea soon. It's pretty basic, but your advice is really helpful!