Here we go again with another kids play structure to add to your list. How about a diy play barn for all those farm animals?
A DIY tutorial to build a kids play barn. Make this toy barn with 4 stalls. It’s great for open access play with animals and farm machinery.
Making childhood dreams come true one wood project at a time. And naturally wishing I had this toy barn when I was a kid! It’s Week 5 of the 2021 Handbuilt Holiday series and Ana White and I are sharing this beautiful play barn structure.
Play Barn
The wood lover in me can’t help gushing over the architectural lines and design of this toy barn. Ana came up with this structure and I truly wish it was life size in my backyard. Of course the kids will want to put all the animals in the barn but I love all the wood posts and beams.
There’s plenty of space for everyone:
Watch out tractor coming through with gifts for everyone!
Barn with Stalls
This play barn has four open stalls with fencing to keep the animals secure. And a large open space in the center for farm machinery.
Play Barn Plans
So you want to build this? Be sure to scroll down for tips and photos of this build process before you start. And most importantly Ana has the plans for you here.
Tip #1: When making the 6 frame pieces cut yourself 2 story sticks. Keep your saw at the 25 degree angle and cut one piece at 1 3/4″ long and one piece at 1/2″ long. You will use these story sticks both here and when attaching the roof pieces. They are invaluable and will create the exact same spacing for all 6 members in addition to not having to use a measuring tape.
Above the roof pieces have been added and now these pieces look like giraffes!
Tip #2: To secure the roof pieces together at the center I used my stapler, stapling on both sides for a tight connection.
Tip #3: I highly suggest securing the frame pieces to the bottom plywood board from underneath using 1 1/4″ wood screws up into the 1×2 vertical pieces. This ensures the frame is solid and no child will bend the structure off the base.
Tip #4: To create a faux metal roof effect I ripped 1/4″ strips and secured to the roof. You can use 23 gauge brad nails where possible otherwise wood glue. Then paint as desired.
Thanks for joining me for this play barn project. Please leave any questions in the comments below and be sure to follow me on social media for sneak peeks, tools and project inspiration:
I cut my angles on the 2” side instead of the 1” side by mistake. I cut enough for two barns. Any suggestions?
Thank you.
Hi Diana, that’s a tough one I’m sorry. There’s not really a remedy unless you’re will to turn everything on it’s side (for a super thick roof) but your roof pieces won’t match up with the vertical supports (unless you cut those on the thicker side too? It’s worth a try, you might like the new shape 🙂
Thank you for the input! I am not going to let this setback stop me. I love the design of this barn and I am going to get it right.
Thanks for the inspiration! What is your roof paint color? Just finished building this for my grandsons. Ready to paint the roof.
Hi Jan, I used a couple bits of leftover paints mixed together to get this dark green color. I’m sorry I don’t have an official color name. Good luck with your barn!
Good Evening,
Just wanted to say thank you for the detailed Barn drawings, they were very easy to follow. To allow for larger animals and two additional stalls. , I increased the height by 2 inches and the original foot print to 20”X24” to allow for the two additional stalls. My granddaughter waisted no time placing her animal’s throughout the barn.
Thank you again for a great project.
Merry Christmas