Looking for a stylish and affordable way to display your handmade quilts? This DIY quilt ladder is the perfect solution. It’s budget-friendly, beginner-friendly, and makes a beautiful statement piece in any sewing room, craft space, or living area. Best of all, it costs less than $30 to make.
Watch the video here
If you’ve been searching for a wooden quilt ladder online, you’ve probably noticed the steep price tags—many are well over $100. Instead, build your own rustic quilt ladder with just a few basic tools and supplies from your local hardware store.
Follow this step-by-step guide to create your own wooden quilt display ladder.
Instructions:
1. Cut your boards:
Trim each 2x4 to 90 inches in length. On one end of each board, cut a 10-degree angle so the ladder will lean against the wall.
2. Cut the dowels:
Cut each dowel rod down to 18 inches. These will become the rungs of your ladder.
3. Mark your drill holes:
On the inside edge of each 2x4, measure and mark the following points starting from the top:
Be sure to double-check that the marks line up exactly on both boards.
4. Drill the holes:
Using a 1-inch drill bit, drill holes at each marked point. Do not drill all the way through the wood—only go deep enough for the dowel rods to sit snugly inside.
5. Sand all pieces:
Sand all surfaces of the 2x4s and the dowel rod ends to remove rough edges or splinters.
6. Assemble the ladder:
Lay one 2x4 flat with the holes facing up. Insert the dowel rods into each hole. Use a rubber mallet and scrap wood if needed to tap them in firmly.
Then, position the second 2x4 on top, aligning it with the dowels. Tap gently until all dowels are securely in place.
7. Stain and finish:
Apply your favorite wood stain for a farmhouse or rustic look. Let the ladder dry completely before displaying your quilts.
Here's a handy checklist to take with you to the hardware store:
✅ (2) 2x4 wood boards (8 ft long)
✅ (3) 1" diameter wooden dowel rods (4 ft long)
✅ Wood stain
✅ Sandpaper (medium + fine grit)
✅ 1" drill bit
✅ Rubber mallet
✅ Saw
✅ Tape measure
✅ Pencil
✅ Optional: scrap wood block for tapping dowels into place
Thank you for sharing this. I have been wanting a quilt ladder for so long & all the ones I really liked were very pricey & I just couldn’t justify spending that much. I can’t wait to try making one for our home or maybe one for my sewing space & one to have in our family room. 💕
Thank you
Thank you so much for this tutorial. This is probably the nicest quilt ladder that I’ve seen!
Jeanne
July 24, 2025
What is your wall paint color?
Thanks for the detailed ladder instructions.