Here are the tools and materials you'll need to build your own home bar, as well as all of the components you'll need to include. This is a great weekend DIY project for woodworkers of all experience and skill levels!

Required Tools and Materials

Clamps
Miter saw
Air compressor
Air hose
Brad nail gun
Cordless drill
Caulk gun
Level
Framing square
Jigsaw
Orbital sander
Safety glasses
Wood glue

Bar molding
3/4-in. plywood
Construction adhesive
Drywall screws
Metal drip tray
Foam insulation
Hardwood trim
Beer tap kit
2 x 4s
Metal, stone or wood base

Anatomy of a Bar

A. Standard bar height is 42 in. Bar stools will be easier to find if you stick with that height.

B. The overhang should be at least 8 in., but when it comes to knee room, more is better.

C. Most bar stools are 30 in. tall—perfect for standard bar height. But watch out: Some stools are several inches taller or shorter.

D. The bar top should be 16 to 20 in. wide, including the molding; more than that is a waste of space.

E. Bar molding serves three critical purposes:
It keeps spilled drinks from dribbling off the bar and onto your lap.
It provides a comfy armrest and lets you properly slouch over your beer.
Most important, it makes your home bar look more official.
F. The drink rail is where drinks get poured on a traditional bar. It's a nice feature, but not a necessity for a home bar.

G. A drip lip—simply a thin strip of protruding wood—keeps spills from running off the bar top.

H. A lower counter is the perfect place to slice lemons, set bottles or install a bar sink. But it adds complexity to the project and eats up a lot of space, so home bar builders often skip it.

J. The minimum stool spacing is 2 ft. of bar per seat. That will feel crowded to big guys, so go to 30 in. if you can.

K. The foot rail should be 7 to 9 in. off the floor. Metal railing (usually brass) is expensive ($200 for an 8-ft. run), so many home bars have a simple ledge instead.

What do you think of this guide to building your own home bar? Are there any tips or suggestions you'd add? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!

Article Source: Family Handyman