Shaker-Style Peg Rail

Article 163: Shaker-Style Peg Rail

By: A Woodworker Who Respects Utility in Design

The Shakers prized function and simplicity. Their peg rails lined entire rooms for hanging everything from hats to chairs. This project is easy, functional, and perfect for any space.

Materials

• 1 board of cherry or pine: ¾" × 3½" × desired length (4 ft. recommended)

• 6–8 wooden pegs (⅝" dowel or turned)

• Wood glue

• Screws for wall mounting

Tools Required

• Drill with ⅝" bit

• Chisels (optional for flat pegs)

• Plane or sandpaper

• Router (chamfer edges)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Board

   • Plane or sand smooth.

   • Chamfer the top and bottom edges.

2. Layout Peg Spacing

   • Mark every 6–8" centered on the board.

3. Drill Peg Holes

   • Use a ⅝" bit, drill at 90°, ¾" deep.

4. Insert Pegs

   • Apply glue, tap in flush.

5. Mount to Wall

   • Countersink holes and screw into studs.

Sketch – Peg Rail Side View

   ┌──────────────────────────────┐
   │    o     o     o     o     o│  ← Pegs
   └──────────────────────────────┘