
How to Build a Kids Mud Kitchen
Ready to turn your garden into a creative outdoor play space? This Kids Mud Kitchen project is the perfect weekend build - and if you're well-prepared, you could even complete it in a single afternoon. Designed with little chefs in mind and built to last, it's a fun, family-friendly project.
Ready to turn your garden into a creative outdoor play space? This Kids Mud Kitchen project is the perfect weekend build - and if you're well-prepared, you could even complete it in a single afternoon. Designed with little chefs in mind and built to last, it's a fun, family-friendly project.
Made from just a few standard timber boards and powered by Evolution tools, this project is ideal for beginner DIYers who want to create something playful and super rewarding.
Watch the video below for a detailed step-by-step guide with Joe Whitaker. There are some notes and diagrams below for extra help.
🧰 Tools & Materials
Tools You'll Need:
- Mitre saw
- Drill/driver
- Jigsaw
- Tape measure & pencil
- Sander or sandpaper (optional)
- Protective gear (goggles, gloves, dust mask)
Materials List:
- 6 x 2.4m lengths of 89mm x 38mm CLS timber
- Decking board
- Exterior wood screws
- Exterior wood glue (optional)
- Drawer knobs (for "stove knobs")
- Hooks (to hang "utensils")
- A plastic tub or tray (to use as a "sink")
- Optional: Exterior wood stain or paint (child-safe)
💡 Full cutting list and dimension diagrams are available below to guide every step
Step-by-Step Build Guide
1. Prepare & Cut Your Timber
Cut all pieces to size using your mitre saw.
Frame pieces, slats, uprights, and backboard components are all labelled in the cutting plan below.
2. Assemble the Frame
Start by building the side frames using your pre-cut lengths. Secure with screws and glue for strength.
3. Secure the sides together
Attach the two side assemblies together with horizontal slats at the front and back you'll have a cross section at the top and bottom.
4. Cut Out Sink Area & Fit the Worktop Slats
Add some cross supports for the worktop slats to sit on and to support the washing up bowl. Then use a jigsaw to cut a hole in the worktop slats that fits your washing up bowl. Remember to test-fit the plastic tub and don't cut the hole too small as you want the tub's rim to overhang so it doesn't fall through the hole.
5. Build the Backboard
Measure the back frame and then cut 3 horizontal planks from the decking boards. Attach the planks to the back frame to form the backboard. This is great for adding hooks to hang utensils.
6. Add Finishing Touches & Decorative Touches
- Add the drawer knobs: Screw the knobs to the front of the mud kitchen to mimic oven knobs
- Add hooks: Screw the hooks to the splash back for somewhere to hang utensils or cups
- Smooth the surfaces (optional): Sand down any rough patches or sharp edges with a sander or sanding block
- Protect and personalise (optional): Finish with a weatherproof, child-safe paint or wood stain. Choose bright colours or even add names and fun stencils to make it one-of-a-kind.
- Extras (optional): Add a shelf or planter on the lower level for extra fun
Final Thoughts
This DIY Kids Mud Kitchen is more than just a fun project - it's a way to create lasting memories and give children a space to explore, imagine and play outdoors. With just a few tools, some standard timber and a free afternoon, you can build something that's both practical and playful. So fire up your Evolution tools, grab your plans and get building!