How To Build a Log Holder

A cozy fire is the perfect way to wind down after a long day, but hauling logs inside to fuel it can be a chore. Building a log holder with wheels is an easy do-it-yourself (DIY) solution, adding style to your fireplace and creating a helpful place to store and transport wood. In the video above, we demonstrate how to make a copper pipe log holder. This project requires a pipe cutter, but you may already have the other tools and materials in your workshop if you’re handy.

Materials and Tools Needed To Build a Log Holder

Before embarking on this project, gather the following materials and tools. Remember to get everything ready beforehand so the project goes more smoothly.

Materials

• 1/4-by-1 1/4-inch carriage bolts
• 1/4-by-3/4-inch oak shelf edge trim
• 3/4-inch copper pipe
• 3/4-inch copper pipe fittings (elbows, tees, and couplings)
• 3/4-inch plywood
• 7/8-inch pan-head screws
• Casters
• Copper pipe straps
• Polyurethane glue
• Super glue
• Wood glue

Tools

• 1/16-inch pilot drill bit
• 1/4-inch drill bit
• Drill/driver
• Pipe cutter
• Tape measure
• Wrench

Cut List

• 3/4-inch copper-pipe crosspieces: four each @ 18 inches
• 3/4-inch copper-pipe base coupling pieces: six each @ 3 1/2 inches
• 3/4-inch copper-pipe uprights: four each @ 14 inches
• 3/4-inch copper-pipe top coupling pieces: four each @ 5 1/2 inches
• 3/4-inch copper-pipe top-center coupling pieces: two each @ 1 1/2 inches
• 3/4-inch plywood deck: one @ 12 by 19 3/4 inches
• 1/4-by-3/4-inch shelf-edge trim mitered to fit the plywood deck: four pieces

Preparing the Plywood Base

The first step in creating your log holder is to prepare the plywood base:

1. Cut the plywood to size. In our example, our cart is 12-by-19 3/4 inches.
2. Measure and cut the oak shelf edge trim to fit around the plywood. 
3. Alternate dabs of wood glue and super glue along the edge of the plywood.
4. Attach the oak trim to the plywood edges.

The super glue acts as a fast-setting clamp to hold the pieces in place while the wood glue dries.

Constructing the Copper Pipe Frame

The distinctive feature of this log holder is its copper pipe frame. Follow these steps to create both the base and top frames.

Cutting the Pipes

First, cut the copper pipes according to the following measurements:

• 3/4-inch copper-pipe crosspieces: four each @ 18 inches
• 3/4-inch copper-pipe base coupling pieces: six each @ 3 1/2 inches
• 3/4-inch copper-pipe uprights: four each @ 14 inches
• 3/4-inch copper-pipe top coupling pieces: four each @ 5 1/2 inches
• 3/4-inch copper-pipe top-center coupling pieces: two each @ 1 1/2 inches

Marking and Cutting: To mark each coupling length accurately, adjust a combination square to the desired measurement and use it as a guide along the copper tubing. Then slip a tube cutter onto the tubing, line up the blade with the mark, clamp the cutting wheel down, and spin the cutter in place, tightening as needed until the cut is complete. This method ensures clean, square cuts on every piece.

Fitting Layout Tip: Before cutting any couplings, lay out your tee fittings and elbow fittings against your work surface to determine exact coupling lengths. Measure the space between each fitting and add 1 inch to account for the stops, which are ½ inch deep on each fitting. Jot down the length of each coupling as you go, then use a combination square set to the coupling length to mark your copper tubing before cutting with a tube cutter.

Assembling the Frame

Now it’s time to assemble the frame:

1. Assemble the side pieces by gluing the couplings into the Ts using polyurethane glue.
2. Make the side pieces by gluing the couplings into the Ts with the polyurethane glue and capping the ends with the elbows pointing downward.
3. Connect the sides with the two crosspieces.
4. Repeat the process for the top frame, adjusting the measurements as needed.

Attaching the Base Frame to the Plywood Deck

With the base frame assembled, secure it to the plywood deck:

1. Center the base frame on the plywood deck.
2. Use copper pipe straps and screws to attach the frame to the deck.
3. Check that the frame is securely fastened and level on all sides.

Securing the Fittings

Secure the copper pipe fittings to add stability to your log holder:

1. Drill 1/16-inch pilot holes into the interior side of each fitting’s branches.
2. Use 7/8-inch pan-head screws to secure each branch to the pipes.
3. Double-check that all connections are tight and secure.

Adding Mobility with Casters

Add casters to make your log holder easily movable:

1. Choose a caster for each corner of the plywood deck.
2. Drill pilot holes through two opposite corners of each caster’s mounting plate and through the deck.
3. Secure each caster with 1/4-by-1 1/4-inch carriage bolts.
4. Tighten the bolts with a wrench to ensure the casters are firmly attached.

Assembling the Final Structure

With all components prepared, assemble your log holder:

1. Apply polyurethane glue to the open, upward-facing elbows of the bottom frame.
2. Insert the upright pieces into these elbows.
3. Attach the top frame by placing the downward-facing elbows onto the open ends of the uprights.
4. Allow the glue to dry completely before using the log holder.

Assembly Tip: Before gluing the log holder together, dry-fit all the components first to make sure they’ll assemble smoothly. Use 180-grit sandpaper to knock down any tight spots where joints don’t mesh easily. Once all the joints fit well, apply glue one joint at a time and work methodically through the assembly.

Pro Tip: Polyurethane glue is extremely strong, but be aware that it can bubble up and get messy as it cures. Don’t worry too much about squeeze-out on this project — once dried, the excess can be trimmed away with a sharp chisel or utility knife. The glue’s expansion actually helps fill small gaps in the elbow joints, creating an even tighter bond.

Building a Log Holder: Finishing Touches

Follow these steps to complete your log holder project:

1. Clean any excess glue from the copper pipes and fittings.
2. Consider applying a clear coat to the copper to preserve its shine and prevent tarnishing.
3. Test the casters to make sure your holder moves smoothly.

Maintenance Tips

Here are some best practices to keep your log holder in top condition:

• Regularly clean the copper pipes with a soft cloth to maintain their luster.
• Check and tighten any loose fittings or bolts periodically.
• Keep the casters clean and well-lubricated for smooth movement.
• Inspect the plywood base for any signs of wear and replace if necessary.

Storage Tip: When stacking logs in your holder, choose well-seasoned or kiln-dried hardwood for insect-free logs that will burn efficiently. Leave enough room between logs for air to circulate, which prevents mold. Bring in only as much wood as you need for your next fire—wood stored indoors can harbor insects that may become active in the warmth of the house.