DIY Van Garage Storage: Slim Folding Chair Rack

Updated at: 09/05/2025

Converting a van into a comfortable and functional living space often presents a significant storage challenge. Every inch counts, and maximizing vertical space is crucial for efficient organization. One common struggle is finding a practical and space-saving solution for storing chairs, which can be bulky and cumbersome. This is where a DIY slim folding chair rack comes in, offering a clever and customisable way to keep your seating neatly tucked away without sacrificing precious floor space. A well-designed rack can dramatically improve your van's organization, making it easier to access your chairs while simultaneously keeping your living area clutter-free.

This guide will walk you through building your own slim folding chair rack, perfect for maximizing space in your van garage. We'll cover everything from material selection and measurements to assembly and installation, equipping you with the skills and knowledge to create a bespoke storage solution tailored precisely to your needs. Let's get started with the step-by-step instructions.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • 16 ft piece of 1/8 in 6061 T6 aluminum angle with 1 1/2 in flanges
  • Aluminum blind rivets
  • Adjustable rivet spacer
  • Drill
  • Drill bit (oversized for deburring)
  • C-clamps
  • Car jack
  • 1/4 inch bolts
  • Washers
  • Lock washers
  • Nuts
  • Milescraft Drill 90 Plus (optional)
Safety Guidelines
  • Ensure all screws and fasteners are securely tightened to prevent collapse while driving. Regularly check for looseness.
  • Use strong, appropriately sized materials for the rack's construction. Avoid using weak or damaged wood.
  • Properly secure the rack to the van's interior structure, using existing mounting points whenever possible. Avoid relying solely on adhesive.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cut Aluminum Angles

    • Cut the aluminum angle into eight 2ft long pieces.
    Cut the aluminum angle into eight 2ft long pieces.
    Cut Aluminum Angles

  2. Assemble Support Frame

    • Assemble the aluminum angle pieces using aluminum blind rivets and an adjustable rivet spacer for precise spacing.
    • Create two center supports by joining two pieces to save space.
    • Mark, drill, and rivet the four support pieces together.
    Mark, drill, and rivet the four support pieces together.Mark, drill, and rivet the four support pieces together.Mark, drill, and rivet the four support pieces together.
    Assemble Support Frame

  3. Prepare for Mounting

    • Mark, punch, and drill bolt holes for attaching to the van bed frame.

  4. Position and Secure Supports

    • Temporarily hold the supports in place using C-clamps, checking alignment and fit.
    • Use a car jack to support the center while precisely positioning.
    Use a car jack to support the center while precisely positioning.
    Position and Secure Supports

  5. Install Support Rails

    • Install the support rails using bolts, washers, lock washers, and nuts.

Read more: Portable Camping Chair & Table Review: Setup & Usage

Tips

  • Use an adjustable rivet spacer for consistent rivet spacing.
  • Use an oversized drill bit to deburr surfaces for tight mating.
  • Use a car jack to hold and position the center support.
  • A right-angle drill can be helpful for hard-to-reach areas.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Insufficient Mounting Strength

Reason: Using weak screws or mounting the rack to flimsy van walls can lead to collapse under weight.
Solution: Use heavy-duty screws, appropriate wall anchors, and reinforce the mounting area with additional supports if necessary.

2. Incorrect Folding Chair Measurement

Reason: Failing to accurately measure the folded chairs before building the rack results in poor fit or inability to store chairs.
Solution: Carefully measure your folded chairs' dimensions and adjust the rack's design accordingly.

3. Neglecting Safety Features

Reason: Leaving sharp edges or neglecting to secure the rack properly can cause injury or damage.
Solution: Sand down any sharp edges, secure the rack firmly, and ensure it is stable and won't shift during transit.

FAQs

What type of wood is best for building a slim folding chair rack?
Lightweight yet sturdy woods like pine or plywood are ideal. Pine is readily available and relatively inexpensive, while plywood offers greater stability and resistance to warping. Consider using thinner plywood (e.g., 1/2 inch) to maximize space-saving.
Efficient van storage is crucial for maximizing space, especially when you're carrying bulky items like camping chairs. If you're looking to upgrade your outdoor seating, our recent guide on eco-friendly portable seating offers some excellent options. Once you've selected your perfect chairs, this project will help you store them neatly and securely in your van's garage. This slim folding chair rack is designed to keep your chairs organized and readily accessible, preventing them from becoming a jumbled mess during your travels.