Mass production
If you want to build a bunch, here are some labor-saving tips.
Cut uniform parts with a stop block
Clamp a block to your fence so you can cut parts to precisely the same length without measuring and marking.
Make a carriage jig
Mark the angle cut on one of the end parts (A) and set it on a
10 x 14-in. scrap. Then add cleats to hold the end in position.
Cut the angles
Set the table saw fence at 10 in. and slide the carriage against it to cut the angled ends. After the first angle is cut, flip the board and cut the other side. CAUTION: Guard removed for photo. Use yours!
Soak off labels
Labels on steel pipe are tough to remove. To make it easier, we picked up an aluminum foil roasting pan ($5 at home centers) and soaked the pipes in mineral spirits overnight.
Drill handle holes
Clamp the carriage to a drill press table so you can set each end in place and bore the handle hole. We used a 3/4-in. Forstner bit, which is about right for 3/8-in. black pipe.
Line ‘em up and spray ‘em
We finished our bottle caddies with two coats of spray varnish. After the first coat, we lightly sanded with a fine sanding sponge. Then we added the handles and sprayed again. When the finish was completely dry, we attached an oldstyle metal bottle opener to one side of the caddy.