#Rookie Moms – Build your toddler a play kitchen for less than $50

Wanna just buy one outright? I don t blame you, I got tired just writing about all these awesome projects. Two super cute (gender-neutral) play kitchens on amazon are Melissa Doug s corner kitchen (more compact) and Kid Craft red retro (more deluxe). I also encourage you to be on the hunt in your local Craig s List for a complete kitchen set. We scored a fab train table that way.

Ok with the slacker permission out of the way, let s dig in!

I love a kid-sized kitchen and the creative ways that my children can stay focused with their pretend desserts and imaginary pasta dishes (while I make a real dinner they may or may not even taste).  I have been soooo close to purchasing a miniature kitchen for my boys the past couple years, but something always stops me. Usually price. And the fact that they have five-days a week access to pretend stoves-and-sinks at preschool.

Here are a few DIY play kitchens as inspiration for you as you plan the big gift under your toddler s tree:

From Ohdeedoh, start from Ikea components

I spotted this DIY play kitchen on Ohdeedoh and hoped I would make it myself; it was created for less than $50 using all Ikea components. Brilliant. I already have and love the dishware from Green Toys made from entirely recycled milk bottles obtained in California.

IKEA shopping list:

$3.50 on Amazon)

Full instructions and sketch on Apartment Therapy Ohdeedoh

From Giggleberry, upcycle a retired TV hutch

I first saw this child s kitchen on babycenter and my jaw fell wide open. A set of handy grandparents made this kitchen for Milla using an old TV unit (found on Craigs List for $30) as a foundation. Stunning. I applaud their imagination and perseverance on this one. See the full instructions and pictures on giggleberry .

From Rambling Renovations, total DIY