A Step-by-Step Tutorial for a DIY Baby Gate

PDF download Download Article
Easily block off a doorway or stairway with this guide
PDF download Download Article

Baby-proofing your home is an essential step to keeping your little one safe. To keep your baby from getting into rooms they shouldn't or to block access to a stairwell, a baby gate is the perfect solution. We're here to walk you through how to build a baby gate that’s both safe and effective. Keep reading for step-by-step instructions on making a DIY baby gate for any space.

Part 1
Part 1 of 3:

Cutting the Wood

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/5d\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-1.jpg\/v4-460px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/5d\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-1.jpg\/v4-728px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Cut 6 1 in × 3 in (2.5 cm × 7.6 cm) boards to 30 in (76 cm) long for a gate with a 35.5 in (90 cm) opening. You should end up with 15 30 in (76 cm) long 1 in × 3 in (2.5 cm × 7.6 cm) boards. [1] Adjust the number and lengths of your boards to fit your doorway or stairwell opening as needed.
    • The opening should be 1.5 in (3.8 cm) wider than the gate itself to allow room for the hinges and for the gate to swing open. [2]
    • If you're attaching wall mounts to either side of the gate, measure the opening after installing them. [3]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/93\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/93\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-2.jpg\/v4-728px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Measure the top and bottom horizontal frames first and cut a 1 in × 4 in (2.5 cm × 10.2 cm) board to 37.5 in (95 cm) long. Repeat the process on another 1 in × 4 in (2.5 cm × 10.2 cm) board for the 2 vertical frameboard pieces so they fit flush with the horizontal boards at a 90-degree angle to frame the gate without overlapping. [4]
    • Lay out your boards during the cutting process, so you get a better idea of the final fit. Arrange the frame onto a flat surface and line the boards up next to each other.
    Advertisement
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/b\/bc\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-3.jpg\/v4-460px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/b\/bc\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-3.jpg\/v4-728px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Place the remaining 1 in × 3 in (2.5 cm × 7.6 cm) boards in an “x” shape over the gate and mark where the angled cuts need to be made. Leave one arm of the “x” intact and cut the other arm into two pieces to fit. [5]
    • Purchase some extra 1 in × 3 in (2.5 cm × 7.6 cm) boards so you don’t have to head back to the store if you make a mistake.
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f6\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-4.jpg\/v4-460px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f6\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-4.jpg\/v4-728px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Measure a 1 in × 3 in (2.5 cm × 7.6 cm) board and cut it to 37.5 in (95 cm) long. Set it aside. [6]
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9f\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9f\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-5.jpg\/v4-728px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Measure and cut a 2 in × 4 in (5.1 cm × 10.2 cm) board into 2 equal pieces. [7]
    • The wall mounts are optional and can be affixed to either side of the gate in a doorway on a wall, or to the banister of a staircase. [8]
    6. Advertisement
Part 2
Part 2 of 3:

Assembling the Gate

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/21\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-6.jpg\/v4-460px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/21\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-6.jpg\/v4-728px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Lay out the frame on a flat surface and line up the boards directly next to each other over the frame. Apply wood glue to the frame and screw down the lined-up boards using 1 1 ⁄ 4  in (3.2 cm) drywall screws and a drill or nail them using brad nails and a nail gun. [9]
    • If you want to be able to see through the gate, leave space between each of the wood boards. Space the pieces of wood under 2 3 ⁄ 8  in (6.0 cm) inches for children under 2 and under 3 1 ⁄ 2  in (8.9 cm) inches for children older than 2 years old. [10] Gaps that are too large or small can lead to babies getting an arm, head, or leg caught between the wood boards.
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/03\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-7.jpg\/v4-460px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-7.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/03\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-7.jpg\/v4-728px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-7.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Place the cross-arm boards into the pre-cut “x” shape, apply wood glue beneath them, and screw or nail the cross-arm boards down. [11]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/fb\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-8.jpg\/v4-460px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-8.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/fb\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-8.jpg\/v4-728px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-8.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Place the cut 1 in × 3 in (2.5 cm × 7.6 cm) trim board directly onto the top of the gate to act as a piece of trim. Screw or nail the trim piece to the top of the gate after applying wood glue. [12]
  4. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/fb\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-9.jpg\/v4-460px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-9.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/fb\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-9.jpg\/v4-728px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-9.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use wood filler to fill the screw holes. This step is optional but results in a more seamless look. [13]
  5. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/94\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-10.jpg\/v4-460px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-10.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/94\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-10.jpg\/v4-728px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-10.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Use a professional sander or sand by hand using both medium and fine-grit sandpaper . Use a 4 in (10 cm) foam brush to stain the wood and a rag to blend it in completely. [14] Once dry, you can follow up with a sealant to protect the wood.
    6. Advertisement
Part 3
Part 3 of 3:

Installing the Gate

PDF download Download Article
  1. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/45\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-11.jpg\/v4-460px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-11.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/45\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-11.jpg\/v4-728px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-11.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Drill the two wall mounts (if using) to the sides of the gate opening with drywall screws. [15]
  2. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3a\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-12.jpg\/v4-460px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-12.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3a\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-12.jpg\/v4-728px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-12.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Attach a T-hinge set to the gate and the wall mount. Mark where the hinges will be affixed to the wall mount. Screw the hinges to the wall mount on the non-opening side of the gate. Then, attach the other side of each hinge to the gate itself. [16]
    • The number of hinges you use depends on the height of your baby gate; a taller gate may require 3 hinges, whereas a medium-sized gate may only need 2.
    • Use a spacer for the area beneath the gate so it remains straight or use a level to ensure a straight edge during installation. [17]
  3. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1f\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-13.jpg\/v4-460px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-13.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1f\/Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-13.jpg\/v4-728px-Diy-Baby-Gate-Step-13.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":728,"bigHeight":546,"licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>\u00a9 2024 wikiHow, Inc. All rights reserved. wikiHow, Inc. is the copyright holder of this image under U.S. and international copyright laws. This image is <b>not<\/b> licensed under the Creative Commons license applied to text content and some other images posted to the wikiHow website. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc.<br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"}
    Install the gate latch . Affix the gate lock pieces onto the opening side of the gate and the opposite wall mount. Place the lock behind the gate so it remains out of reach for little hands. [18]
    4. Advertisement

Expert Q&A

Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Tips

      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!

      Things You’ll Need

      • (6) 1 in × 3 in (2.5 cm × 7.6 cm) wood boards
      • (2) 1 in × 4 in (2.5 cm × 10.2 cm) wood boards
      • (1) 2 in × 4 in (5.1 cm × 10.2 cm) wood board
      • Circular saw or miter saw
      • Power drill or nail gun
      • 1 box of 1 1 ⁄ 4  in (3.2 cm) drywall screws or brad nails (and brad nail gun)
      • Wood glue
      • Wood filler
      • T-hinge set
      • Gate latch
      • Framing square
      • Tape measure
      • Medium and fine-grit sandpaper (or a sander)
      • Carpenter’s pencil
      • Level
      • Wood stain
      • Sealant
      • 4 in (10 cm) foam brush
      • Cloth

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Make 4 Different Types of Baby Wrap Carriers
      How to
      Hold a Newborn Baby: Safe and Proper Techniques
      How to
      Fold a Graco Stroller
      11 Polite (But Firm) Tips to Help You Tell Family and Friends Not to Kiss Your Baby
      How to
      Dress Your Baby for Chilly Weather (50 Degrees)
      How to
      Use the Chinese Birth Gender Chart for Gender Selection
      Why Do Babies Bend Over and Look Between Their Legs?
      How to
      Tell a Baby's Gender from an Ultrasound
      How to
      Assemble a Crib
      How to
      Install a Car Seat
      How to
      Wear a Moby Baby Wrap
      How to
      Clean an Uncircumcised Child's Penis
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://farmhouseishblog.com/barn-door-baby-gate/
      2. ↑ https://farmhouseishblog.com/barn-door-baby-gate/
      3. ↑ https://catzinthekitchen.com/2018/11/diy-farmhouse-baby-gate.html
      4. ↑ https://farmhouseishblog.com/barn-door-baby-gate/
      5. ↑ https://farmhouseishblog.com/barn-door-baby-gate/
      6. ↑ https://farmhouseishblog.com/barn-door-baby-gate/
      7. ↑ https://farmhouseishblog.com/barn-door-baby-gate/
      8. ↑ https://youtu.be/wqw6qgfjD7E?si=jXLPcnckEhqPyN7X&t=333
      9. ↑ https://farmhouseishblog.com/barn-door-baby-gate/
      1. ↑ https://factualfairytale.com/home-decor/diy-barn-door-baby-gate-pet-door/
      2. ↑ https://farmhouseishblog.com/barn-door-baby-gate/
      3. ↑ https://farmhouseishblog.com/barn-door-baby-gate/
      4. ↑ https://farmhouseishblog.com/barn-door-baby-gate/
      5. ↑ https://youtu.be/smGUad-s0S8?si=PV1Nm-1CVodLu_fG&t=385
      6. ↑ https://farmhouseishblog.com/barn-door-baby-gate/
      7. ↑ https://factualfairytale.com/home-decor/diy-barn-door-baby-gate-pet-door/
      8. ↑ https://youtu.be/uQapHN_hR6o?si=jpXCrQ9g6GW08XKr&t=682
      9. ↑ https://youtu.be/wqw6qgfjD7E?si=WiKE3J9rbGUCmhCL&t=502

      About This Article

      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 41 times.
      If you buy through links on our site, we may earn a commission .

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement