There’s something so charming about taking a few humble materials and turning them into something that feels both useful and special, and that’s exactly what this outdoor towel hook board does. In this project, I’m attaching vintage-style glass doorknobs to a painted cedar fence board to create a sturdy, weather-friendly place to hang pool towels, cover-ups, or even a sun hat or two.
I especially love this kind of project for families, because it keeps damp towels off the ground and adds a pretty little decorative touch to the pool area or back patio. If you’re comfortable measuring, drilling, and driving a few screws, you can absolutely make this in an afternoon.
Materials
1 cedar fence board, 1 x 6 inch x 48 inches
Instructions
1. Sand the cedar fence board with 120-grit sandpaper until the front, back, and edges feel smooth, then wipe away all dust with a clean rag.
2. If your board has deep knot holes or rough cracks, press in a little wood filler and let it dry fully before sanding those spots smooth.
3. Paint the board with a coat of exterior white paint, covering the front, edges, and back, and let it dry according to the paint label.
4. Add a second light coat of paint if needed, then gently sand the edges and a few raised areas to create a soft distressed finish.
5. Brush or wipe on a coat of exterior clear sealer over the painted board to help it hold up outdoors, then let it dry completely.
6. Measure and mark a straight horizontal line across the board about 8 inches down from the top, then mark four evenly spaced knob locations along that line.
7. Drill a hole at each marked location sized to fit your screw shanks, keeping the drill as straight as possible so the knobs sit evenly.
8. Insert each screw from the back of the board to the front, adding a washer on the back side if needed for stability.
9. Thread a glass doorknob onto each screw on the front of the board, then secure it tightly with a washer and nut arrangement that fits your knob hardware so each knob feels snug and steady.
10. Turn the board over and attach two D-ring hangers near the top back corners, or install one side of a French cleat if you want a more secure wall mount.
11. Hold the finished board up in its outdoor spot, mark the wall or fence for mounting, and fasten it securely with exterior screws into solid backing.
12. Test each knob with a towel before use, making sure nothing wiggles, then hang your pool towels and enjoy your new hook board.
Variations & Tips
For a softer look: Try pale blue, sage green, or a sandy beige instead of white if you want the board to blend beautifully with a pool or patio area.
For picky family storage habits: I like spacing the knobs a little wider if I know big beach towels, swim cover-ups, and tote bags are all going to land in the same spot.
For thrifted knobs: If you’re using true vintage doorknobs, check that each one has compatible mounting hardware before you drill, because older pieces can vary quite a bit.
For extra weather protection: Cedar holds up well outdoors, but a fresh topcoat of exterior sealer every year or two will help the finish stay pretty longer.
For stronger mounting: If this board will hold heavy wet towels every day, I strongly recommend fastening it into studs, fence rails, or another solid support instead of relying on light-duty anchors.
For more function: You can make a longer version with 5 or 6 knobs if your family tends to collect towels by the pool the way mine always seems to.