Copper-Pipe Towel Ladder

Following cutter's instructions, cut 60-inch pipes into four 10-inch pieces; two 18-inch pieces; two 2-inch pieces; and two 1-inch pieces, or have them cut to size at the hardware store. (Keep the three 2-foot pipes intact—they will be used at full length for the horizontal supports.) Clean pipes with acetone on a rag. Polish, if needed.

Spray-paint flanges with copper paint; let dry. Lay out piping on the floor according to diagram at left. Assemble the two vertical sides first, except for male adapters and flanges; as you do, put a small bead of adhesive at each joint (either on pipe or inside tee or elbow), working quickly after application (it dries fast).

Connect vertical sides with horizontal pipes, putting a small bead of adhesive at each joint. After assembling verticals and horizontals, add male adapters and flanges, putting a small bead of adhesive at each joint. Attach top flanges to wall, using screws and wall anchors if needed. Attach bottom flanges to floor, using appropriate method for flooring.