Hot Wheels Parking Structure

This project demonstrates how to build a semi-realistic parking garage display for hot wheels and similar die-cast cars. This set up allows for maximum visibility and accessibility to the toys while providing a lively showcase.

This project requires adult supervision or help with multiple steps. The required tools are dangerous and can cause extreme bodily harm if used incorrectly. This project is not recommended for those younger than 15.

Materials and Tools Needed:

• 3’ x 2’ fiberwood board 
• ⅜” x 36” square dowel x6
• Red paint marker 
• White paint marker 
• Yellow paint marker 
• Gray spray paint can x2
• Trash bags
• Wood glue
• ½” Wood screws 
• Sand paper
• Table saw
• Hand saw 
• Drill + ⅛” drill bit 
• Screwdriver 
• Ruler
• Painters tape 
• Sharpie

*This step requires adult supervision*

Using the ruler and table saw, cut the fiberboard into six squares, each being 12”x12”.

For each of the six boards, use the drill and a ⅛” drill bit to puncture each of the four corners and one hole in the middle of three of the sides. The holes should be drilled approximately ¼” away from the corner on each side.

*This step requires adult supervision*

Perform this step in an outdoor or well-ventilated area. It is recommended to wear gloves and a face mask to prevent extra mess or paint inhalation. 

Use the sandpaper to scratch up the smooth side of the fiberboard. This allows the paint to better stick to the wood. 

Open and lay trash bags on the ground, use painters tape to ensure the bag will not move during painting. This step is to prevent paint from staining the ground. 

Place one of the 12”x12” fiberwood boards on the trash bag. 

Use the cans of spray paint to cover each side of the board. Start with very light coats and spray evenly to ensure the best possible quality of coverage. 

Set aside to dry for two hours.

*This step requires adult supervision*

Using the ruler and hand saw, cut the dowels into nine sections, each section being four inches in length. 

Use sandpaper to smooth out any rough edges.

Use the red paint marker to thoroughly coat the dowels in paint. 

Let dry for five minutes.

*This step requires adult supervision* 

On each square end of the dowels, use a drill and a ⅛” bit to drill a short pilot hole, only go approximately ¼” deep.

Use a sharpie, ruler, and the following diagram to draw parking lot decals on the painted fiberwood boards.

Trace over the sharpie lines with a white paint marker, and fill in the arrows with a yellow paint marker. This step may be repeated as many times as needed to get sharp and clear lines. 

Let dry for five minutes before applying another coat of paint. 

Install using screws on both ends of the dowel to ensure full support.

Dowels should be installed in an alternating position throughout the levels. Installing dowels in the corners on the first level, installing dowels in the middle on the second level, and so forth.

To provide extra support, place wood glue on each end of the remaining dowels and place in the remaining support spots that cannot be installed using screws.

On every level, glue a dowel along the white center line towards the front of the structure. This ensures that the project does not lean.

Let dry for an hour.

After everything is dry, add as many cars as possible to set up the display.