I am looking to build a makiwara but I have only a very limited space to set it up and use it. Space being my main challenge it should meet the following criteria:

1: it should be relatively compact

2: it should be easily movable for storage when not used

This will be my first time to actually build one so I would like to hear ideas from anyone who has built one.

I have a small space in my house up stairs next to the pillar that holds up the building. I have set up a wing chun wall bag there. All you need is enough room to shrug your shoulder.

Well I have a little bit more space than just enough to shrug my shoulders. My biggest challenge is building something that can be easily set up and moved so that I can stash it somewhere where it will be protected from wear when I'm not using it. It should be usable indoors and outdoors.

Hawkmoon started up a great thread on homemade equipment here:

http://www.karateforums.com/diy-training-gear-vt45313-30.html

Or I found this website:

http://www.martialmakers.com/?page_id=6

There's quite a few different methods to building a makiwara on there.

I don't know enough about your space or your situation so this may not work, but have you considered making your board into a beautifully crafted permanent fixture or installation?

If this can work, you might spend a little more on quality material, spend a little time on a well crafted assembly, and some creativity to make it a piece or work of art in the room.

I can think of many reasons why this isn't appealing but thought I'd throw it out there anyway.

I like your idea of building the board into part of the room. Unfortunately the space I want to set up and use my equipment is also used by other members of my family including my 2 year old son. I have to be able to store it away to have the space for other uses. I have some idea for the material but it's the base holding it that is most difficult. I want a round, post type makiwara