Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

See Project Resources for Lumber Requirements
1-1/4-Inch, 18 Gauge Brads
Stain Blocking Primer
Wood Stain and Polyurethane
Exterior Paint

Note

Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market.

How to Build Wooden Storage Boxes

These easy-to-build boxes can be made from pine, oak, maple or cedar, and then painted or stained to fit your space. In the diagrams, you will find the details you need for seven different sizes. They all follow the same process; print off the diagrams you need and get hammering.

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After you decide which of the boxes you want to build, cut two scraps of pine 1-inch by 3-inch and slightly longer than the height and length of the largest box you plan to build and adhere them to your work surface with double-face tape. Use a framing square to make sure the boards are at a 90-degree angle to one another (Photo 1). This L-shaped assembly frame will help you build the boxes so they stay square as you proceed.

Good to Know

Any straight boards will do when creating this assembly frame. Just look down the edges and avoid boards that are twisted or bowed, as this would cause assembly problems.

Cut to length all of the boards for the boxes you are building and sand them with 180-grit sandpaper (Project Diagram, Cutting List). Note that each part is used in a variety of ways: the fronts, backs and bottoms are all the same length and are labeled Part (A). The sides and any dividers are the parts labeled (B), and the corner cleats are labeled (C). Depending on the number of boxes and the number of parts, using a power sander saves you a great deal of time.

Good to Know

When assembling this project, you can hammer in 1-1/4-inch finish nails or use a brad nailer. A brad nailer shoots 18-gauge nails just below the surface of the wood — ideal for filling with wood putty. If you drive the nails with a hammer, use a nail set to sink the heads just below the wood surface.

Customize Your Box

You can add a personal touch to your box — with an array of ways to complement your home décor.

Ways to Use Your Wooden Box

Your wooden box is a sturdy and convenient storage place for a range of everyday items. Here are just a few suggestions:

Stow comfortable blankets for easy reach from the couch or recliner
Display a favorite figurine or vase
Pile pillows and cushions for when you need to stretch out
Place it by the front door to hold shoes, sandals and boots
Stack a couple of boxes on top of each other as a unique bookcase
Store notepads and supplies in your home office

Decorate Your Wooden Box

Once you've completed your wooden box, why not add some decoration? After your stain or paint has dried, decorate your box with stickers, stencils and stamps for a lively, eclectic feel — perfect for a kid's room or casual kitchen.

How to Build and Decorate Basic Wooden Boxes