Tools and Materials

Tools

Materials

Note

Product costs, availability, and item numbers may vary online or by market. Items may be Special Order in some stores. Paint colors may vary slightly from those shown. Availability varies by market for lumber species and sizes.

Constructing a Wood Box

Small box woodworking is a simple project that can make a wide assortment of finished items. From storage boxes to wall shelves to plant stands, DIY wood boxes make versatile pieces to decorate your home. Follow our simple steps to learn how to make a wooden box.

Instructions

With your tape measure, mark off 4 feet or the halfway point of your 1 x 6 board. This will make the next steps easier without having to work with a longer board, plus give you materials for another project.

You will need to cut two 5 1/2-inch-long pieces and two 4-inch-long pieces. Place the tip of the tape measure at the end of the board and mark a V at the desired measurement.

Place a speed square with the lip pressed against the edge of the board and with the square's other edge in the middle of the V. Mark a line across the board, and then re-measure the line.

After the glue has dried, drive 4d finishing nails into the corners to reinforce the assembly. Be sure the nails enter the wood squarely. Lightly tap the nail, driving it in just enough to make sure it's straight, and adjust if needed. Space the nails 1 1/2 to 2 inches apart. Repeat Steps 3 and 4 with the remaining two pieces, and then glue, clamp, and nail the assemblies together.

Tip

You can also use small finishing wood screws for a decorative touch.

Finished Box Ideas

4 wood plant boxes with succulents and cloth handles.

Now that your box is complete, you might want to think about finishing with a coat of paint or stain. You can spray paint it with a paint and primer without sanding for a more natural wood look. For staining, take a sanding block and lightly sand to smooth out any rough edges and wipe with a damp cloth to remove any dust. Apply stain and a coat with polyurethane or polycrylic to seal the finish.

Your new wood box can be used for a variety of ideas, from toy and craft storage to a shadowbox to a plant stand. The only limit is your imagination. Also, now that you have the box-building basics, you can construct larger pieces for vinyl record storage or a planter box.

How to Build a Box