A super easy and quick trinket box that you can build from ½” thick craft boards (or a cedar picket or even some scrap wood). It makes an ideal starter project, and is great for a gift.
Preparation
Shopping List
1 pc ½” x 5 ½” craft board at 2’
1 pc ½” x 2 ½” craft board at 3’
OR
1 pc ½” x 5 ½” x 6’ cedar picket
1” finish nails
Wood glue
Super glue (if using wood pull)
Sandpaper
Wood filler (if painting)
Wood putty (if staining)
Paint or Stain for desired finish
1 knob or pull (optional, if not using a wood pull)
Note: you could also substitute scrap 1x3 and 1x6 for the craft boards, or use bigger 1x scrap cut down to standard board sizes. Follow picket cutting/measuring directions for sides/inner lid if using scrap 1x boards.
Cut list for ½” thick craft board:
2 pc ½” x 5 ½” @ 5 ½” (top & bottom, 5 ½” x 5 ½”)
2 pc ½” x 2 ½” @ 5 ½ (front & back, 2 ½” x 5 ½”)
2 pc ½” x 2 ½” @ 4 ½” (sides, 2 ½” x 4 ½”)
1 pc ½” x 5 ½” cut to 4 3/8” x 4 3/8”
(inner lid, trim to fit – about 1/8” smaller than the inner dimensions of the box)
Pull: use desired size piece of wood OR a store bought knob or pull)
Cut list for Cedar picket (1/2” x 5 ½”)
2 pc @ 5 ½” (top & bottom, 5 ½” x 5 ½”)
1 pc @ 5 ½”, then turn and cut off 2 strips @ 2 ½” wide (front & back)
1 pc @ 4 ½”, then turn and cut off 2 strips @ 2 ½” wide (sides)
(see note on measuring for length of sides)
1 pc @ 4 3/8”, then turn and cut to 4 3/8” (inner lid, trim to fit) (see note on measurements)
Pull: cut desired size piece of wood OR use a store bought knob or pull
If your picket or board doesn’t measure 5 ½” x ½” - measure for sides/inner lid:
Measure width of wood: ______
Measure thickness of wood: ________
Length of side: Width minus 2X thickness
Ex: 5 3/8” wide picket @ ½”, sides would be
5 3/8” minus 1” = 4 3/8” for side
Inner lid: 4 3/8” x 4 ¼” (1/8” shorter than side, trim to fit)
If you use a cedar picket, sand it smooth first, then measure its dimensions before measuring for your cuts.
Please read through the entire plan and all comments before beginning this project. It is also advisable to review the Getting Started Section. Take all necessary precautions to build safely and smartly. Work on a clean level surface, free of imperfections or debris. Always use straight boards. Check for square after each step. Always predrill holes before attaching with screws. Use glue with finish nails for a stronger hold. Wipe excess glue off bare wood for stained projects, as dried glue will not take stain. Be safe, have fun, and ask for help if you need it. Good luck!
Instructions
Step 1
Step 2
Attach bottom to box, keeping outside edges flush, using finish nails and glue.
Step 3
Cut inner lid and trim to fit. The inner lid should fit easily inside the box without catching on the sides. Top & bottom views of how it would look (wait till after finishing to attach inner lid):
Step 4
Sand and finish as desired. Recommend wood filler if you are painting. If you are staining or just using poly, try finishing first and adding some matching color wood putty to fill any nail holes afterward.
Step 5
It is always recommended to apply a test coat on a hidden area or scrap piece to ensure color evenness and adhesion. Use primer or wood conditioner as needed.
