Make a wooden box
A box is four sides, a bottom and maybe a lid. Learn to make one square and tight, and you've learned the heart of woodworking. Here's the video that hooks everyone, and everything you need for your first box.
Space neededA table or small bench
First projectAn open tray in an afternoon
Skill levelBeginner, hand tools
Good forGifts, storage, first-time makers
The video that hooks everyone
How to make a basic box, and why it matters
A plain wooden box with a lid, made step by step, and why boxes are the basis of almost everything in woodworking. Press play and see why it hooks people.
Is this your video? Claim your page and share in the sales
Tool list
What you need to start
Everything you need for your first project, and nothing you don't. It's a few boards, a saw with a miter box, glue and a hammer.
Starter kit
01Pine 1x4, 4 ft. + 1/4 in. plywoodSides from the 1x4, the bottom from a small plywood panel.
02Hand saw + miter boxThe miter box guides the saw so every cut is square.
03Speed square, tape + pencilMark and check square lines.
04Wood glueHolds the corners for good. The brads just clamp them.
05Hammer + 1 1/4 in. bradsSmall finishing nails that pin the joints.
06Nail setSinks the brad heads just below the surface.
07Bar clamps (2)Squeeze the corners while the glue dries.
08Sanding block + paper, 80 to 220Flush the corners and soften the edges.
09Wipe-on finish + ragsProtects the wood. Easy by hand.
10Safety glassesFor every cut and every nail.
The manual tells you what to look for when you buy each one.
- 1Cuts that aren't squareA corner can only close if both ends are square. Use the miter box and check every cut with the square.
- 2Measuring each side on its ownCut matching sides together, or set a stop block. Two separate measurements are two chances to be off.
- 3Too much glueA thin coat is enough. Thick glue squeezes out, smears and shows up as light spots under the finish.
