Building a wooden jewelry armoire with hidden storage requires careful planning, woodworking skills, and the right materials. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create one:
Materials and Tools Needed:
- Wood: Hardwood like oak, maple, or plywood for the body, and softer wood for internal compartments.
- Wood glue
- Screws and nails
- Wood finish (stain, varnish, or paint)
- Mirror (optional, if you want to include one)
- Drawer slides
- Hinges
- Sandpaper
- Measuring tape, square, and level
- Saw (table saw or circular saw)
- Drill with bits
- Router (optional, for decorative edges)
Step-by-Step Process:
1. Design and Plan
- Dimensions: Decide on the size of your armoire. A typical size might be 30-40 inches tall, 12-18 inches wide, and 8-12 inches deep.
- Hidden Compartments: Plan hidden compartments such as false backs, hidden drawers, or secret compartments within the cabinet. These can be behind mirrors, disguised by intricate doors, or below false bottoms in drawers.
2. Cut the Pieces
- Start by cutting the main panels: two sides, top, bottom, and back panel.
- Cut any internal components like drawer dividers or shelves. Ensure that these pieces fit within the main structure.
- If you plan to install a mirror on the front, make sure the frame is large enough to house the mirror and the mechanism for opening and closing.
3. Assemble the Frame
- Attach the sides to the bottom and top panels using wood glue and screws for extra strength.
- If you’re using plywood, reinforce corners with wood screws or corner brackets.
- Attach the back panel, ensuring everything is square and level.
4. Build the Hidden Storage
- Secret Compartments: You can create a hidden compartment by installing a false back on the inside of the armoire. This can be revealed by removing a shelf or panel.
- Secret Drawers: Use small, hidden drawers that slide out from the back or bottom of the armoire. You can install a drawer slide system, ensuring these are well-hidden.
- Mirror Door: If you use a mirror on the front, you can create a pivoting or sliding door system that conceals small storage areas when the mirror is closed.
5. Install Drawers and Shelving
- For jewelry storage, include a combination of small drawers and trays. You can add velvet lining or foam inserts for compartments to keep items organized.
- If you want to hide additional storage, install secret drawers that are triggered by a hidden latch or mechanism.
6. Install the Mirror (Optional)
- If you plan to have a mirror, frame it and mount it in a way that allows it to pivot or slide open to reveal the hidden storage.
- Use hinges or a sliding mechanism to give it a smooth motion when you open it.
7. Finishing Touches
- Sand the entire piece to smooth out any rough edges.
- Apply a wood finish or paint to match your desired look. Stains and varnishes help to protect the wood, while paint offers more color options.
- Attach drawer pulls or hidden latches for the secret compartments.
- Install any decorative elements, such as carved designs or trim.
8. Mounting and Final Assembly
- Install the jewelry armoire on a wall if it’s a wall-mounted model or add a stand if it’s free-standing.
- Ensure the hinges and any moving parts work smoothly.
Tips:
- Safety: Always wear safety goggles and a dust mask when cutting and sanding.
- Hardware: Use quality drawer slides, hinges, and screws to ensure the longevity of the piece.
- Customization: Customize the interior compartments based on your jewelry collection (e.g., necklace hooks, ring trays, or small compartments for earrings).
By carefully planning and adding hidden compartments, you’ll end up with a functional and aesthetically pleasing jewelry armoire that has both visible and secret storage.
If you’re interested in learning more woodworking techniques, check out Teds Woodworking Course here.