Creating a wooden jewelry display case with velvet lining is a satisfying project that combines woodworking skills with attention to detail and design. Whether you’re showcasing jewelry at home, in a store, or as a gift, a well-crafted display case can elevate the presentation of your pieces. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create your own wooden jewelry display case with velvet lining.
Materials Needed:
- Wooden boards (Pine, oak, or your preferred wood)
- Velvet fabric (You’ll need enough to cover the interior of your display case)
- Wood glue
- Wood screws or nails
- Clear wood finish or varnish
- Wooden trim pieces (for the frame and lid edges)
- Hinges (for the lid)
- Magnetic closures or small locks (optional, for added security)
- Measuring tape, pencil, and square
- Utility knife or rotary cutter
- Spray adhesive (for the velvet lining)
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
Step 1: Design Your Display Case
Start by planning your display case dimensions. This will depend on how many jewelry pieces you want to display and the overall size of your collection. Sketch out the design, including the dimensions of the base, sides, and lid. A typical display case has:
- A flat base where the jewelry will rest.
- Four sides (two short and two long) to form the box shape.
- A hinged lid for easy access.
Step 2: Cut Your Wood Pieces
Using your measurements, cut your wooden boards to size. You’ll need:
- One base piece
- Two short side pieces
- Two long side pieces
- One piece for the lid (if you want a separate lid or you can opt for a fully open display)
- Trim pieces to frame the lid and sides (optional for decorative purposes)
Ensure all edges are straight and smooth. A table saw or miter saw will work well for precise cuts, but a handsaw can also be used if you’re working with smaller boards.
Step 3: Assemble the Case Frame
Begin by assembling the box part of your jewelry display case. Apply wood glue along the edges where the sides meet, then clamp them together until the glue dries. Once dry, reinforce the corners with screws or small nails for extra stability. If you’re using trim pieces, attach them after the box is assembled for a clean finish.
Step 4: Prepare the Lid (Optional)
If you want the case to have a hinged lid, attach the hinges to the back of the case. Make sure the lid fits snugly and opens and closes easily. You can also use small magnetic closures at the front to keep the lid securely shut.
If you prefer a fully open case, you can skip this step and move forward with securing your velvet lining to the base and sides.
Step 5: Sand and Finish the Wood
Once your box is assembled, sand the surface and edges with medium grit sandpaper to remove any rough spots or splinters. Then, smooth it further with fine grit sandpaper to achieve a polished finish. After sanding, wipe the wood down to remove dust, then apply your choice of clear wood finish or varnish to protect the wood and give it a professional look. Let the finish dry completely before moving on to the velvet lining.
Step 6: Cut and Apply the Velvet Lining
Measure the interior dimensions of your display case to cut the velvet fabric. You’ll need to cover the base, sides, and possibly the inside of the lid (if applicable). Use a utility knife or rotary cutter for precise fabric cuts.
Apply a layer of spray adhesive to the interior surfaces of your box where the velvet will be attached. Start by placing the velvet on the base, smoothing it out to avoid wrinkles. Gently press the fabric against the wood and trim any excess fabric using your utility knife. Repeat this process for the sides and lid.
For a neat finish, make sure the velvet edges are tucked neatly into corners and glued securely. The fabric should fit snugly inside the case to give it a high-end, professional look.
Step 7: Add Dividers (Optional)
If you want to separate jewelry pieces within the display case, consider adding small dividers. You can cut thin strips of wood to create compartments for rings, necklaces, or earrings. These dividers can be glued to the base or attached with small nails, then lined with velvet to match the rest of the display.
Step 8: Final Touches
Once everything is assembled and the velvet is secure, inspect the case for any imperfections and touch up any areas as needed. If you added a lid, test the hinges and closures to ensure they work smoothly.
You can add decorative features like gold or silver hardware to enhance the overall look, or you could even add a glass top to protect the jewelry while maintaining visibility. If you’re giving this as a gift, consider engraving or adding personal touches for an extra special finish.
Step 9: Display Your Jewelry
Once your display case is complete, you can proudly place your jewelry pieces inside. Arrange your collection with care, considering the display’s visual appeal. Whether it’s rings, necklaces, bracelets, or earrings, your velvet-lined wooden jewelry case will provide both a functional and aesthetically pleasing display for your prized possessions.
Conclusion
Building a wooden jewelry display case with velvet lining is a fulfilling DIY project that allows you to showcase your jewelry in a luxurious, organized manner. With some basic woodworking skills, attention to detail, and a bit of creativity, you can craft a beautiful display piece that is both practical and elegant.
If you’re passionate about woodworking and want to dive deeper into more advanced projects, check out Ted’s Woodworking Course for detailed plans and expert guidance on a variety of woodworking creations.