Building a wooden cigar humidor with a glass top is a rewarding project that combines craftsmanship with functionality. A humidor is designed to maintain a consistent level of humidity, preserving cigars for long-term storage. The glass top adds a visual appeal, allowing you to admire your collection. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to build a wooden cigar humidor with a glass top.
Materials Needed:
- Solid wood (mahogany, cedar, or walnut are ideal choices)
- Glass sheet (cut to the size of the lid)
- Humidification system (humidifier, sponge, or gel-based humidifiers)
- Humidity control (hygrometer)
- Wood glue
- Wood screws
- Hinges for the lid
- Wood finish (varnish, lacquer, or oil)
- Sandpaper (various grits)
- Measuring tools (tape measure, square, and calipers)
- Miter saw or table saw
- Router (optional)
- Clamps
- Drill and drill bits
Step 1: Plan and Design
Start by planning the dimensions of your humidor. A typical humidor can range in size from a small desktop model to a large cabinet, but the most common size is around 12 inches wide, 9 inches deep, and 6 inches tall. For the glass top, make sure the wood frame is slightly larger than the glass sheet for a secure fit.
Step 2: Select and Prepare the Wood
Choose a durable hardwood for the humidor. Cedar is often the wood of choice because it helps regulate humidity and is aromatic, enhancing the flavor of cigars. However, other woods like mahogany or walnut work well, too. Cut the wood into panels for the sides, top, bottom, and interior dividers (if you plan to include those).
The pieces for the box itself will need to be:
- Two sides (cut to height and depth)
- A back piece (cut to width and depth)
- A front piece (cut to the height and width)
- A top piece (the size of the box’s width and depth)
Step 3: Assemble the Box
Begin by assembling the sides and back of the humidor. Use wood glue and clamps to secure the joints, ensuring everything is square. For added strength, you can use wood screws. If you prefer, you can reinforce the corners with wood dowels or biscuits to create stronger joints.
Once the box is assembled, attach the bottom panel in the same manner, making sure it’s flush with the edges of the sides.
Step 4: Prepare the Glass Top Frame
To install the glass top, you’ll need to create a frame that will hold it in place. The frame should fit snugly over the edges of the glass, and the glass should sit slightly lower than the top edge of the wood frame to avoid any pressure on the glass.
Use a router to carve out a groove along the edges of the top panel, where the glass will sit. The depth of this groove should be enough to secure the glass but not too deep that it weakens the frame.
Step 5: Install the Glass Top
Once the frame is complete, carefully place the glass sheet into the groove. Secure the glass by applying a small amount of clear adhesive (glass glue) or by using small clips that hold the glass in place. Avoid using too much adhesive, as it can seep out and be visible.
Step 6: Adding the Humidification System
Now it’s time to add the humidification system. There are several types available, including sponges, gel-based humidifiers, or electronic humidifiers. For a basic humidor, a simple sponge or gel humidifier will suffice. Place the humidifier in a discreet corner or along one side of the humidor, making sure it doesn’t obstruct the storage of cigars.
Additionally, install a hygrometer to monitor the humidity levels. This can be a digital or analog model, and it should be positioned somewhere visible inside the humidor, like the door or the back panel.
Step 7: Install Hinges and Latch
For the lid, attach hinges along the back edge of the top panel. Make sure the hinges are installed securely to allow smooth opening and closing. You can also add a latch to keep the lid tightly closed when not in use.
Step 8: Sanding and Finishing
Before finishing the humidor, sand all the surfaces to a smooth finish, starting with medium-grit sandpaper and working up to fine grit. This will ensure the wood is smooth and free of any rough edges.
Once the humidor is sanded, apply a wood finish of your choice. A lacquer, varnish, or oil-based finish is suitable for a humidor. The finish will protect the wood and enhance its natural beauty while ensuring that it lasts for years. Make sure the finish you choose is non-toxic and safe for use with cigars.
Step 9: Final Assembly
Once the finish has dried, assemble the final components. Attach the top panel to the box with hinges and ensure the glass top is properly secured. Place the hygrometer and humidification system inside. Your humidor is now ready to store your cigars!
Step 10: Seasoning the Humidor
Before placing cigars inside, you must season the humidor to ensure it maintains the correct humidity level. To do this, wipe down the interior with a clean sponge dampened with distilled water. Place the humidification device in the humidor and leave it closed for a couple of days. This allows the wood to absorb moisture and stabilize the internal environment.
Once your humidor is properly seasoned, you can start adding your cigars, adjusting the humidity as needed.
Conclusion
Building a wooden cigar humidor with a glass top requires patience, precision, and a good understanding of woodworking. However, the end result is a beautiful and functional piece that will keep your cigars in optimal condition. By following these steps and selecting the right materials, you can create a custom humidor that reflects your style and preserves your cigar collection.
For those interested in learning more about woodworking projects like this one, consider checking out Ted’s Woodworking Course. With over 16,000 plans, it’s the perfect resource for woodworking enthusiasts at any skill level. You can get started today at Ted’s Woodworking Course.