Creating a wooden display box for medals and awards is a rewarding woodworking project that combines both craftsmanship and personal significance. A well-crafted display box not only keeps your medals and awards safe but also serves as a beautiful and meaningful way to showcase your achievements. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create a stylish and functional wooden display box.
Materials and Tools Needed:
- Wood: Choose hardwood like oak, walnut, or maple for durability and a polished look.
- Plywood: For the back panel of the box.
- Glass: To protect the medals while allowing visibility.
- Hinges: For the lid.
- Magnets or latch: To keep the lid securely closed.
- Wood glue: For strong and lasting joins.
- Nails or screws: For securing the box frame.
- Sandpaper: For a smooth finish.
- Wood finish: To enhance the wood’s appearance.
- Measuring tape and ruler: For accurate measurements.
- Miter saw or circular saw: To cut the wood.
- Drill: For hole placement, especially if you’re including hooks or hangers.
- Picture hanging hardware: If you plan to hang the box on the wall.
Step 1: Plan and Measure
Before cutting any wood, measure the space where you plan to display the box. This ensures the display will fit perfectly in its designated location. Next, measure the dimensions of the medals or awards you intend to showcase, including their size and any ribbons or plaques attached. This will determine the interior size of the box.
- Box Dimensions: The box should be large enough to hold the medals without overcrowding. Allow extra space for depth to accommodate multiple layers or hooks if you plan to hang the medals.
- Lid Dimensions: The lid should be slightly larger than the box to ensure it covers the entire top.
Step 2: Cut the Wood Pieces
Cut the wood to the required sizes based on your measurements. You will need the following:
- Back Panel: A piece of plywood or hardwood for the back of the display box.
- Side Panels: Four wooden pieces that form the sides of the box.
- Top Panel (Lid): A wooden piece that will serve as the lid.
- Base Panel: A wooden piece that will form the bottom of the box.
Use a miter saw or circular saw to cut the wood, making sure the edges are straight and precise.
Step 3: Assemble the Frame
Start by assembling the four side panels. Apply wood glue along the edges of the side panels and attach them to the back panel. Use clamps to hold the pieces together while the glue dries. For extra strength, you can also use nails or screws.
Once the sides are securely attached to the back, add the base panel by gluing and securing it in place. Ensure everything is square and properly aligned.
Step 4: Attach the Lid
The lid should fit snugly on top of the box. If you want a hinged lid, attach two small hinges to the back of the box. Measure and drill holes for the screws, then attach the hinges. Alternatively, if you want a more minimalist design, you can simply make the lid removable.
For a secure closure, consider adding a magnet or latch on the front. This will prevent the lid from accidentally opening.
Step 5: Add Glass (Optional)
If you want the medals to be displayed behind glass for protection, measure the inside of the lid and cut a piece of glass to fit. You can have a glass panel cut at a local hardware store or use a frame shop. Attach the glass to the inside of the lid using small clips or silicone glue.
Step 6: Create Hooks or Dividers for Medals
To organize your medals inside the box, you can either create small wooden hooks or dividers. For hooks, measure and mark where you want to place them, then drill small holes for the hooks. Screw them into place, making sure they are evenly spaced.
Alternatively, if your medals have ribbons, you can create slotted dividers to keep the medals upright and organized.
Step 7: Sand and Finish
Once the box is assembled, sand all surfaces using sandpaper to ensure a smooth, polished finish. Be sure to smooth out any rough edges or seams.
After sanding, apply a wood finish to enhance the natural beauty of the wood. You can use a clear polyurethane finish for a glossy look or a satin finish for a more understated appearance. Allow the finish to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
Step 8: Install Picture Hanging Hardware (Optional)
If you want to hang your display box on a wall, attach picture hanging hardware to the back of the box. Choose the appropriate hardware based on the weight of the box and medals.
Step 9: Display Your Medals and Awards
Once the display box is complete and the finish has dried, it’s time to arrange your medals and awards. Hang or place them inside the box, positioning them neatly to show off your achievements.
Additional Customization Ideas
- Personalization: Add a plaque with your name, event details, or a custom engraving to the front of the box for a personal touch.
- Lighting: Add LED strip lighting inside the box to highlight your medals and awards.
- Multiple Compartments: If you have many medals, create multiple levels or compartments within the box to display them all.
By following these steps, you’ll create a beautiful and functional wooden display box that will protect and showcase your hard-earned medals and awards for years to come.
For further woodworking projects and detailed plans, consider exploring Ted’s Woodworking Course. It offers step-by-step instructions and comprehensive plans for woodworking enthusiasts at all levels. Ted’s Woodworking Course.