Creating a wooden guitar pick holder with a lid is a simple yet functional woodworking project. This type of project can be a great addition to any guitar player’s setup, offering a stylish way to store and protect their picks while keeping them easily accessible. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make your own wooden guitar pick holder with a lid.
Materials Needed:
- Wood of your choice (such as walnut, oak, or maple)
- Wood glue
- Sandpaper (fine grit, around 220)
- Wood finish (optional)
- Small hinges (for the lid)
- Screws (small, for the hinges)
- Saw (table saw, miter saw, or hand saw)
- Drill
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Pencil
- Clamp
- Safety goggles and ear protection
Step 1: Plan and Measure
Start by planning the size of your guitar pick holder. The dimensions can vary based on how many picks you wish to store, but a typical size could be around 4 inches wide, 3 inches deep, and 2 inches high. The lid should fit snugly on top.
Using your measuring tape or ruler, mark the dimensions for each piece on the wood. You will need:
- The base: A rectangle for the bottom of the holder.
- The sides: Four pieces, two for the length and two for the depth of the box.
- The lid: A piece to fit perfectly over the top.
Use a pencil to mark the cuts on the wood clearly.
Step 2: Cut the Wood Pieces
Using a saw, cut the wood into the pieces you’ve measured:
- Cut the base piece (typically a rectangle) to your desired dimensions.
- Cut the side pieces (two for the length and two for the depth).
- Cut the lid piece to match the width and length of the top of the box.
Make sure your cuts are straight and clean to ensure a perfect fit when assembling the box.
Step 3: Sand the Edges
Once you’ve made all your cuts, it’s important to smooth the edges. Use sandpaper to smooth the cut surfaces and remove any splinters. This will help the box look clean and prevent any sharp edges.
If desired, you can also round the edges of the lid and the sides to give the holder a more refined, professional look.
Step 4: Assemble the Box
Now it’s time to assemble the sides of the box. Start by applying wood glue to the edges of the base piece and the sides. Be careful not to use too much glue, as excess glue can squeeze out and ruin the finish. Hold the pieces together using clamps until the glue sets. You can also use wood screws for extra security, particularly if you’re looking to make a more durable piece.
Ensure that the sides are perfectly aligned, and give the glue ample time to dry before proceeding to the next step. This usually takes around 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the wood and the type of glue used.
Step 5: Attach the Lid Hinges
Once the sides are securely glued, it’s time to attach the lid. Position the lid on top of the box and ensure it fits properly. If you want a simple hinge mechanism, use small brass or steel hinges. Mark where the hinges will go on the lid and the back edge of the box, then drill small pilot holes for the screws.
Attach the hinges to the box and lid using screws, making sure they are tight enough to hold the lid in place but still allow it to open and close smoothly.
Step 6: Finish the Holder
Now that the structure is complete, you can finish the guitar pick holder. You can either leave the wood in its natural state for a rustic look or apply a finish for protection and a polished appearance. If you want to stain the wood, apply your stain evenly and let it dry completely. You can then apply a coat of wood varnish or polyurethane to protect the surface and give it a glossy finish.
Allow the finish to dry and cure completely before using the box.
Step 7: Final Touches
Once the finish is dry, you can add a custom touch to your guitar pick holder. You might want to add felt or velvet lining inside to prevent the picks from scratching the wood or add a design to the top of the lid, such as engraving or wood burning.
Step 8: Organize Your Picks
Finally, once your wooden guitar pick holder with a lid is complete, place your guitar picks inside. The lid will keep the picks secure while the box serves as a stylish and practical accessory.
This guitar pick holder not only helps organize your picks but can also serve as a personalized gift or a decorative item for your music room.
If you’re looking to take on more woodworking projects like this one, you might want to explore Ted’s Woodworking Course for detailed plans and instructions on a wide range of woodworking projects. Check it out here: Ted’s Woodworking Course.