Making a wooden jewelry box with velvet lining is a rewarding woodworking project that combines craftsmanship with a touch of luxury. The velvet lining will give the jewelry box a soft, elegant feel, perfect for storing precious items. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you build one from start to finish.
Materials You’ll Need:
- Wood (Hardwood like oak, cherry, or walnut is ideal)
- Velvet fabric (Choose a color that complements the wood)
- Wood glue
- Screws or nails
- Brass hinges
- Drawer pulls (optional)
- Plywood (for the bottom of the box)
- Wood finish or stain (optional for wood treatment)
- Foam padding (for lining)
- Spray adhesive (to attach the velvet fabric)
- Saw (miter or table saw)
- Clamps
- Sandpaper (various grits)
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Carpenter’s square
- Pencil
- Cutting mat or board for fabric
Step 1: Plan Your Design
Start by sketching your jewelry box. Think about the dimensions you want. A typical jewelry box might be around 8-10 inches long, 4-6 inches wide, and 4-6 inches high. Consider how many compartments or drawers you want to include inside the box. This will help you plan the layout for the velvet lining, as you’ll need to account for each compartment.
Step 2: Cut the Wood Pieces
Once you’ve finalized your design, it’s time to cut the wood. You’ll need the following pieces:
- Base of the box (a flat piece of wood for the bottom)
- Side walls (four pieces for the sides of the box)
- Lid (a separate piece for the top)
- Dividers or inserts (if you want compartments inside the box)
Measure and cut the pieces with a saw. Use a miter saw or table saw to make precise cuts for the sides and lid. For more complex designs, consider adding a rabbet joint (a notch cut along the edge of the pieces) so the walls fit together snugly.
Step 3: Assemble the Box
Now that all your pieces are cut, it’s time to assemble the box. Apply wood glue along the edges of the pieces and clamp them together until the glue dries (following the manufacturer’s drying time). You can reinforce the joints by using screws or nails at the corners for added strength. If you’re working with a more intricate design, consider using dowels or dovetail joints for a more professional finish.
Ensure the box is square using a carpenter’s square to check the alignment of the sides and the base. Once the glue is dry, you can sand any rough edges or uneven spots to smooth the surfaces.
Step 4: Install the Hinges and Lid
For the lid, you will need to attach brass hinges at the back of the box. Measure and mark where the hinges should go, then use screws to attach the hinges to the back edge of the box and the underside of the lid. Test the movement of the lid to ensure it opens and closes properly.
Step 5: Prepare the Velvet Lining
Cut the velvet fabric to fit the bottom of the box and the inside of the lid. You’ll also need to measure and cut foam padding to fit inside the box, as it will add cushion and support for the velvet.
- Cutting the fabric: Lay the velvet on a flat surface and cut it slightly larger than the area you intend to line.
- Cutting the foam: Using a craft knife, cut foam padding to fit the interior. This will give the velvet a soft and plush feel, especially when storing delicate jewelry.
Step 6: Attach the Velvet Lining
Before attaching the velvet, apply a light coating of spray adhesive to the surface where the velvet will go. Carefully position the foam padding, ensuring it fits snugly. Then, spray the adhesive on top of the foam and press the velvet fabric into place, smoothing out any wrinkles or bubbles.
Be sure to trim any excess fabric neatly and glue the edges to the sides of the box. For the lid, follow the same process—apply adhesive, smooth the fabric, and trim any excess.
Step 7: Finish the Wood
After the velvet is in place, you can focus on finishing the wood. Sand the entire box smooth with progressively finer sandpaper, starting with a coarser grit (like 120) and finishing with a finer grit (like 220). This will help you achieve a smooth surface that is pleasant to the touch.
Once the wood is smooth, apply your choice of stain or finish. If you want a glossy, durable finish, use a polyurethane or lacquer. If you prefer a more natural look, a beeswax or oil finish may be appropriate. Apply the finish evenly with a clean cloth and allow it to dry completely.
Step 8: Attach the Lid Handle or Drawer Pull
For added elegance, you can add a drawer pull or a decorative handle to the front of the lid or any compartments. This will not only make the box more functional but also give it a custom, finished look.
Step 9: Final Assembly
Once everything is dry and in place, give the box one last inspection. Open and close the lid to ensure everything is functioning as it should. If necessary, make any final adjustments to the hinges or lining.
Step 10: Enjoy Your Jewelry Box
Your wooden jewelry box with velvet lining is now complete! It’s perfect for storing rings, necklaces, and other precious items. The combination of the wood and velvet gives it a luxurious feel, and the thoughtful craftsmanship ensures it will last for many years.
If you’re new to woodworking or looking for more advanced techniques, consider exploring Ted’s Woodworking Course. It offers comprehensive plans and detailed instructions for a variety of woodworking projects, including jewelry boxes, with step-by-step guidance that can help you expand your skills.