Creating a place not just to store a precious item like a ring but to encapsulate the moment it represents. This DIY Sliding Ring Box Project will help you make an into the craft of making a Sliding Ring Box is not just about putting pieces of wood together. It’s about shaping a tangible memory. The allure of working with your hands, the scent of the wood, and the personal touches you can add make this more than a box; it’s a keepsake. Join me as we explore step by step how to bring this sliding ring box to life.
DIY Sliding Ring Box Project
Materials List
- Beech Wood: You will need a length of 800mm, which is roughly 50mm wide and 10mm thick for the project and a piece slightly thinner for the inner box.
- Walnut Veneer: A small amount is needed for finishing touches.
- Magnets: 2 pieces, each 3mm in size, for the sliding mechanism.
- Leather: A small piece to line the bottom of the box, adding a touch of elegance.
- Glue: Titebond III is recommended for its strong bond and durability.
Tools Used
- Table Saw
- Router
- Handsaw
- Various Clamps
- Craft Knife: To trim the veneer to perfection.
Making of the Project
Crafting the Outer Box
- Begin by preparing your beech wood planks to the correct thickness using a planer. Aim for about 10mm thickness for the outer box, and a slightly thinner plank for the inner box.
- Rip the chosen plank for the outer box to about 50mm width, then adjust your table saw blade to cut at 45 degrees to create beveled edges along each side.
- Measure and cut four sections from this plank. These will form the sides of your outer box.
- Create channels (or dados) on the bottom piece of the box for the runners. This step is crucial for aligning the inner box with the outer one and can be efficiently done on a router table.
- Assemble the sides using glue, securing them with decorator’s blue tape as a makeshift clamp to hold everything together while the glue dries.
Constructing the Inner Box
- Take measurements from the now complete outer box frame; this guides the size of the inner box.
- Cut the wood slightly larger than the inner measurements of the outer box to leave room for sanding and a snug fit.
- Assemble this inner box similarly to the outer one but refrain from gluing the top edge to create a removable U-shaped frame.
- Attach two end pieces to this frame and sand until it fits comfortably within the outer box.
Adding the Runners
- Prepare runners from a suitable length of wood, ensuring their thickness and width allow them to fit snugly in the channels of the outer box.
- Once cut, refine their size with careful planing for a smooth glide in the grooves.
- Secure the runners to the inner box, aligning them carefully with the outer box’s channels before gluing. A clever trick here is to raise them slightly with veneer strips for a perfect fit.
Finishing the Outer Box
- Complete the outer box by attaching end parts to enclose it fully.
- Cut the box in half to create the sliding mechanism, tidying up any rough edges with a sander.
- Devise a stopping mechanism to prevent the inner box from fully detaching. A T-shaped piece of wood fitted into a slot works well.
- Install magnets at the sides for a secure close, covering them with walnut veneer for a seamless look.
Assemble and Finish
- With the inner box in place, install the T-stops into their slots.
- Apply the final pieces of veneer, clamp, and allow the glue to dry.
- Round the edges for a smooth finish, sand the box to a fine texture, and apply a layer of black bison wax for shine.
Reflections
Upon completion, take a moment to appreciate the craftsmanship. While every project offers learning opportunities, the satisfaction of creating such a unique item is unmatched. Considering the effectiveness of the magnets or the simplicity of the stopping mechanism might give ideas for future projects.
This sliding ring box project is a testament to the beauty and intricacy of woodworking, offering not just a functional item but a story and a memory. Whether for personal use, a gift, or simply the joy of creating, it represents the profound connection between maker and craft.
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