Learn how to build a storage box
One of the most valuable pieces of equipment at home is a storage box. If you want to store toys, clothes, books, etc., then a storage box is an essential item. It’s also a great way to organize your belongings. Today, we’re going to talk about how to build a storage box for under $20.
You may have seen these boxes on Instagram and Pinterest but wondered how they were built. They are pretty simple to construct. All you need are some wood, glue, screws, nails, and paint.
Steps to Build a Storage Box:
Step 1: Cut Your Wood Pieces
The first thing that needs to be done is cutting your wooden parts into appropriate sizes so that everything fits together nicely when it comes time to assemble them. You’ll start by making two longboards with dimensions of L x W inches. Then cut four shortboards from each board using a jigsaw or circular saw. The length of the short boards should be approximately 3/4 inches more concise than the longer ones. For example, if one side of the longboard measures 12 inches in length, the other will measure 11-1/2 inches. This ensures enough room between the sides of the box once all the parts are assembled. Also, make sure that the widths of both the long and shortboards are equal.
That means that the distance across the top edge of the front piece, which has the dimension of 2xL inches, must be exactly half the size of the back piece. Make another pair of boards measuring 4XW inches. These will serve as the lid and bottom panels of our storage box. Finally, cut three more boards measuring 8XW inches. These are used to create shelves inside the box.
Step 2: Assemble Wooden Parts
When assembling the wooden components, remember to use only flat surfaces. Glue them together according to their measurements. Once finished, let the glued joints dry overnight before moving onto step number 3.
Step 3: Paint Your Boxes
Once the gluing process is complete, apply a coat of primer followed by several coats of white paint. Let the painted boxes sit for 24 hours after painting before proceeding further.
Step 4: Add Screw Holes
Screw holes can be added by drilling small pilot holes through the edges of the boards. Use a drill bit slightly larger than the screw head diameter. Drill the holes evenly spaced apart along the entire perimeter of the panels. When adding screws, ensure that they are inserted perpendicular to the surface of the wood. Do not overtighten or overtighten the screws because this could cause damage to the structure.
Step 5: Attach Sides To Top Panel
Attach the sides to the top panel using glue and brads. Brads work better here since they provide additional support while allowing the joint to expand during drying. Ensure that the corners of the sides align perfectly with corresponding corner angles on the top panel. After attaching the sides to the top, allow them to dry completely.
Step 6: Create Shelves Inside Box
Cut the remaining eight boards into smaller lengths of 7 XW inches. Sand the rough edges smoothly. Apply glue to the underside of the shelf boards and attach them to the walls of the box. Allow the assembly to dry for 24 hours before applying any finishing touches.
Tip: If you want to add some decorative details to the outside of your storage box, consider buying precut pieces at an art store instead of trying to carve out designs yourself.
To finish off your project, sand the whole exterior down until it’s nice and smooth. Now give it a good coating of polyurethane varnish to protect against moisture absorption.
And don’t forget to include a label on the door stating what kind of material was used to construct it! It takes about five minutes per gallon of protective spray to cover every square foot of your storage unit.
These are the simple step to build a storage box yourself!