Jewelry Box Building

Building a Wooden Jewelry Box

Jewelry boxes showcase precision woodworking skills while creating functional art. The combination of small scale, fine details, and often special wood makes these projects rewarding challenges. A well-made jewelry box becomes an heirloom passed down through generations.

Design Considerations

• Size: Typical dimensions range from 6″ x 4″ x 3″ (small) to 12″ x 8″ x 6″ (large).
• Interior layout: Plan compartments for rings, necklaces, earrings, and watches.
• Lid style: Hinged (full or partial opening), lift-off, or sliding.
• Lining: Velvet, felt, or suede protects contents and adds luxury.
• Special features: Hidden compartments, mirror in lid, music box movement.

Wood Selection

Choose attractive hardwoods:

• Primary woods: Walnut, cherry, maple, mahogany, or exotic species
• Contrasting accents: Mix light and dark woods for visual interest
• Grain matching: Use sequential cuts so grain flows around the box
• Figured woods: Quilted maple, curly walnut add drama to small surfaces

Basic Box Construction

1. Mill your lumber: Plane to consistent 3/8″ to 1/2″ thickness for sides.
2. Cut box parts: Four sides, bottom panel, lid. Consider grain wrapping.
3. Cut joinery: Miters, box joints, or dovetails connect the corners.
4. Dry fit: Test all joints before gluing.
5. Glue the box: Use band clamps or corner clamps for even pressure.
6. Fit the bottom: Slide into grooves or attach after assembly.
7. Create the lid: Cut from the assembled box for perfect fit, or make separately.
8. Install hinges: Small brass hinges, mortised flush into the wood.
9. Add the lining: Cut velvet or felt slightly oversized, attach with spray adhesive.

Joinery Options

• Miter joints: Clean appearance, requires spline or key reinforcement.
• Box joints: Strong, decorative with contrasting woods.
• Dovetails: Traditional craftsmanship, strongest option.
• Rabbet joints: Simpler construction, less decorative.

Finishing Touches

• Sand to 320+ grit: Small surfaces show imperfections clearly.
• Apply a hand-rubbed finish: Multiple coats of oil or wipe-on poly.
• Install hardware: Quality hinges, clasps, and lid stays.
• Add feet: Small brass or wooden feet protect surfaces.