How To Build an "Antique" Wood Box

A while back I posted about how I built a wood box and fell in love with it.  Well ever since I have wanted to build another one and post a how to.  Not too difficult of a project but I love the end result. 



I love anything old and beat up and even though this box isn't old with a little paint and distressing it sure looks like it is.  Plus it's a great way to use up wood scraps since I have a problem throwing them out. 

Here's how I do it. 

I decide the size I want based on whatever wood scraps I have lying around and the space I plan to put it.  This one is 18" wide x 9 3/4" deep x 6 1/2 tall. I used a 1 x 3 and 1 x 8 for the top. 


For the box I used 1 x 6's two cut at 18" and two cut at 8.25" Then secure with wood glue and nails.  I use a nail gun because I have one, but you don't need one.


Make sure its square and attach a piece of 1/4" plywood to bottom with glue and nails.


For the top I attached the 1 x 3 to the box with glue and nails. Then attach the 1 x 8 to the 1 x 3 with hinges.   



I added a latch and hammered some copper nails into the front for some interest.  Then the fun part.  I beat up the box with a hammer and my favorite distressing tool.



It's basically a board with nails sticking out of it.  It leaves little holes that look like worm holes to me. 


Then I painted with an oops paint color I had.  The can says the color is Sherwin Williams Outer Space.  After it dried I sanded...


Then I wiped on a dark stain to age.


I wanted to personalize it so I used some stencils I got from Walmart for around $3.



I also dry brushed with the same white paint.  When that dried I sanded it again.  See the worm holes?



1975 may or may not be the year someone people around here were born....




It's perfect for the built-in cabinets I built.  Great for storing things like the dog's leash and collar since it's by the back door. I plan to make another one in a different style and color for the other cubby when I get around to it. 

So whatcha think? 


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Mimi@blueroofcabinDIY, coastal cabin, distressing, glazed finish36 Comments