Lacquered Agate Box

I love making things that are lovelier than something I’d purchase.  That is the whole point of DIY no?  For me, it’s either got to be less expensive or more cute.  If it isn’t either of those things, it really isn’t worth the effort. This agate lacquered box is both… prettier than what I would buy and way less expensive.  Would you believe me if I told you that the how project cost less than $20? Believe it.

I will confess, I had this box two other colors before I landed on a light ivory/beige called Light Sand.  I am really really trying to branch out from a color perspective.  First I had it light lavender, but that felt a little stuffy, so I went to a radiant orchid (the color of the year, right?) but that just seemed a little out of control for me.  You guys know me… I’m a black/brown/white/navy/gold kind of girl.  So, I just thought I’d let you know that I tired really hard, but couldn’t do it.  Light Sand it is.  I am beginning to embrace my neutralness.

  

I’m in love with the way it turned out and cannot wait to show you all how to make your own! Although there are a few steps, they’re all totally easy and can be done by anyone.  Shall we get on with the tutorial? 

  

Materials:

• Wooden Box
• Piece of Balsa Wood (1/16″ thick by 4″ wide)
• Wood Glue
• Wood Filler
• Drill – this is the one I use (or hammer and nail)
• Spray Paint (color of your choice)
• Agate Drawer Pull

 

After removing the hardware, fill up the holes with wood filler and let it dry before sanding smooth.  Since your box won’t have hinges, it needs another way for the lid to stay on.  I chose to make an inner lip that holds the lid on out of thin balsa wood.  Since this 1/16th inch thick wood cuts with scissors, it’s so easy to work with.

Cut the balsa strips so that they’re the perfect size to fit snugly into the inner sides of the box, then glue them into place using wood glue.  While they’re drying, drill a whole into the center of the lid for the drawer pull to fit through. If you don’t have a drill, you can use a hammer and a nail.  If you are interested in getting a drill, this one is my favorite.  It’s very light and auto stops when a screw is tight.

After the holes are filled, drilled, and the lining is dry, paint your box inside and out. When the paint is dry, fix your knob into place.  If the ‘stem’ of the knob is too long, cut it off with a strong pair of wire cutters or a dremel.

 

So, I actually purchased a $5 box, a $1 piece of Balsa, and a $14 knob leading me to the grand total of $20.  I had the paint, wood filler, glue, etc on hand, but if you didn’t, the whole thing might still just cost $30.  Regardless, it’s a statement piece that will totally make it’s way into my next styling video!

It’s both a great deal and gorgeous! How soon will you make one?