Tis’ the season to give that thoughtful gift that you just know your loved one or friends will love. The only problem is that sometimes you might get stuck on the actual gift idea. No worries! I have a super quick and simple gift idea for you (actually three). This DIY wooden gift box can be filled with any goodies to suit your gift receiver. By adding this handmade element, you are saying to the receiver that you cherish them enough to take time.
Pssst…this will not only be done in less than a day, you will get oohs and aahs from those who receive it. It makes it fun to give and fun to make.
DIY TIME
Now, before you blow me off and think to yourself, “nah…I can’t do woodworking”. If you can put toy blocks together, you can build this. The best part is you can make this as fancy or as basic as your skill level dictates. But, don’t be afraid to stretch your boundaries.
TERMS OF USE: If you want to create a gift box, you agree to the following: it cannot be shared or distributed for monetary gain in any way, it may not be modified in any way, and you may not claim the work as your own.
Most important, here’s a diagram of the basic pieces you’ll need:
*post sponsored by HomeRight (see full disclosure)
My design is using heart pine and basic pine as well as a piece of plywood as base. However, you can use any species of wood you want. For costs sake, pine is the most affordable and is better than using all plywood (though plywood can work too). Also, I made a square box. Feel free to make rectangular, or any other shape your skills allow. BONUS: most big box stores will cut the wood for you if you ask, and it’s free.
Tools & Supplies:
- 1 – 9″ square of wood ( I used scrap cabinet-grade ply I had on hand)
- 2 – 3 ½” W x 9″ L boards
- 2 – 3 ½” W x 10 ½” L boards
- 4 – 1 ¾” L x 1 ¾” W feet (optional) These could be basic squares, L-shaped like mine, or leave them off, if you prefer.
- HomeRight Quick Finish Sprayer
- HomeRight Small Spray Shelter
- Wagner Heat Gun (optional, but oh so fun)
- HomeRight Turn Table
- paint or stain of choice
- extras – rope, bin pulls, etc.
- brad nailer (or screws or finish nails)
- 1 ½” brads
- wood glue
- ammonium chloride(optional)
STEP 1
First, decide whether or not you will be using a nailer or screws or nails. If not using a nailer, you will need to pre-drill holes on the bottom edge of your side pieces. This will prevent splitting. Then, we use the wood glue to add a bead to the bottom edge of one of the 9″ boards.
STEP 2
At the same time, make sure you’re on a flat surface and attach the short sides first. I’m using my brad nailer and brads. Next, attach the long sides to the bottom edge and short sides with glue and brads.
STEP 3
At this point, you can call it finished. However, I like to add a little height to my DIY wooden gift boxes. This is when you can add your feet with wood glue only or add brads/screws to make them more secure. Aren’t they cute?
STEP 4
Our box is ready for the next fun step! You can choose paint, stain, or leave it natural. As I mentioned earlier, I have 3 different finishes to show you. Initially, I’ll show you a fun technique using a heat gun. This is when I’ll use the basic pine, knots and all. I heat up my heat gun and use it to lightly burnish the wood.
The heat scorches the grain accenting it. Specifically, I like to focus on the corners and edges for an aged appeal. For added bonus, I wanted to put a bit of typography. In this past project, I demonstrate how to use Ammonium Chloride to create works of art. Check it out…it’s fun!
Simply dissolve 1 T into ¼” cup water. Then, brush on the wood for your own custom design. Use the heat gun to burn the chemical. I choose to use the word “bath”.
In addition, you can use this to stamp on a logo and create wonderful works of art. Plus, I use the heat gun to remove paint, old caulk, and even bend metal.
OPTIONAL STEP 5
It’s at this point you can go crazy with details. For instance, you can also stain. Using the heart pine box and my HomeRight Quick Finish Sprayer along with my Small Spray Shelter and Turn Table. Then, I filled it up with reactive stain and knocked it out in 5 minutes. Really!! See it in action in this video below…
As soon as I’m done, I pop off the canister for a quick clean and now I’m ready for the next DIY wooden gift box.
OPTIONAL STEP 6
Of course, I couldn’t walk away without showing you how to paint a gift box too, right? It’s as simple as filling up the canister with paint (thinned per manufacturer instructions). First, I like to test flow on a piece of scrap or cardboard. Then, I have at it. My first coat is done in 5 minutes. {{happy dance}}
That allows me time to put finishing touches on my other crates while the paint cures. And…I had a little shopping fun. tee hee!
THE REVEALS
Are you ready to see all my DIY wooden gift boxes complete? Here we go! I already gave you a sneak peek of the bath gift box. However, here’s a closer look.
Tucked inside is a set of washcloths, a fun art print, super cozy slippers, and a pouf. I hear my hot bath calling! Who wouldn’t love this? Likewise, you can customize it to a guy too…just sayin’.
Next! This one is a fun one for the kitchen guru or wannabe. Stuffed with kitchen gadgets and goodies that are sure to please any cook. Notice the typography added using my image transfer technique tutorial.
New dishcloths and towels alone are a treat for this mama to 6, let me tell ya! haha. Am I right?
And, finally, we have this CREATE gift box perfect for plenty of family fun. I’m all about art!
Plenty of fun tucked in our gift for everyone of any age. Did you notice my bath box has rope handles and this one has bin pulls? That’s how you can change it up to suit whatever style or purpose you prefer.
Finally, I drop them in a gift basket bag and tie up with a pretty tag and bow. You can find those bags for two for a dollar and in various colors. I’m eager to share these with those who need a lift to spread JOY this holiday season.
GIVEAWAY TIME
With that, HomeRight and I want to help you have your own DIY fun. We are giving away a Quick Finish Sprayer, a Small Spray Shelter, AND a Heat Gun as three separate prizes. Easy entry – just complete the widget below for as many entries as you like. Open to U.S. & Canada residents 18 years of age and older. In addition, winner will be notified by email and will have 24 hours to claim their prize. Also, be sure to check your spam!
In addition, do pin and share my DIY wooden gift box tutorial and ideas. I know there is someone out there looking for a fun last-minute gift idea.
With this in mind, up next this vintage green cutie needs some lovin’. HEAD HERE TO SEE THE AFTER.
To get these DIY tips & tricks in your inbox, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. PLUS, you will get your FREE Furniture Buying Checklist and special discount to my shop. Until next time!
Also, more gift ideas like this DIY wooden gift box:
At the moment I really don’t have anything to tackle. Nor garage to work in and with our cold freezing temperatures, it’s just too cold to do anything until it warms up some.
Would Love to win the small spray shelter.
Thank U 4 this wonderful giveaway opportunity.
I hope you enjoyed the gifts I created. I’m excited to give them! 😀 You will love the shelter or any of the gifts for sure.
I would takle taking the pain off my really old (1800’s) fireplace mantel with the heat gun! It’s a big job, but I think it will look amazing taken down to the origonal wood!
Sounds good. I hope you enjoyed my projects too. 🙂
I always enjoy your creativity in your projects. I would like to spray a couple of small items if I win.
Thank you. Sounds good! 😀
i could paint some cabinets since its cold out and the heat gun get the paint a little hot to scape it better i think sounds good would have to see if it would work
It sure would help. I hope you enjoyed my work shared today too.
Cute gift idea and nice giveaway too!
Thank you. Fun for giving and receiving. I can’t wait to see who wins!
Larissa, these are wonderful gift baskets and someone, 3 someone’s are in for a real treat. Thank you for sharing and thank you for the.chance to win a great prize
I’m so eager to give them and excited to share. My pleasure to bring gifts!
Your projects are always amazing and give me lots of great ideas!
I think the first project I would tackle if I win is to paint a couple of coffee tables I have. I would probably use all of the things from the giveaway!
Thank you. I’m sure you’ll love these prizes. Each offers so many ways to have fun. 😀
What a neat idea to give as gifts. Your tutorials give me the courage to try these projects myself. Thanks for the give aways. I pray you and your family have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. 2020 has been hard and we are all ready for a fresh start in 2021.
I’m happy to hear it, Susie. Many are scared to try, but it is easier than most think. Sending you Christmas hugs!
Between having mini breakdowns, ive been working on making pretty much all my gifts this year with stuff i already have. I just got laid off again and no unemployment . i would be over the moon to win anything! Merry Christmas
I love your gift boxes! Great idea, beautiful finished product. If I win, the spray tent will be awesome as I live in a windy area…there are few days without too much wind to spray paint outdoors. I have several projects waiting for attention 🙂
Thanks!! These are fun to gift. You will definitely love the shelter. One of my faves!
What great gift ideas. Your instructions are specific and make it look easy. Any of the giveaways would be great additions to my arsenal of gadgets. Btw, My husband asked if I wanted to have a necklace made saying #ToolsOverJewels but he was actually just being punny! Humor has kept us together for 26 years.
You keep knocking it out of the park with each new idea! Nice giveaway. Thank you.
Larissa,
Thanks for the easy to follow step by step instructions. You are helping to create a whole lot more DYI-ers with your encouragement and directions. Thanks for sharing.
Great easy gift ideas. The brad nailer is great but really loud. I love the idea of a spray tent.
Thanks! They’re fun to create. I always wear hearing protection, so it doesn’t bother me. Spray tents are essential for me. haha.
All of these are so cute! Great ideas!
Thank you for the smiles, Selene! 😀
Sounds like a good project to make and give as a gift. So many options!
I’m delighted you think so. I like these better than bags because you can continue to use it.
I love your wood gift boxes! It’s much more personal than a gift bag and can be used as decor in your home! Thank you for the opportunity to win this giveaway! Any one of these would give me inspiration to diy one of my many projects!
Awesome to hear! You get what I’m thinking. I’m excited to get these out to y’all!
My house is brick, but the previous owner painted it. It is getting to the point that it needs a fresh coat of paint, but a roller would not work, and I would not want to paint an entire house with a paint brush. The sprayer would be perfect for that.
Yes, painting brick without a sprayer would be a nightmare. I hope you enjoyed the work I shared today too.
Great idea and so cute!
Thank you, Maria! 😀
I would paint the bench I have on my porch, it desperately needs it!
Sounds good. Hope you enjoyed my work I shared today. 🙂
Very creative, useful & thoughtful gift items!
Thank you, Denise. 🙂
Love the boxes and thanks for the detailed plans. I have a dresser that’s been in my garage way to long and I need the sprayer to take care of it.
You’re welcome. Sounds good!
Love your crates and the creativity of personalized gifts! Great tutorial!
Thank you for the genuine smile, Carol. I had fun!
Super cute gift ideas! I would use the sprayer to update a buffet in my dining room!
Thanks! Each of these prizes offer so much. I know you’ll love them.
Love the aged look from the heat gun ! Much safer than an open flame.
Isn’t it fun? I’ve used torches too and have fun with both of them.
The gift boxes are great. Every year our county has a fund raiser to raise money for the county 4-H program.. of course that couldn’t happen this year due to COVID-19. But it will occur next year. I am going to make one or two of these gift baskets to donate. I know they would be popular items for the live auction.. Thanks for the great ideas. And excellent instructions. Also thanks for your generous give away.
Ooh…that’s the spirit, Joanne!! Love your idea.
I love all three! From experience, people really enjoy getting gift baskets. They are so much fun to put together. My favorite is your kitchen creation. Who wouldn’t want to receive that! The possibilities are endless. ?
I hope you can tell I had fun putting them together. I love to see folks faces when they receive one of these. I can’t wait to gift them! 😀
I love your project. I think I would paint my coffee table if I won.
Thanks! I’m excited to who gets what prize. 😀
Larissa, you did it again! Thanx
You bet. 😀
These are so cute! What a great crafty idea ?
My goal is to inspire, so I’m happy if that is achieved. Thanks!!
Love the gift boxes. Great idea!!!
Thank you for the smile, Terri!
You never disappoint! 🙂 Love the crates! Would love that heat gun! Thanks for the chance!
You’re so fun, Erin! 😀 Thank you for the smile.
Super cute idea! Anyone would love getting those as gifts.
I’m super excited to gift them. That’s where all the fun is! 😀
I am a very beginner when it come to DIY woodworking. I think I could handle this up to the little legs, but just before the pandemic I found a bag of tiny porcelain legs that you attach with a screw! Bet I can handle it now. Perfect for filling with crafting items for my grandgirl and Hot Wheel for my grandson.
Sweet SCORE, Michele!! 😀 That will be awesome.
You are always so creative! ❤️ Thanks for the chance to win some goodies!!
You are most welcome, Sandi. Thanks so much!
Love these boxes, the bath one is my favorite. I have been thinking about starting to do some wood work as you inspire me!
You’ve made my day, Lisa! Truly, I think you’ll have a blast with it. 😀
I am always amazed at your creativeness and abilities! praying for your family this holiday season.
That means much, Tracy, on both accounts. Thank you!
Gosh, I don’t know where to start if I had a sprayer! You have inspired me to make so many projects. Really want to be brave and make a headboard bench. Afraid to make the first cut! Gotta ask…. when you notify the winners, does it come from you or the prize name? I’m leery of opening spam mail I don’t recognize , that says “confirmation needed” or what not. Just thought I’d ask. ?
Using the plans to make a box! Thanks!
Now you’re talkin, Kathryn!! 😀
Absolutely love the gift box ideas and the foot stool looks great and gave me the motivation to start on mine,,,Thank you
That’s fun for me to hear, Cathy. Have fun!
Happy Holidays! I love your gift boxes!
I have so many projects to do! Winning these tools would inspire me to tackle them!
You are a kindred spirit, Alicia! 😀
Hi Larissa, another awesome project and a wonderful way to support our veterans. With one building plan you made 3 unique and beautiful crates holding all these goodies, I love them all. Your HomeRight tools were definitely perfect for this project.
I kept asking myself why 3? (like I need one more thing to do…right?) I just couldn’t stop coming up with ideas. haha. Thanks, Kaycee!
Those boxes are a great idea for gifts! I would SO love to have a paint sprayer….I am moving to a new house, and there are projects galore in my new fixer upper! Thanks so much for the giveaway. =)
Thanks!! You will definitely find a use for the sprayer, or any of the tools. 😀
I would tackle my daughters dresser first.
Always such fun projects on your page!
Thank you for saying so , Cindy. 😀
I’m the sloppiest person with a paint brush. I may have better luck with a sprayer, and a tent.