62+ Blanket Chest

mleggett.com

Introduction: Building Your Own Blanket Chest

A blanket chest, also known as a hope chest or cedar chest, is a beautiful and functional piece of furniture. It's a perfect storage solution for blankets, linens, or even out-of-season clothing. Building your own allows you to customize the size, style, and wood to perfectly match your home. This guide will take you through the step-by-step process of creating a simple but elegant blanket chest.

Step 1: Planning and Design

Before you even pick up a piece of wood, careful planning is crucial.

Determine the Dimensions: Consider where you'll place the chest and what you'll be storing inside. Measure the available space and decide on the ideal length, width, and height.

Choose Your Wood: Pine is a budget-friendly option, while hardwoods like oak, maple, or cherry offer greater durability and aesthetic appeal. Cedar is a popular choice for lining the interior due to its insect-repelling properties.

Create a Sketch or Detailed Plan: A detailed drawing or even a 3D model will help you visualize the finished product and accurately calculate the amount of lumber you'll need. Include measurements for all parts: the base, sides, top, and any decorative elements.

Hardware Selection: Decide on the type of hinges, latch, and any other hardware you want to use. Consider soft-close hinges for added safety and a more luxurious feel.

Step 2: Gathering Materials and Tools

Once you have a plan, gather your materials and tools.

Lumber: Purchase the necessary lumber based on your dimensions and design. It's often helpful to buy a bit extra to account for mistakes or variations in the wood.

Fasteners: You'll need wood screws, nails, and wood glue to assemble the chest.

Finishing Supplies: Sandpaper (various grits), wood stain or paint, polyurethane or varnish, and applicators (brushes, rags).

Tools: Table saw or circular saw, miter saw (optional), drill, screwdriver, sander, measuring tape, pencil, clamps, safety glasses, and hearing protection.

Step 3: Cutting the Wood

Carefully cut all the pieces according to your plan. Precision is key for a well-fitting and sturdy chest.

Base: Cut the pieces for the base frame, ensuring they are square.

Sides, Front, and Back: Cut these panels to the correct height and length.

Top: Cut the top panel, usually slightly larger than the chest's footprint to create an overhang.

Internal Supports (Optional): If you're planning to store heavy items, consider adding internal supports along the bottom or sides.

Step 4: Assembling the Chest

Assemble the chest piece by piece, ensuring each connection is strong and square.

Base Assembly: Assemble the base frame using wood glue and screws. Clamping the corners ensures a tight fit while the glue dries.

Attaching the Sides, Front, and Back: Attach these panels to the base frame using wood glue and screws. Pre-drilling pilot holes prevents the wood from splitting. Use clamps to hold the panels in place while the glue sets.

Checking for Square: Regularly check that the chest is square during assembly. Use a square tool to verify that the corners are 90 degrees.

Step 5: Adding the Top

Attaching the top securely and ensuring a smooth operation.

Hinge Placement: Mark the position for the hinges on both the top and the back panel of the chest.

Installing the Hinges: Install the hinges using screws, ensuring they are aligned correctly.

Attaching the Top: Carefully position the top and attach it to the hinges. Test the lid's movement, making sure it opens and closes smoothly.

Step 6: Sanding and Finishing

A smooth finish enhances the beauty and protects the wood.

Sanding: Sand all surfaces thoroughly, starting with a coarser grit sandpaper and gradually moving to finer grits. Pay attention to edges and corners, rounding them slightly for a more comfortable feel.

Staining or Painting: Apply your chosen stain or paint according to the manufacturer's instructions. Multiple thin coats are usually better than one thick coat. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Applying a Protective Finish: Apply a clear coat of polyurethane or varnish to protect the wood from scratches, moisture, and wear. Follow the same process as staining or painting, applying multiple thin coats and allowing each coat to dry completely.

Installing Hardware: Install the latch and any other hardware you selected.

Step 7: Optional Cedar Lining

If you chose to use cedar, line the inside to protect contents.

Cut the Cedar: Measure and cut the cedar boards to fit the interior of the chest.

Install the Cedar: Attach the cedar boards to the interior of the chest using wood glue and brad nails.

Conclusion: Your Finished Blanket Chest

Congratulations! You've successfully built your own blanket chest. Admire your handiwork and enjoy the functional storage space it provides. With a little care and attention, your blanket chest will be a cherished heirloom for generations to come. Remember to regularly inspect the hinges and latch to ensure they are functioning properly.

Blanket Chest

mleggett.com

Blanket Chest

clore.furniture

Blanket Chest

clore.furniture