How to Build a Flour Box

Whether you use this box for flour or not, you'll find its simple charm and character add charm to any kitchen. Store coffee, dried goods, candy or just about anything else with the easy to create woodworking project; how to build a flour box.

You'll want to purchase some good 3 ½" lumber if you plan on using it to actually store flour or other perishables. Birch, white pine, poplar, oak and fir are all good woods to use around food. Try to stay away from loose strand wood like cedar.

A few basic power tools are all you'll need to start this woodworking project. A few wood clamps, wood glue, table saw and a drill with a 1/8" bit are just a few extra tools you may need.

Begin by cutting two pieces at 3 ½". This will give you to squares. Set these aside and label them "lid" and "bottom".

Cut three more pieces at 6" long and label these "sides". Cut the final piece at 8". This will be both the "lid insert" and the remaining "side" piece.

Now use the table saw to rip down the "lid insert" and "side". Rip cut 1 ½" off of the "lid insert" piece. Use a miter box to cut the lid insert rip off at 1 ½". Cut the remaining piece at 6" and place it with the other pieces labeled "sides". Rip one more 6" side piece at 1 ½" long. Rip the remaining two side pieces at 3" long.

Mark the top of the piece labeled "bottom" with a pencil at ¼" on each corner. These will be the reference point for the side panels. Next glue two side pieces together. Glue the 1 ½" piece to the 3" piece. Repeat the same for the other two side pieces. Now glue the two sections together to form a square.

Once the square has dried, glue it to the bottom piece. While that dries, glue the lid insert to the lid and attach a metal handle. You can buy a complete kit at any home improvement center or hardware store.

Clean off any excess wood glue with a wet sponge or rag. Sand down any rough edges. You can seal the wood using linseed oil and a clean rag. Add a few coats, allowing each one to soak in before applying the next coat. Let it dry for 24 hours before using.