RunnerDuck Projects
This project appeared in our December 12th, 2003 Newsletter.

What a great idea, a gift box that converts into a candle holder after the present is removed. This is a simple project to build and even more fun to give.

Here's what you'll need:

1/2" A1 plywood
1/2" Dowel
Heavy wire for the handle
Finish nails
Glue
Paint
Cut two pieces of plywood 6" X 8".
Cut two pieces of plywood 5" X 8".
Cut one piece of plywood 5" X 5".
On one of the 6" X 8" pieces cut out a pattern.


We used a Christmas tree but you could do a snowman, holly or any other pattern you like. Here is the pattern for our pine tree.


Click on the picture for a full size pattern

Drill some holes near the top of the two 5" X 8" sides. We evenly spaced (4) 1/2" holes 3/4" down and (3) holes 1 1/2" down.
Butt join the front and back to the sides. Glue and nail each edge.
You may want to measure the opening in the bottom for the best fit but it should be about 5" X 5". Glue and nail the bottom in place.
Drill a small hole centered near the top on each side for the handle.
Fill the nail holes with wood putty. Sand the box smooth and paint.
Once the paint has dried you can sand it lightly to give it a distressed look, or not.
For the handle cut a 5" piece of 1/2" dowel.
Cut wire to suit you and wrap it around each end of the dowel.
Thread the wire through the holes in the box from the inside out.
Twist the ends to keep the from pulling out.

That's it, now wrap up a nice present in tissue and put it in the box. You can include a candle so it will be ready to go once the present is removed. Not only will this light up the eyes of the recipient but it will light up their house as well.

We hope you've enjoyed this project and have good success with it. Remember, if you ever have any problems with our projects just drop us a line and we'll try to help. Since we build every one of these projects we have a pretty good idea of how to get through them. We also make lots of mistakes so we can help you avoid them.

For a great selection of woodworking supplies and tools check out Rockler, Great Prices/Great Selection!



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