Create a one-of-a-kind gift by upcycling wooden cigar boxes
By Desiree Hajny
Most good cigars come in Spanish cedar boxes, and Spanish cedar is a great wood for carving. So, why not embellish a cigar box with a carving to transform it into a wonderful keepsake box.
When carving the lid of a cigar box, remember that the wood is relatively thin, so plan accordingly. You will not be able to create a deep relief. I suggest making your cuts no deeper than 1/8″ (3mm). Don’t be afraid to use a V-tool or woodburner to add the texture, or add the texture with paint.
You can use almost any relief carving pattern to embellish the box, but I’ve provided a few below. Just center the design on the lid and start carving.
CLICK HERE to download the winter chipmunk scene pattern.
CLICK HERE to download the reindeer scene pattern.
Full how-to instructions and an additional pattern are available in Woodcarving Illustrated Winter 2017 (Issue 81). CLICK HERE to purchase the issue.
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