Made at theCO: Personalized Wine Box
There is something so mesmerizing about a computer-motorized machine like the CNC router or the Laser Cutter/Engraver we have in theCO’s makerspace. It might be the super smooth curves or the sheer precision of the cuts, but one thing is for sure: it allows you to make some cool custom pieces! This week we’re featuring a custom piece made by Random Pieces of Wood. We’ll give you a step by step on how Austin Thompson made a personalized wine box for one of his customers.
Materials & Equipment:
Birch Plywood
Inkscape Design Software
CNC Machine
Wood Glue
Corner Clamps
Laser Cutter/Etcher
Step 1: Cut the Box Pieces
Austin starts by importing his design file into a CNC software that allows him to set the depths and speed of the cuts as well as scaling the design to fit his sheet of plywood. From there the CNC goes to work cutting each individual piece that will be used to make the box.
Step 2: Build the Box
Austin manually cuts space for the door covers to slide in and then assembles the box by lining up each piece carefully. He applies wood glue and clamps the box to hold it together firmly while it dries. This will ensure that the box holds up when he adds the wine.
Step 3: Etch Custom Design on Doors
Austin has created a design file in Inkscape that is will be etched onto the doors that he plans to slide into the wine box. This step of the process turns each door cover into a custom work of art. theCO’s laser cutter/etcher is capable of etching and cutting so Austin chooses to etch the tree and words in this design and cut the heart out to act as a handle for sliding the door.
Step 4: Slide Doors In - Add Wine!
And there you have it - add wine and your box is ready to be gifted! Austin’s box has three separate compartments for wine. As the couple celebrates special moments, they can enjoy a bottle of aged wine. This gift is a great keepsake for any couple celebrating their wedding or anniversary. It also makes an excellent birthday or housewarming gift.
The professional quality that you can achieve with the CNC Router and the Laser Cutter/Etcher is unreal and the possibilities are endless. Become a CO:member and come try it out for yourself. To learn more about our makerspace tools and training click here.