Making a Sliding Lid Box

Article 135: Making a Sliding Lid Box

By: A Woodworker Who Can’t Stop Making Boxes

This small project uses simple rabbet joints and a routed groove for the lid to slide open. Great for pencils, tools, or tea.

Materials

• ¼" hardwood:

  • (2) sides: 2½" × 10"

  • (2) ends: 2½" × 3"

  • (1) bottom: 3" × 9¾"

  • (1) lid: ⅜" × 3¼" × 10¼"

• Wood glue

Tools Needed

• Table saw or hand saw

• Router with straight and slot-cutting bit

• Clamps

• Sandpaper

Steps

1. Rabbet Ends

   • Cut rabbets on short ends to fit between long sides.

2. Groove for Lid

   • Route a ¼" deep groove ¼" from top of both long sides and one end.

3. Assemble Box

   • Glue up bottom, sides, and ends. Leave lid end open.

4. Shape Lid

   • Plane slightly thinner to slide easily. Add a thumb notch or pull.

5. Finish

   • Sand and oil or shellac for smooth touch.

Sketch – Top View (Lid Removed)

  ____________________
 |                    |
 |   ← sliding lid    |
 |____________________|