Introduction: Stackable Wood Pumpkins
This is a simple project made from some scrap wood I had laying around. As shown in the pictures, the pumpkin boxes can be spaced side by side or stacked vertically on a porch, mantle or table. In addition, the group can be stacked inside one another for easy storage. Since they are made from wood, I recommend LED Tea lights versus a candle for the illumination.
Video showing how it works:
Step 1: Tools/Materials
Tools:
- Table or Miter Saw
- Drill Press & Bits
- Nail Gun or Hammer
- Sander
- Ruler
- Pen/Pencil
Materials:
- 1x4 x 18 inches
- 1x6 x 30 inches
- 1x8 x 40 inches
- 1x10 x 8 inches
- 1/4” diameter dowel x .75” long
- 3/8” diameter dowel x .75” long
- 1/2” diameter dowel x .75” long
- Nails
- Wood Glue
- Paint or Stain
Step 2: Small Box
You will be building to this drawing. Note that all the parts are color coded for easy reference.
Step 3: Small Box Parts
Make one top (left view) and one bottom (right view) and the four sides to the dimensions shown. I used a drill press for the blind holes. Cut a 1/4" dowel to 3/4".
Step 4: Small Box Face
The face is arbitrary. I chose a simple pattern that represents triangle eyes/nose. After my previous design, I was asked to make a "happier" pumpkin.
I used a pencil to mark off the locations and a drill press to make the holes. Note that the face is centered on the box when built to these instructions.
Step 5: Assembly - Step 1
Attach face to side as shown. Note the orientation. With all connections, I used glue and nails.
Step 6: Assembly - Step 2
Add next side as shown.
Step 7: Assembly - Step 3
Add last side as shown.
Step 8: Assembly - Step 4
Add the bottom as shown. It should be flush with the sides.
Step 9: Assembly - Step 5
Add dowel pin into hole on top piece. Position it so the 3/8" is sticking out the top.
Step 10: Assembly - Step 6
Add top to box. Optional steps:
- Add hinge to lid.
- Add alignment pins/blocks so lid doesn't slide off.
Step 11: Medium Box
The design is the same as the small box. Follow directions above and the dimensions shown on this step.
Step 12: Large Box
The design is the same as the small box. Follow directions above and the dimensions shown on this step.
Step 13: Stackable Design
The blind hole in the bottom of the small and medium boxes allows the the pumpkins to be stacked. See cross-sectional view for clearances.
Step 14: Compact Storage
The pumpkins are designed to stack inside one another for easy storage. The cross-section view shows the clearance around all of the parts.
Step 15: Final CAD Model
I've included the actual drawing file for those that don't need instructions.
Attachments
Step 16: Paint
The boxes were painted with "pumpkin orange" craft paint. The stems were painted green. For a more rustic look, see my other pumpkin.