How to Make a Money Box You Can’t Open
Creating a money box that is impossible to open can be a fun and creative project. Whether you’re looking to save money for a special occasion or simply want to add a touch of whimsy to your home, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.
Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather the following materials:
- Wooden box or container (preferably with a lid)
- Saw (hand saw or power saw)
- Screwdriver
- Wood glue
- Wooden dowels or screws
- Wooden blocks or pieces for reinforcement
- Wood stain or paint (optional)
Step 1: Choose Your Box
Select a wooden box or container that you’d like to use as your money box. Ensure that the box has a lid that fits securely. If the box is too large or too small, you can adjust the size by sawing off the excess wood.
Step 2: Plan Your Lock Mechanism
Decide on the type of lock mechanism you want to use. You can opt for a simple dowel pin lock or a more complex combination lock. For a dowel pin lock, you’ll need to create a slot in the lid and a matching hole in the box body. For a combination lock, you’ll need to purchase a lock and install it securely.
Step 3: Create the Lock Mechanism
Dowel Pin Lock:
- Using a saw, cut a slot in the lid of the box. The slot should be wide enough to fit a wooden dowel pin.
- Drill a matching hole in the box body, just below the slot. The hole should be slightly larger than the diameter of the dowel pin.
- Insert the dowel pin into the hole and secure it with wood glue.
- Attach a wooden block or piece to the lid, so that it covers the slot when the lid is closed. This will prevent the dowel pin from being removed.
Combination Lock:
- Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the combination lock on the box. This may involve drilling holes and securing the lock with screws.
- Ensure that the lock is securely fastened and cannot be easily removed.
Step 4: Reinforce the Box
Once the lock mechanism is in place, reinforce the box to prevent it from being easily opened. You can do this by adding wooden blocks or pieces to the inside of the box, especially around the lock mechanism. Use wood glue and screws to secure the reinforcement in place.
Step 5: Stain or Paint the Box (Optional)
If you’d like to give your money box a personal touch, you can stain or paint it. Choose a color that matches your decor or reflects your personality. Allow the stain or paint to dry completely before using the box.
Step 6: Test the Lock Mechanism
Before using the money box, test the lock mechanism to ensure that it works properly. Try to open the box using different methods to make sure that it is secure. If the lock mechanism is not working as expected, adjust the dowel pin or combination lock accordingly.
Step 7: Fill the Money Box
Now that your money box is complete, it’s time to fill it with your savings. Place your coins and bills inside the box, making sure to close the lid securely. You can now enjoy the satisfaction of knowing that your money is safe and sound, and that it will be difficult for anyone else to access it.
Creating a money box that you can’t open is a rewarding project that can help you save money and add a unique touch to your home. With a bit of creativity and some basic tools, you can make a money box that is both functional and visually appealing.
