Build Your Own Humidor: Introduction
If you’re a cigar aficionado, you know how important it is to store your cigars properly. And what better way to do that than in a humidor that you built yourself? Not only is building a humidor a great woodworking project, but you’ll also end up with a unique and personalized storage solution for your cigars. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll take a look at humidor woodworking kits and how you can build your own humidor from scratch.
Humidor Woodworking Kits: What Are They?
Before we dive into the details of building your own humidor, let’s take a look at what humidor woodworking kits are. Humidor woodworking kits are kits that provide you with all the materials you need to build a humidor from scratch. These kits typically include everything from the wood for the box to the hygrometer and humidification system. Some kits may even come with instructions on how to assemble the pieces, making it easy for beginners to build their own humidor.
Humidor Woodworking Kits: What to Look For
When choosing a humidor woodworking kit, there are a few things you’ll want to look for. Firstly, the kit should come with all the materials needed to build the humidor. This means the wood for the box, the lid, and any interior shelves or dividers. Secondly, the kit should include all the necessary hardware, such as the hinges and latch. Finally, the kit should include a hygrometer and humidification system, as these are essential for proper cigar storage.
Building Your Humidor: Step-by-Step
Once you have your humidor woodworking kit, it’s time to start building. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you along the way:
Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace
Before you begin building your humidor, you’ll need to prepare your workspace. This means clearing a flat and level surface to work on, and gathering all the necessary tools you’ll need to assemble the kit. Some of the tools you’ll need include a saw, sandpaper, a drill, and a screwdriver.
Step 2: Assemble the Box
Next, you’ll need to assemble the box of your humidor. This typically involves cutting the wood to size and then gluing, nailing, or screwing the sides, top, and bottom together. Depending on your woodworking kit, you may also need to add interior shelves or dividers at this stage.
Step 3: Sand and Finish the Box
Once the box is assembled, you’ll need to sand and finish the wood. This involves smoothing out any rough edges or surfaces with sandpaper, and then applying a protective coat of finish or varnish. The finish not only protects the wood from moisture, but it also adds a beautiful shine to the finished product.
Step 4: Install the Hardware
With the box assembled and finished, it’s time to install the hardware. This typically involves attaching the hinges and latch to the lid, as well as attaching the hygrometer and humidification system to the interior of the box. Follow the instructions provided in your kit to ensure proper installation.
Step 5: Test for Proper Humidity
Once your humidor is assembled and all the hardware is installed, it’s time to test for proper humidity. Add a humidifying agent, such as distilled water or propylene glycol solution, to the humidifier and hygrometer system, and then monitor the humidity levels over a period of several days. You’ll want to aim for a relative humidity of around 70% for ideal cigar storage.
Conclusion
Building your own humidor from a woodworking kit is a great way to start your woodworking journey, while also ending up with a unique and personalized cigar storage solution. Just remember to choose a high-quality woodworking kit, prepare your workspace properly, and follow the step-by-step instructions carefully. With a little patience and attention to detail, you’ll have a beautiful humidor to store and enjoy your cigars for years to come.