How to Refresh an Old Cigar Box
We’re sharing how to refresh an old cigar box as we team up with some of our favorite creative ladies for the Handcrafted Society Blog Hop today!
This month, our theme is leather and lace.
Just for the sake of full disclosure, my original idea for this project was a total fail.
But that’s kind of my favorite part about these blog hops.
They challenge you to get creative.
So, with my first project a bust, and my second idea delayed due to shipping issues, I started searching our garage for a backup idea.
During my search I found an old cigar box and knew immediately I could give it a fresh new feel.
Truthfully, this idea is so simple it almost doesn’t need a tutorial.
But I know they’re always helpful.
Here’s a look at how to refresh an old cigar box.
How to Refresh an Old Cigar Box…
Cigar Box Supplies
- Cigar Box
- Fine Grit Sandpaper
- Leather Polish
- Lint Free Cloth
- Gloves
- Measuring Tape
- Piece of Leather
- Scissors
- E6000 Adhesive Glue
- Tarp
Steps
Gather your supplies and lay a tarp or covering down to protect your worksurface.
Gently sand the entire cigar box using a fine grit sandpaper.
We used 220-grit.
Then wipe or brush off any sanding dust.
Next, use a lint free cloth to apply the leather polish directly to the cigar box.
Keep in mind leather polish may stain so you’ll want to wear gloves when you do this part.
I had a hard time taking the pictures with gloves on which is why I’m not wearing them in these photos.
After you’ve applied leather polish to the box, allow it to dry completely.
Then take a second cloth and wipe off any excess stain.
As you’re waiting for the stain to dry, cut your piece of leather to size.
We found this textured piece of dragon inspired leather at Michaels.
It came in a 8.5×11 inch sheet.
Once you’ve cut your piece of leather to size, use a glue adhesive to secure it to the inside of the cigar box.
We used E6000 which has an offensive smell in my opinion.
So, you’ll definitely want to read the E6000 instructions and do this portion of the project outside.
Another tip is to work in small sections.
After the glue has completely dried, you’re ready to go.
You can use your refreshed cigar box to hold stationery or treasured letters, jewelry, or use it on bookcases, coffee tables or part of a fabulous vignette.
In addition, you can fill old cigar boxes like these with gifts for any occasion!
Up Next on the Handcrafted Society Blog Hop…
Be sure to check out what the rest of the fabulous ladies for the handcrafted society are sharing today.
Many blessings,
CoCo
I love this, CoCo! It’s not hard, and it looks so good. What a great gift idea! Thank you!
Love it CoCo. E6000 does have a terrible smell. I avoid using it but I know it’s perfect for certain projects.
I can’t believe another hurricane is coming. I’m praying for everyone in its path.
Stay safe. I’ll be checking on you again. You guys need a break.
Hugs
Cindy
That is adorable!
Coco- This is such an elegant project with so many useful applications. Love the leather you selected for the interior. Stay safe my friend. Thinking of you and your family as Milton approaches.
So cool CoCo! I am definitely going to have to keep my eyes open for an old cigar box now. The leather inside really makes it! And I bet it makes it smell good too!
Hi, friend!
I LOVE old cigar boxes…mainly for using as risers in vignettes and such. Yours turned out totally chic with the addition of that leather!!
Hope you are hanging in there…my thoughts and prayers are with all of Florida as Milton is headed ashore.
I need this sitting on my of my DIY desk pad! It is so beautiful! I love the stain color and the leather is gorgeous inside. I think I almost always have a “fail project” before I come up with one that works. I guess that is the joy of creating! Well done! Pinned!
Love this! It’s so handsome and functional too. I love working with boxes. Take care CoCo during this next storm! sending prayers!
Coco
This is so cute. I’m so glad you and your family are safe and that Hurricane Milton spares Florida. So much devastation, enough already! Praying for healing to all affected by the devastation!
I loved reading your story, CoCo! It truly captures the reality of how life goes sometimes. I can definitely relate—I had my own struggles with this project, and I know others did, too. Your cigar box turned out beautiful and was such a clever idea! I’m sure it will get plenty of use now instead of just sitting in the garage.
What a great piece CoCo! The leather adds a touch of old-world to this cigar box. Love the idea of keeping stationary in it!
That’s one good looking cigar box and would make such a handsome gift! The leather insert is just brilliant! Pinning for inspiration! On a more serious note with the anticipation of the approaching storm, I hope you are in a safe place! Hugs sweet friend!
Glad to know I’m not the only one who has failed while DIYing! Love how you pivoted and madeover an old cigar box. The faux leather is the perfect lining to use inside! This is great for storage or to give as a gift! Hugs to you!
I love this idea, CoCo! It’s such a classic addition to a desk, and what a great idea for a gift!
What a beautiful way to upcycle a cigar box, Coco! Yours turned out so beautifully. If I made one, it would be used for stationery. Thanks for the inspo.
Oh CoCo, I have an affinity for cigar boxes, so you had my attention right away. I love how simple this project is, and yet carries a big impact. I would not have thought to use leather polish on wood, thanks for the tip! I have a project in mind and I need to pick some up, but I didn’t want to only use it for one project. The leather you added is just perfect with that masculine look I seem to love. Hope you and your family are doing well.