I'm trying to box in a basement post using 1 x 6 boards, but I'm struggling with how to do it without leaving screwholes or creating a huge mess. I can build three sides in my garage and finish them with glue and stain, but when it comes time to wrap it around the post and attach the last board, I either have to screw it (which I want to avoid) or use glue — and that's a dilemma. Gluing is tricky because the box is six feet tall and will need clamps, which could lead to resanding to even things out, making cleanup a challenge in my finished basement. Any advice on how to tackle this without having visible screws or turning my space into a disaster zone?
3 Answers
One option is to set screws into the wood and then use dowels to cover them. This way, you can flush cut the dowels to make everything look seamless. It also helps with alignment, which can prevent those awkward uneven edges when assembling everything as you go.
You might just need to experiment with stains — sometimes it takes a few tries to get it looking just right.
If you do everything in your shop first and then bring it all together at the post, that can minimize mess. You could glue the box together elsewhere, finish it, and then place it around the post. Running some packing tape down the edge works as a hinge, and you could use a stretchy wrap for clamping while it sets up.
That sounds smart, but what if the edges don't align perfectly? Could be tricky to get it all neat.
Yeah, I get that. Would mitered joints work better in this case?
Using finish nails could be a game-changer. They're small enough not to be noticeable, and you can give a little dab of glue to minimize any mess. If you want extra stability, using a bit of glue along with finish nails can help it hold together better in case things shift over time. If you're concerned about aesthetics, just sink the nails a bit and cover them with wood filler, then add some stain to blend everything in nicely.
That's a neat idea! Dovetail work would also look great if you're up for it.
I was worried that finish nails wouldn't hold, but you've got me thinking it's worth a shot!
Good point about dowels for alignment! Just worried about staining them right. Haven't had great luck matching the wood grain.