How to Refurbish a Small Old Jewelry Box

Jewelry boxes, even small ones, can cost quite a bit. So if you're planning to a buy a new one to store your jewelry then may I suggest you a cheap way to obtain a beautiful jewelry box? And that's by refurbishing an old jewelry box you may buy from a thrift store. You can also ask your relatives, your mother or sister if she has an old jewelry box that you can work with.

If you already have the old jewelry box in your hand, then let’s start with the procedure of how you can refurbished your old jewelry box into a new one. This procedure works well with wooden jewelry boxes.

• Step 1

Before beginning any refurbishing project that involves chemicals and/or paint, set up a work area in a well-ventilated area and cover the work area with a drop cloth to protect any flooring.

• Step 2

Remove any glass panels (if possible) from the jewelry box and clean the glass with simple glass or window cleaner. If there is any sticky residue from old tape or a purchase sticker, spray a concentrated amount of glass cleaner on the area and let it sit for little bit or use a residue remover.

• Step 3

Remove any liners or fabric from inside the jewelry box.  If the liner is glued to the jewelry box, do not remove the liner unless you want to replace it. If there are any stains in the liner, spot clean it with concentrated laundry soap and let dry.

• Step 4

Wipe down the inside and outside of the jewelry box with a solution of dish or laundry soap and water or vinegar and water if there are any musty or mildew odors. Leave the jewelry box open to air dry.

• Step 5

If the jewelry box has any hinges or other hardware, remove them and set them aside if they need cleaned, repaired or refurbished, or leave them as is if you want to paint them the same color as the jewelry box.

• Step 6

If the jewelry box has a lot of detailed carvings or grooves in the wood, use liquid sandpaper/deglosser to get into the cracks and crevices. Otherwise, use a combination of low and medium grit sandpaper to remove any existing paint or gloss and to smooth the surface. After sanding, wipe off the jewelry box with a damp rag to remove any sanding dust.

• Step 7

Before painting, cover any areas of the jewelry box, such as the inside of the jewelry box or any non-removable glass, with paper and painter's tape. Select a color to paint the jewelry box but makes sure to first apply a primer. After the primer dries, apply the paint. Remember, apply the primer and paint in thin even coats to prevent runs. Let the paint completely dry and put additional embellishments or details as you wish.