Step 5: Fill and sand the box

Fill and sand the box
Photo: Wendell T. Webber
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Using a hammer and nailset, sink all the finish nails on the sides just below the surface of the wood. Then, using a putty knife, fill the holes with putty. Let the putty dry, and wait a few minutes for the glue to set as well.

Using a random-orbit sander with 120-grit sandpaper, smooth the plywood sides of the cubby to prepare them for finish. Kids can help with sanding—just make sure a parent watches, because the sander moves a lot when it vibrates.
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    Tools List

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    • 30-foot tape measure
      Tape measure
    • straight edge
      Straightedge ruler
    • jigsaw
      Jigsaw, circular saw, or handsaw
    • safety glasses
      Safety glasses
    • random orbit sander
      Random-orbit sander or sanding block
    • bar clamps
      Bar clamps
    • hammer with nailset
      Hammer and nailset
    • putty knife
      Putty knife
    • paintbrush
      2-inch paintbrush
    • Artist's Brush
      Artist's brush
    • staple gun
      Staple gun
    • drill
      Drill/driver fitted with 1/16-inch drill bits
    • Phillips screwdriver
      Screwdriver

    Shopping List

    Close
    1. One quarter-sheet of ½-inch birch-veneer plywood

    2. One quarter-sheet of luaun or ¼-inch plywood

    3. 4d finish nails

    4. 1-inch box nails

    5. 120-grit sandpaper

    6. Stainable wood glue

    7. Stainable wood putty     8. Clear acrylic finish or latex paint

    9. Acrylic artist’s paint

    10. ½ yard of fabric

    11. ¼-inch staples

    12. ¼-inch staples

    13. 2-inch screws with corresponding washers and wall anchors

    14. Velcro tape