Ice box project keeps tradition fresh

Tue., Dec. 12, 2006

Don and Dave Runyan U-Bild

There was a time when an oak ice box like this one could be found in almost every kitchen. Although modern refrigerators made them obsolete years ago, antique ice boxes still remain popular – this time with collectors rather than homemakers.

This do-it-yourself version is a handsome and affordable alternative to an increasingly rare and expensive antique. An authentic reproduction, the project is at home in almost any room of the house. The project is especially popular for use as a bar: the top opens up to reveal a convenient storage and serving area, while the lower cabinet features two compartments perfect for glassware and other fragile items.

The ice box requires about 40 board feet of oak, a 4-by-4 sheet of oak plywood, dowels, nails, glue, stain and brass hardware. The project calls for all straight cuts of lumber and basic construction techniques, so it’s easy enough for woodworkers of almost any skill level.

The finished ice box is 38 inches high by 24 inches wide by 16 inches deep.

The Ice Box plan, No. 686, is $9.95 and includes complete step-by-step directions with photos, construction diagrams, a shopping list and cutting schedule and a toll-free help line for project questions. A mail-order source for solid brass hardware is also included with the plan.

A package of three ice box plans, No. C58, is $21.95 and includes this two-door ice box as well as one- and three-door designs. A catalog picturing hundreds of do-it-yourself projects is $2. Please include $4 for postage and handling (except catalog-only orders) and allow about two weeks for delivery.

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