How to Make Cigar Cases

Cigar cases, also known as humidors, are a sophisticated addition to any cigar aficionado's collection. A well-built cigar case is essential to preserve the quality of the cigars inside. The key to making a good cigar case is humidity. Humidity keeps the tobacco fresh by preventing it from drying out--and prevents the cigar's leaves from contracting too much. With the right tools, you can make any standard wooden box into a quality cigar case.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Wooden box
• Hygrometer
• Humidifier
• Spanish cedar panels (no thicker than 3/8 inch)
• Wood glue
• wood clamps
• straight-edge razor
• metal ruler
• pencil

1. Measure and mark the cedar paneling so that it adequately covers all areas of the interior of the box. Measure the area on the bottom of the box after you have mounted the paneling on the sides.

2. Cut the paneling to size using a straight-edge razor and ruler.

3. Secure the cedar paneling to the interior walls of the box. Apply wood glue on both the paneling and the side of the box, as this provides for better adhesion.

4. Hold the paneling in place using the wood clamps. Allow a full day for the panels to dry.

5. Place the humidifier and hygrometer inside the cigar case. These two devices can be placed anywhere in the box, but the best place to put them is on the underside of the lid. Most humidifiers and hygrometers have either a magnetic back or a sticky backing that can adhere to the box. See Resources for websites where you can purchase these devices.

Tips & Warnings

• You can seal the cedar paneling to the sides of the box using a nail gun and pneumatic nails--just make sure the length of the nails doesn't exceed the thickness of the wooden box
• Leave the Spanish cedar unfinished or it will not function properly

Resources

• Purchase Spanish Cedar
• Purchase Hygrometers
• Purchasing Humidifiers