How to Make a Mini-Helmet Display Case

A display case is a perfect way to show off an item you have been collecting---especially if it is sports memorabilia you want to put on display. One type of display case you can make is a small box with shelves enclosed in Plexiglass to put mini-helmets on display. Even if you have basic woodworking skills, once you determine the dimensions that you need, the assembly of this case will be fairly simple and the finished product will be a nice complement to your collection.

Things You'll Need

• Wood
• Plywood
• Small wood nails
• Small hammer
• Tape measure
• Level
• Some type of table saw, scroll saw or hand saw
• Wood glue, optional
• Grooved edging
• Plexiglass
• Stain

Instructions

1. Select a type of wood you would like to work with, such as oak, cherry or maple.

2. Measure how big you want the display case to be in height, width and depth as well as the number of shelves you want.

3. Cut the wood planks to the specific lengths desired.

4. Nail one side board to the top and base of the display case.

5. Measure out the distance you want between shelves and nail these boards onto the one side as well.

6. Nail the other sideboard into the top, base and shelves of the display case. Make sure all pieces are level.

7. Cut the plywood to meet the length and width of the box you just created.

8. Nail the plywood to the back of the box to add support.

9. If you choose, attach two pieces of grooved edging to the top and the base with wood glue in order to slide in a piece of Plexiglass and protect the items on display.

10. Apply a stain to the wood to protect its surface.

Tips & Warnings

• Depending on what type of mini-helmets are on display inside the case, it's important to make the case big enough for them all. For example, if these are mini-batting helmets, you want to make sure you have enough room to put all 30 teams on display. You want a piece of board that is at least 6 to 8 inches wide to accommodate the helmets. Remember, you need a length of board to fit the height and width of the display case as well as the shelves. So, if the case is a 3-by4 foot box with three 4-foot long shelves, you will need 26 feet of wood. You can purchase four 6-inch by 8-feet boards.