Hide that plain cardboard tissue box in style with this elegant wooden slatted tissue box cover. Perfect for living rooms, bedrooms, or bathrooms, this functional cover adds natural texture and subtle sophistication while keeping tissues easily accessible.
Introduction
Tissue boxes are a necessity, but they don’t have to be an eyesore. This wooden slatted tissue box cover reimagines the everyday essential as a piece of understated design. With carefully spaced slats and a clean, minimalist form, it blends seamlessly into your home, letting you focus on the beauty of wood, not the packaging beneath.
Why You’ll Love This Project
๐งป Discreetly Functional – Conceals the box while allowing easy tissue access.
๐ชต Natural & Lightweight – Adds warmth without bulk.
๐จ Beginner-Friendly Build – Straightforward cuts, simple assembly.
๐จ Customizable Look – Stain, paint, or leave natural to match your room.
๐ A Practical Gift – Perfect for housewarmings, weddings, or anyone who appreciates thoughtful details.
Materials & Tools
Wood: ¼” thick wood strips (pine, basswood, or birch), or ½” x ½” square stock.
Base Plate: ¼” plywood or hardboard for the bottom.
Saw: Miter saw or table saw for consistent slat widths.
Sandpaper (120–220 grit).
Wood Glue & Clamps.
Finish: Clear sealant, stain, or paint.
Optional: Small magnets or a sliding panel for easy box replacement.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Choose Your Design
Decide on the shape:
Rectangular (fits standard square tissue boxes)
Tapered (wider at the base, narrower at the top for a modern look)
Rounded (soft curves on the sides)
Measure your tissue box: standard sizes are roughly 4.5” x 4.5” x 9.5” tall.
2. Cut the Slats and Frame
Cut four vertical corner posts to the height of your tissue box + ¼”.
Cut horizontal top and bottom rails to form a square frame that fits around the box with slight clearance (about ⅛”–¼” gap on each side).
Cut slats to fit between the top and bottom rails.
3. Assemble the Frame
Glue and clamp the corner posts to the top and bottom rails, forming a square or rectangular frame.
Ensure the frame is square by checking diagonals.
4. Attach the Slats
Working from the bottom up, glue slats to the rails, leaving consistent gaps (about ½”–¾”) between each slat for tissue access.
Use spacers (like coins or wood scraps) to maintain even gaps.
Clamp until glue sets.
5. Add the Bottom Plate
Cut a plywood or hardboard base to fit inside the frame.
Attach with small screws or glue, leaving it removable if you want to swap boxes easily.
6. Sand for Smoothness
Sand all surfaces, especially the edges of slats and corners.
Round over any sharp edges for a comfortable feel.
7. Apply Your Finish
For a natural look, use a clear matte polyurethane or danish oil.
For color, paint with acrylic or milk paint, then seal.
Consider leaving the interior unfinished for easier cleaning.
8. Insert the Tissue Box
Place your tissue box inside, aligning the tissue slot with the gaps between slats.
Pull a tissue through to test—adjust slat spacing if needed.
Creative Variations
Magnetic Lid: Add a hinged or lift-off top for even easier box replacement.
Two-Tone Design: Stain the frame dark and slats light, or vice versa.
Herringbone Slats: Arrange thin slats in a chevron pattern for visual interest.
Hidden Drawer: Include a small pull-out drawer in the base for spare packets of tissues.
Personalized Engraving: Laser-etch a monogram, family name, or simple pattern on the side.
Pro-Tips for Success
Test Fit Frequently: Dry-assemble around your tissue box to ensure a snug but not tight fit.
Consistent Gaps Are Key: Use a spacer block when attaching slats to keep gaps even.
Wood Choice: Lightweight woods like pine or basswood are easy to work with and keep the cover from feeling too heavy.
Ventilation: Ensure enough gap between slats for air circulation (helps prevent dust buildup).
Conclusion
This wooden slatted tissue box cover is a small upgrade that makes a big difference in daily living. It’s the kind of thoughtful, handmade touch that turns an ordinary object into a quiet statement of craft and care.






