Watch your savings grow through the beautiful geometric windows of this handcrafted wooden lattice coin bank. Featuring an intricate cut-out lattice pattern that reveals the coins inside, this functional art piece transforms the humble piggy bank into a stunning display of craftsmanship and transparency.
Introduction
There's something satisfying about watching coins accumulate—seeing your savings grow one deposit at a time. This wooden lattice coin bank celebrates that experience by offering glimpses of the treasure within through an elegant geometric lattice. Whether placed on a child's dresser to encourage saving or on your own desk as a decorative catch-all, it turns the act of saving into a visual delight.
Why You'll Love This Project
💰 See Your Savings – The lattice window lets you watch coins pile up.
🔷 Geometric Beauty – Intricate cut-out patterns add visual interest even when empty.
🪵 Natural Warmth – Wood grain complements any room's decor.
🔨 Scroll Saw Challenge – Perfect for practicing precision cuts and pattern work.
🎁 A Gift of Good Habits – Ideal for children learning to save, or as a unique housewarming present.
Materials & Tools
Wood: ¼" to ½" birch plywood, basswood, or hardwood (maple, walnut, cherry) for the main body; ⅛" plywood or acrylic for the base.
Saw: Scroll saw with fine blades for intricate lattice cuts; jigsaw for larger cuts.
Sandpaper (120–400 grit; detail sanding tools for tight spaces).
Wood Glue & Clamps.
Coin Slot Hardware: Small hinge (optional), magnetic catch (optional).
Finish: Clear polyurethane, Danish oil, or non-toxic paint.
Optional: Wood burner for added detail; felt for bottom; acrylic sheet for lining.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Design Your Coin Bank
Decide on:
Shape: Cube, rectangle, cylinder, or novelty shape (house, animal, etc.)
Lattice pattern: Geometric (hexagons, diamonds, squares), organic (leaves, vines), or abstract
Size: 4–6" in each dimension works well for standard coins
Access: Removable bottom, hinged lid, or stopper
Sketch your design with exact dimensions for the lattice pattern.
2. Create the Lattice Pattern
Draw your lattice design on paper, ensuring openings are large enough for coins to pass through but small enough to be visually interesting.
For a first project, try a simple grid of squares or diamonds. For advanced work, try hexagons or curved patterns.
3. Cut the Main Panels
Cut four side panels and one top panel from your chosen wood. The bottom will be cut separately.
For a cube design, all sides should be identical in size.
4. Transfer & Cut the Lattice
Transfer your lattice pattern onto the front panel (and sides if desired). Use carbon paper or attach the paper template with spray adhesive.
Using a scroll saw with a fine blade, carefully cut out the lattice openings. Drill starter holes for interior cuts.
Take your time—precision here makes the piece.
5. Cut the Coin Slot
On the top panel, cut a slot large enough for your largest coin (about 1" long for quarters). Sand the edges smooth.
6. Sand All Pieces
Sand each piece thoroughly, paying special attention to the inside edges of lattice cuts—they must be smooth to prevent coins from catching.
Use folded sandpaper or needle files for tight spaces.
7. Create the Bottom/Access Panel
Decide how coins will be retrieved:
Removable bottom: Cut a bottom panel slightly smaller than the opening, attach with small magnets or a friction fit.
Hinged bottom: Attach with a small hinge and magnetic catch.
Stopper: Drill a hole in the bottom and use a cork or wooden plug.
8. Assemble the Sides
Glue the four side panels together, ensuring square corners. Use clamps or masking tape to hold while drying.
Check that the lattice openings align if on multiple sides.
9. Attach the Top
Glue the top panel (with coin slot) to the assembled sides. Ensure it's centered and flush.
10. Install the Bottom/Access
Attach your chosen access method:
For removable bottom: Glue small wooden cleats inside the base for the bottom to rest on.
For hinged bottom: Attach hinge and catch.
For stopper: Drill hole and test fit plug.
11. Apply Finish
Sand the assembled bank lightly, then apply your chosen finish. For children's banks, use non-toxic finishes.
Apply multiple thin coats, allowing drying time between coats.
12. Add Felt (Optional)
Attach felt pads or a felt circle to the bottom to protect surfaces.
13. Start Saving
Drop your first coin through the slot and watch it land inside. Admire how the lattice frames your growing treasure.
Creative Variations
Personalized Name Bank: Incorporate a name or initials into the lattice pattern.
Themed Lattice: Use leaf patterns for nature lovers, stars for dreamers, or hearts for Valentine's gifts.
Two-Tone Design: Use contrasting wood for the lattice inlay (cut lattice from one wood, back with another).
LED Illuminated: Add a small battery-powered LED inside to make the lattice glow.
Child's First Bank: Use bright colors and a simple lattice pattern a child can recognize.
Message in a Bottle: Include a small slot for notes or wishes alongside coins.
Pro-Tips for Success
Blade Selection: Use the smallest blade your scroll saw can handle for intricate lattice cuts—it gives you more control.
Reinforce Thin Areas: If lattice sections are very narrow, reinforce from behind with a thin wood backing.
Test Coins: Before final assembly, test that your largest coin fits through the slot and lattice openings.
Interior Smoothness: Sand interior surfaces well—rough spots can catch coins and prevent them from dropping fully.
Practice Pattern: Cut your lattice pattern on scrap wood first to perfect your technique.
Conclusion
This wooden lattice coin bank transforms saving money into a visual delight. With each coin dropped, you catch glimpses of your growing treasure through geometric windows—a daily reminder that small deposits add up to something beautiful.
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