How to Build an Old-Fashioned Ice Box

How to Build an Old-Fashioned Ice Box
Written By
Edward Mercer
Edward Mercer
Published: Aug 18, 2011
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Step 1

Cut the pine boards into the six pieces that will make up your ice box. Measure the sections and use a saw -- electrical or manual -- to cut four 36-inch by 12-inch pieces and two 12-inch by 12-inch squares.

Step 2

Sand the pieces to remove dust and splinters. Begin with coarse sandpaper and move on to increasingly fine sandpaper to achieve the smoothest finish.

Step 3

Fasten the boards together into a box by aligning the side -- 36 by 12 -- boards along the base -- 12 by 12. Place two side boards on opposite ends flush against the base and drill one screw in every 6 inches to hold the two secure. Hold the remaining two sides flush against the base and the rim of the two other sides and screw the boards together to shape a box with an open top.

Advertisement

Step 4

Sand the edges of the box to remove any splinters.

Step 5

Place the remaining top board over the open lid. Align the board flush against the opening of the box and screw one of the hinges about 1 foot from the left side of one of the edges. Screw the second hinge about 1 foot from the right side of the same edge. Test that the hinges allow the lid to open and close and then tighten the screws.

Step 6

Drill two 1/2-inch holes into the top of the box, about 4 inches apart and in the center. Run a piece of rope through the holes from the top and tie off the ends so that the rope will serve as a handle.

Step 7

Line the inside of the box with two or three heavy-duty trash bags, fastening the bags to the box with thumbtacks at the corner. Cut strips of foam lining to the dimensions of each of the interior panels and attach them to the sides with thumbtacks over the trash bags. Add two more layers of trash bag lining over the foam to add water protection and allow you to easily replace the outer lining in the case of punctures or wear.

Advertisement

Step 8

Stain the outside of your box with an attractive wood stain to add an antique touch. Choose a stain color you like and add multiple coats with a paint brush, allowing the boards to dry for a few hours between coats.

Step 9

Fill the ice box with ice and close tightly to preserve the insulation and interior cooling.

Tips

Add additional layers of insulation in order to make your ice box more efficient. You may also want to seal the edges with a wood sealant if you live in a very warm climate.

Replace the outside layer of trash bags occasionally to keep humidity from damaging your wood.

Warnings

Always exercise caution and follow the manufacturer's directions carefully when using power tools.

Photo Credits

Hemera Technologies/PhotoObjects.net/Getty Images

Edward Mercer

Edward Mercer began writing professionally in 2009, contributing to several online publications on topics including travel, technology, finance and food. He received his Bachelor of Arts in literature from Yale University in 2006.

Sponsored
HomeSteady Logo

HomeSteady is the ultimate guide for all your household needs, from cleaning and HVAC to electrical, DIY and maintenance.

Property of TechnologyAdvice. © 2026 TechnologyAdvice. All Rights Reserved

Advertiser Disclosure: Some of the products that appear on this site are from companies from which TechnologyAdvice receives compensation. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site including, for example, the order in which they appear. TechnologyAdvice does not include all companies or all types of products available in the marketplace.