When I first started working at Havana Castle, I had only ever heard of cigar boxes being used to make guitars. Crappy guitars at that.
I've learned a lot in the four months I've been here.
For instance, cigar box guitars aren't crappy AT ALL.
Cool, eh?
I also learned cigar boxes can be used to ship dead bugs across the world. Yeah, that might be the most bizarre use for a cigar box I've heard to date, but when a biologist needs to send bug samples to England, cigar boxes are an inexpensive way to keep them safe during their travels. Whodda thunk it?
So what else can you do with cigar boxes?
I became interested enough in this question to do some elementary research on the matter and I came across some pretty sweet projects people have done with the vessels that hold our beloved tobacco products.
If you're interested in replicating any of these projects, or trying a project of your own, we have a box FULL of cigar boxes here at the shoppe. They retail for $3 each, regardless of size and all proceeds go to Just a Bunch of Friends, a local initiative that helps clothe and feed the poor.
1. Stationary Holder
I'm a bit of a scribbler so this idea resonated with me deeply. I feel like I've graduated from grade school pencil cases but I can't afford to buy some leather-bound, intricately embroidered adult pencil case. This is where a beautiful, wide cigar box comes into play. It can store a small notebook, pens and other writing-related nick-knacks. Genius.
2. Key holder
If you're like me, when you come home, you toss your keys a couch or a table like some errant grenade. This leads to you forgetting where you threw them, which leads you to being late for work, which leads to you having to admit to yourself you're your own worst enemy.
Maybe I'm the only one that does that. Regardless, you could use a cigar box key holder in your life.
3. A Drawer
This one might involve some woodworking skills and the use of electric tools, but if you've got a weekend to spend doing something productive that you can either use in your home or turn around and sell for a pretty penny, why not? Click here for instructions.
4. Gift Giving
You're going to spend a few dollars on wrapping for Christmas and birthday presents, right? Spend that money on a cigar box instead. It's classy, it protects what's inside and if you slap a bow on it, it'll be nicer than any dollar store bag or box you'll find.
5. Store jewelry
My girlfriend didn't understand why I loved cigar boxes so much until I was able to find a use for them that benefited her life. Frankly, I don't think I'm the only guy in that boat so the next time you pick up a stogie, grab a nice cigar box for her to use to store jewelry. Can't hurt, right?
6. Tool Holders
Organising the tools in your shed isn't cheap. I've been to hardware stores and I shake my head that people spend hundreds of dollars on made in China toolboxes and plastic Ikea-like furniture. DON'T WASTE YOUR MONEY. Cigar boxes will do the trick and keep your tool room or shed looking distinguished and, most importantly, organised.
7. Kindling
I mean, I wouldn't recommend buying a $3 cigar box just to burn it, but if you really have no interest in doing anything with used cigar boxes -- which if that's the case, I'm not sure why you're still reading this post -- use them for kindling. They go up in flames like nothing. The cardboard ones are particularly good for this...just sayin'.
Listen, there are no right or wrong things to do with cigar boxes. They make great storage, cool decor and a hell of a cheap guitar.
In saying that, I'm curious to know what you do with cigar boxes. If you have any projects you've undertaken, let us know in the comments section or Tweet us pictures of your creations @havanacastleldn.
'til next time, stay smoky, my friends.