Making the Chest

1. Purchase a wooden box the dimensions of your choice from any craft or light-furnishings store. A typical tea bag measures 2 1/2 inches wide. If you are making a small teacher or personal gift, and want only two rows of tea bags, then you need a box width of 5 1/4 inches to accommodate two tea bags plus one wooden insert. If you were to go to a tea house and order tea, the waiter would likely present you with a tea chest that holds four tea bags across with two rows of tea bags. You need a box that is 10 3/4 inches wide to hold four tea bags across.

2. Cut wooden inserts to the box dimensions, keeping the notched bottoms lined up so the inserts are even across the top. If you want one row of tea bags, you only need inserts to divide columns; if you have two rows, you need another insert to divide the them.

3. Sand the wooden box and inserts so there are no rough edges. All pieces should fit back together smoothly after sanding. Use a soft brush to sweep away all wood particles so they don't get caught up in the finishing process.

4. Stain the box and inserts in the color of your choice. Depending on your budget, choose an oil or water-based stain; oil-based stains are more expensive. Seal and finish the chest to prevent the stain from running and to protect the wood.

5. Attach a piece of velvet or felt to the inside of the lid using wood glue. Choose a fabric color that harmonizes with the wood and stain.