How would you finish this DIY subwoofer box?

Laura B
by Laura B
Someone gave me a old humidifier she bought at a rumage sale years ago. I used it one winter and the past 2 years it sat idle collecting dust. I tried to give it away during my yard sale but to no avail. I was inspired to repurpose it and rid myself of two eyesores. However, I don't know how to make this light weight, wood looking, plastic subwoofer box into an eye pleasing plant table.

I have temper paint, fabrics in various lengths and patterns, spray adhesive, and a scrap piece of unfinished pine wood that fits the width, perfectly that can be cut to fit the length. I have other random craft supplies and a budget, too. Plus I'm a DIY novice.

any suggestions?
  6 answers
  • Bobbie Bobbie on Aug 05, 2017

    I would chalk paint it then replace the top cover with a decorative metal (grate) top so you can get the great sound from it and still have a place for your plants

  • Nancy Turner Nancy Turner on Aug 05, 2017

    There is a lot more to a subwoofer box than you think. If you have one, you will have to use how it is made to duplicate it in this box you plan to make from the humidifier. Check out all the details of the one you have for wires, how the cones are mounted in the box, what holes you will need to get sound out and what you will need to make covers for the holes, etc. You may need some foam for spots that may vibrate like you hear in some cars when they have too much vibration, nobody wants to hear that.

    • Laura B Laura B on Aug 05, 2017

      I understand your point concerning sound mechanics. i didn't change the original subwoofer box, I hid it inside the humidifier. Not before adding some padding to eliminate vibration. plus, there's enough space around and above the speaker that it doesn't interfere much with sound integrity.


      I've owned the Bose home stereo system before the creation of Netflix and wireless internet service, when DVDs and CDs were popula. I dont rent or purchase either any more and, occasionally use the auxiliary option only, to play music in the living room from a smaller device.


      This conceals the eyesore problem without hurting sound quality for which it's used. I will keep that in mind when I decorate it, tho. Thanks.

  • Nancy Turner Nancy Turner on Aug 05, 2017

    I also have one of those Bose systems from years ago, I don't think their stuff ever wears out. Great sound still from radio and CD's. I got mine before they added the DVD function. I don't know if I would go with the metal grate because it may cause vibrations, but try it before you permanently affix it. I would lighten the box a bit, and if you plan on leaving the board on top light, I would put some kind of runner on it to bring it together with the rest of the rooms colors. That would probably be the easiest thing to do.

  • Laura B Laura B on Aug 05, 2017

    hobestly, I don't know the best was to permanently fix anything on top and I think your right about it causing vibration sounds. The runner idea is a good one. It very easy plus I might have scrap fabric left over from previous projects. Since I'm a novice, Id be sorely disappointed if I made two eyesores into one big one after the excitement of hiding the subwoofer.


    Bose systems are durable and worth the high price. I'm attached to mine and it sadens me that its uncompatible with current techology. If I was an engineer, I'd be enclined to design a bluetooth adapter to, at least, stream music. Perhaps it already exist? Thank you for your sound advice (No pun intended).

  • Rose Middleton Rose Middleton on Aug 05, 2017

    Spray paint the "wood" body a color, then cut your board to match the size and shape of the top of the piece. You can turn it upside down on the board and draw around it. Paint the board and the trim the same color. Attach the board to the top with E6000 cement. Buy it at hobby stores - good to have around. It will adhere well with no vibration problem.

    The piece will look sleek and new. Colors should be simple and match your decor.

  • Laura B Laura B on Aug 05, 2017

    fantastic ideas! I've heard E6000 is a supreme product, I haven't tried, yet. I think my local hardware shop will cut wood according to specs. I'll have to check my fabrics for color inspiration and see how it all works out. thank you very much.