This project was built and designed by Steve from JKM Woodworking. It features a custom cocktail smoker and a matching gift box—both made entirely without a CNC machine or lathe—making it an approachable and rewarding build for any skill level.
With its practical design and refined presentation, this kit is ideal as a handmade gift or a personal upgrade to your home bar. Whether you’re building for Father’s Day, a holiday, or just because, the results are impressive both in form and function.
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What Is a Cocktail Smoker?
A cocktail smoker is a small device designed to infuse drinks with a smoky aroma. By burning wood chips or shavings and directing the smoke over the surface of a drink, the smoker enhances flavor and adds a memorable twist to classic cocktails.
Steve’s kit includes two smokers made from white oak, along with a handcrafted gift box to store the full set. The result is a cohesive package that combines woodworking precision with a touch of personal flair.
Materials and Tools Used
The primary material throughout the project is white oak, chosen for its durability and attractive grain. A splash of padauk is also used for contrast in the box lid, adding warmth and visual interest.
Tools include a router, circle jig, bandsaw, table saw, Forstner bits, and basic sanding supplies. Despite the absence of a lathe or CNC, Steve shows that precise, professional results are still possible with traditional tools.
Making the Smokers
The smokers are cut from solid white oak blocks. A Forstner bit is used to drill a shallow bowl in the top of each piece, creating the area where wood chips will burn.
A smaller, concentric hole is added in the center to allow smoke to pass through. This airflow is essential to the smoker’s function, and drilling both holes cleanly ensures a strong draw during use.
Steve mounts a router to a circle jig to shape the outer edge of the smoker. This provides the smooth, round profile that gives the finished piece its refined appearance. The jig delivers CNC-level consistency without the need for advanced tech.
After shaping, the wood is sanded smooth and treated with food-safe mineral oil. A stainless steel mesh screen is added to the bowl to catch ash, keeping the smoke pure and mess-free during use.
Crafting the Gift Box
The gift box is designed to match the look and quality of the smokers. Using a table saw and a box joint jig, Steve cuts evenly spaced finger joints that add both strength and visual appeal.
Top and bottom panels are created from re-sawn oak, which produces a bookmatched grain pattern when glued up. This technique enhances the visual flow across the lid and base, tying the box together with elegance.
Edges are softened with sanding, and the entire structure is dry-fitted before glue-up. Attention to detail here ensures tight joints and smooth operation when the lid is later separated from the base.
Adding Custom Design Features
To give the box a unique look, Steve adds a layer of padauk beneath the lid. The red tone contrasts beautifully with the oak and adds a pop of color to the finished piece.
The lid features a flame-shaped engraving, done with a laser engraver. While optional, this detail helps the box stand out and makes the kit feel like a specialty item rather than a basic project.
Laser engraving allows for customization, so this step can be adapted with initials, logos, or other personal details if building the kit as a gift.
Assembly and Finishing
Once all pieces are prepped, Steve assembles the box using glue and clamps. Blue painter’s tape helps contain excess glue, preventing staining and saving cleanup time later.
After the glue has set, the box is cut open to separate the lid from the base. This method keeps the grain aligned across the opening and ensures a clean break with minimal sanding needed.
Final sanding is done inside and out, and food-safe mineral oil is applied to seal and protect the wood. The result is a silky-smooth finish that enhances the grain without altering the natural tone of the materials.
Testing the Smoker in Action
With the smoker and gift box complete, Steve demonstrates the tool using a classic Old Fashioned cocktail. The white oak burns cleanly, and the smoke adds depth and character to the drink without overpowering it.
The addition of a screen and precise airflow design ensures an enjoyable experience every time. It’s a simple yet effective tool that feels elevated thanks to the quality of the craftsmanship.
Why This Project Stands Out
This smoker kit is more than a woodworking project—it’s a fully functional gift that combines practicality with beauty. It’s also a great way to challenge your skills with layout, joinery, shaping, and design, all in a small, manageable build.
Whether you’re making one for yourself or a handful to give away, the cocktail smoker kit is sure to impress. It’s a great example of how useful, personal items can also be beautiful.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Steve’s channel: