Pie safes – predecessors to iceboxes – had punched-tin panels that were often made from discarded tin cans. The holes let air circulate around food but prevented pests from doing the same.

Easy enough for any woodworker, the project features simple construction techniques and full-size patterns. The plan also includes two traceable designs for the punched-tin panels, but original ...

Punched circlets, for example, give personality to a plain metal lamp. A crosshatch pattern can bring new life to an old pie tin, which can become a piece worthy of display.

Simple enough for a beginner, the project features simple construction techniques and full-size patterns. The plan also includes two traceable designs for the punched-tin panels, but original ...

The plan includes two traceable designs for the punched-tin panels (a mail order source for blanks is included), but original designs are a popular option.

Pie safes like this one were a 19th-century form of food storage. Try saying “punched tin panels protected pies” 10 times fast!