Project Information
I love boxes with unique grains and features. This one is made with maple. It has eye catching designs throughout. The wood is referred to as "Ambrosia Maple."
Now you might think ambrosia is a type of maple. Maybe even a type of wood… but it's not. Ambrosia is a beetle that burrows into a tree leaving a trail of color and tiny holes behind.
The color comes from a fungus that enters with the beetle. Sometimes they call it a bark beetle. Whatever the name, he produces some fantastic work with his travels. I recently began this box as a cremation urn or box. When I got it roughed out it occurred to me that people might not like their loved ones remains in a box riddled with holes. After all would you like a salt shaker full of Uncle Bob's ashes? So I ditched that idea and created this box.
I have tried to bring my box making a step further by paying attention to the little details. My friend Greg that every detail of one's work must be excellent (sorry Greg, couldn't remember it all.) So that's what I'm shooting for.
This box is 12" x 8" x6" and has a matching tray with dividers.
Both have a beige suede lined bottom and brass hinge and chain. It came out pretty well. If everything in this world lines up correctly I hope to sell this box for around $200. Most of my woodworking is done for fun, but I need to get some of my boxes to good homes so I can fund my habit.
So that's my lesson on the Ambrosia Beetle and the result of his travels. The colors and designs he leaves are among my very favorites!
Now you might think ambrosia is a type of maple. Maybe even a type of wood… but it's not. Ambrosia is a beetle that burrows into a tree leaving a trail of color and tiny holes behind.
The color comes from a fungus that enters with the beetle. Sometimes they call it a bark beetle. Whatever the name, he produces some fantastic work with his travels. I recently began this box as a cremation urn or box. When I got it roughed out it occurred to me that people might not like their loved ones remains in a box riddled with holes. After all would you like a salt shaker full of Uncle Bob's ashes? So I ditched that idea and created this box.
I have tried to bring my box making a step further by paying attention to the little details. My friend Greg that every detail of one's work must be excellent (sorry Greg, couldn't remember it all.) So that's what I'm shooting for.
This box is 12" x 8" x6" and has a matching tray with dividers.
Both have a beige suede lined bottom and brass hinge and chain. It came out pretty well. If everything in this world lines up correctly I hope to sell this box for around $200. Most of my woodworking is done for fun, but I need to get some of my boxes to good homes so I can fund my habit.
So that's my lesson on the Ambrosia Beetle and the result of his travels. The colors and designs he leaves are among my very favorites!