CVS Inspired Clutter Press

Let’s admit it. For many of us, our shop is essentially a playpen. And some times, the tools we want to play with are in search of a project. That’s true in this case. I had a powerful hankering to get back to my turning lathe and try out a new spline cutting jig.

So, an irritant is the lame purpose of this project, namely CVS Pharmacy. A prescription purchase from CVS comes with a receipt that can be as long a 5 feet. My wife and I have a lot of prescriptions. As a result, our beautiful antique Hooser Hutch was buried in a huge pile of long curly coupons and other paper clutter. I am not a couponer and I know when to keep my mouth shut.

Project Details: Red oak with walnut trim. Interior dimensions 8” X 11 1/2”. The Rockler spline jig produced fine corner cuts easily. The splines are intentionally a 1/16th proud for an interesting effect. The lid is loose and floats on the clutter as a press. Natural unstained wood, 2 coats of Minwax Poly.

Did it work? NO! The press is becoming buried in coupons.

-- DJ Peck, Lincoln Nebraska. Lord, keep your arm around my shoulder and your hand over my mouth.