LumberJocks Woodworking Forum banner

Project Information

I'm a retired school teacher and have been for many years. When your old principal calls and asks you to build some boxes for his grandsons you still consider that an order. Just kidding, my old principal is one of the nicest guys you could ever meet. I was lucky to have been a staff member in his school. So, I considered it an honor to build the 3 boxes for the boys. Several years ago I purchased the wood from his family farm. I suggested he might think about building something from the wood. As years went by the farm sold. His wife of 59 years recently passed away and he was heart broken. It was early fall and he remembered my offer about the wood. He called and asked about making boxes for his 3 grandsons for Christmas. I new he was hurting, I new COVID 19 was a huge concern, but decided to take the risk. I suggested we build the boxes together. He stated, "But I no nothing about woodworking and not sure about using power tools". So, week after week he came over. We would reminisce for an hour or so and then go down to the shop. As I cut parts; he'd watch, sand or practice using the wood burner to write the boys names. Then I'd send him home. We spent a lot more time talking and little time building; that was okay. It was therapeutic for both of us. In between each visit, I'd work on the boxes.
The first box was made of worm ridden Ash using Walnut splines and inlays. The top has 2 dado-ed splines as place holders on the under side. The inlays on the top are thin strips of walnut placed between boards cut on the bandsaw and glued together (Squiggles I call them). 4 1/4' x 9 3/4" x 12 1/4' x 5/8" Finished in a hand rubbed poly method taught by Linda Cook.

Gallery

Comments

· Registered
Joined
·
5,101 Posts
Very nice, both the boxes and the story with it. Great job.
 

· Registered
Joined
·
1,309 Posts
Great looking box. Like the "squiggles." I'm going to have to check into your finish method - looks wonderful. Is it difficult to achieve that look?
 

· Registered
Joined
·
6,567 Posts
Love that bug torn Ash, and that sappy edge, super grain wrap. Nice touches. The splines work for me too.
 

· Registered
Joined
·
343 Posts
Very nice boxes, far greater is the story and how you reached out to be a comfort and a help in his time of need and heart ace. that is the Christian way of life.Serving others to supply their need from our abundance that we have been blessed with. May God's blessings be on Bothe of you.
 

· Premium Member
Joined
·
1,433 Posts
I'm not sure which is more cherished, wood from the family farm passed on to grandchildren or comforting an old friend thru the guise of building that heirloom.

Either way - A great job !! Thanks for sharing
 

· Registered
Joined
·
3,619 Posts
Great project, going to try them Squiggles:)
 

· Registered
Joined
·
110 Posts
Fabulous looking box and great choice of wood. Looks like you guys had fun and you did a nice thing for a friend. Imperfect lumber has soul.
 
Top