Tad's Box

Recently, a customer ordered a pen box and expressed an interest in seeing photos of the work as it progressed. It occurred to me that others might be interested in the process, too, so I decided to post about it here in my blog.

The box ordered is a BX-20, 15" x 9' x 6.25", in walnut, to hold 56 fountain pens. It will be similar to the one below, but in walnut instead of curly maple.

Material preparation and layout.

This is a walnut board that has been in my shop for 20 years or more.

First step: mark out the parts to be cut.

The major pieces have been cut and planed. From top to bottom they are: front, back sides and top.

The wood has been air drying for over 20 years, but I always check the moisture content. The meter indicates 6%: very dry.

I use templates to mark the sides. Each side consists of a large piece that will be attached to the body and a small piece attached to the lid.

Assembly

Attaching the small side parts to the lid.

Attaching the large side parts to the back/body assembly.

Making s thumb recess in the front.

Attaching the front to the body assembly.

The assembled box, no drawers yet.

Making the drawers pulls.

The assembled box, with drawers installed, dowels and hinges in place.