Here is the completed box that I built using only hand tools. I finally have a lid that I actually think I did OK on. It took me a while to get it so that you could lift it off without picking up the whole box. But it lifts off smoothly now. I’ve already flocked the inside.
Here’s the issue. I’ve decided I want to give this box to my best friend who has seen me through my recent illness (and previous ones as well). So that makes it a special box. I want to finish it right. I am not a good finisher – Water lox and wax and I call it done. I definitely like the building more than the finishing.
I’d like to know how you would finish this box. I am looking for a nice sheen – not to shiny but not a satin finish either.
Also, would you finish the underside of the lid as well – or just seal it?
Right now the box is sanded to 150 grit (I still have a few fuzzies on the bottom of the lid).
I’m really enjoying my hand tools and have really seen how they will enhance my woodworking projects. I know that I won’t be a total hand tool gal though – the thought of doing anything larger than a box totally by hand is to daunting to think about. I really am looking forward to getting back out in my power shop.
Thanks in advance for your ideas.
-- Betsy - GO BUCKS!
7 comments so far
Mike Lingenfelter
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384 posts in 565 days
posted 167 days ago
You have done something I’ve been wanting to do for a while, complete an entire project with only hand tools. Way to go on that accomplishment! I don’t have much advise on finish. I’ve only done low and high sheens projects lately. A hand-rubbed oil finish is becoming my favorite finish. It’s easy to apply and hard to mess up, but I would say it’s a low sheen.
-- Mike - http://inquisitivewoodworker.blogspot.com/
GaryK
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8411 posts in 439 days
posted 167 days ago
Pretty good. Now lets see if you can make one with a knife and fork! :-)
-- Gary, East TX -- The longest journey begins with a single step.
Tom Adamski
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215 posts in 222 days
posted 167 days ago
Betsy,
You can’t go wrong with tung oil. Sand it through 400 grit (with the grain). Apply the tung oil to coat all surfaces, wait about 5 minutes and buff clean with a lint free rag and let dry for 24 hours. Repeat this 2-3 times untill you have the sheen you want. Then wax as normal. Hope this helps.
Tom
-- Anybody can become a woodworker, but only a Craftsman can hide his mistakes.
teenagewoodworker
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1950 posts in 219 days
posted 166 days ago
i think that tung oil would look great too. and by the way great job with the hand tools. it takes awhile but you have a better feeling when its done than with power tools. personally i love hand tools. keep up the great work.
Anthrax
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98 posts in 166 days
posted 166 days ago
Awesome
-- check out my amazing woodburning , Pat
Anthrax
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98 posts in 166 days
posted 166 days ago
awesome to the max
-- check out my amazing woodburning , Pat
Betsy
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1760 posts in 347 days
posted 166 days ago
Thanks all. I’m going to try tung oil.
-- Betsy - GO BUCKS!