| Project by GaryK | posted 662 days ago | 140570 views | 67 times favorited | 161 comments | ![]() |
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1 BOX OF DRAWERS
This project took 4 days of thinking and 4 weeks of work. My wife has been after me to make a box to
keep all her cross stitching supplies in. Then the “Not just any Box” contest came up. I figured that
I would kill two birds with one stone. The box is a cube 17” square with the feet height of 7/8” and
extending beyond the cube 3/8” on each side. It will fit into an 18” cube. I made it as compact as
I could and still hold all her supplies.
Materials:
Case: mahogany
Front: Quilted maple, ebony and quilted sapel.
Drawer sides, bottoms and dividers: maple plywood.
Drawer front and back: Peruvian walnut
Drawer face: quilted maple, Peruvian walnut, poplar
Feet: Wenge
It’s kind a lot to take in, in just a few pictures so I have included these showing more angles.
For any of the pictures that don’t show up in full you can view them at
Here it shows all the drawers open displaying the pin joinery. All drawers have full extension wood
dovetailed slides. Like something that has 24 of anything it gets real boring after a while. After applying
336 pins in the drawers, I hope not to see any for a long time. The ends were dyed and dried before
inserting them into the drawers to avoid any bleeding into the maple sides.
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Here is a closeup showing continuous quilted pattern across all drawer faces and the details
of the corners. The corners were cut 1/8” deep and inlayed with walnut. Then 3 holes were drilled
part way through and filled with poplar dowels. The endgrain on the dowels surprised me with how good
they looked once flushed.
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The following two show the back with and without the doors open. Here I tried to made the
back copy the front as far as the drawer layout was concerned.
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I have included some construction details that I felt might be of interest.
I don’t think I will ever make anything with so many drawers ever again. The full extension dovetailed
drawer slides seemed to take forever!
Here is one
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A close up view
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How the slide stop was done with a peg
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Here is part of it installed in the box:
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And the other part installed on the drawer bottoms
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For the front and back of the drawers I also used walnut. For the fronts it allowed
me to drill through the maple to expose the darker walnut.
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For the drawer handles I drilled through the maple surface into the walnut behind it for a great
contrast. The handles presented another problem. At first I was just going to put little knobs in
the holes, but my wife was going to keep hundreds if different colored thread in there and I wanted
to have it organized so that she could find it easily. The solution was name tags built into the
handles. The slot was the hard part. I started by putting a groove down the length of wood as
seen here:
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Then after cutting it into handle sized pieces I glued a thin 1/16” piece of Laotian Boxwood
on it creating the slot for the label to slide into. The boxbood is great because it is strong
machines great, and is splinter free.
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Here it is completed and the fixture I used to route the window.
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The last thing is the finish on the quilted maple drawer fronts. To get the quilted figure to
really stand out I used a brown water based dye very diluted to about the color of a weak tea.
The dye really soaks into the wood especially the quilt pattern. Then I sanded off just enough
to leave the dye in the quilted pattern. Then applied a oil poly.
I didn’t want any handles on the box so to keep the doors closed I embeded small magnets in
the case and door. The lower drawer is opened using the notch above it.
The feet are made from wenge, and I tried to make it look like the box was floating.
I am leaving for California tomorrow so I will answer any questions when I can get online.
-- Gary, East TX -- The longest journey begins with a single step.































161 comments so far
Paul
home | projects | blog
607 posts in 983 days
posted 662 days ago
O my goodness man!
That’s just crazy beautiful and skillfully made!
Wow! Congratulations.
-- Paul, Texas
dennis mitchell
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3791 posts in 1205 days
posted 662 days ago
I’m floored. Beautiful…just breathtaking.
-- http://www.woodsongsfurniture.com
TonyWard
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284 posts in 1219 days
posted 662 days ago
Gary
Amazing, I’ve no doubt this will become a heirloom for generations to come! Well done.
Good Health
Tony Ward
-- Bandsaw Box Plans
JC
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127 posts in 689 days
posted 662 days ago
Man that is incredible – those full extension dovetail slides are genius!
-- JC - Central PA - www.affyx.com
JonJ
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105 posts in 731 days
posted 662 days ago
Daaang! Do you ever sleep? That is awesome!
I am overwhelmed by not only the detail involved here, but the AMOUNT of it…
I would have been burned out after making ONE drawer.
-- Jon
Douglas Bordner
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3424 posts in 955 days
posted 662 days ago
jeez…
-- "Bordnerizing" perfectly good lumber for over a decade.
Russel
home | projects | blog
2054 posts in 830 days
posted 662 days ago
That is fantastic. The detail, the wood, the engineering. A most impressive box, although calling it a box is like calling a Picaso a drawing.
-- When you give someone a chance it may well be their last.
rpmurphy509
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290 posts in 745 days
posted 662 days ago
Very beautiful box.
-- Still learning everything
Grumpy
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14914 posts in 742 days
posted 662 days ago
That is one hell of a project Gary. Beautiful job.
-- Grumpy - "Always look on the bright side of life"- Monty Python
chamoruboy
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128 posts in 899 days
posted 662 days ago
WOW!
-- Greatness is not found in possessions, power, position, or prestige. It is discovered in goodness, humility, service, and love.
DAN
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6435 posts in 874 days
posted 662 days ago
one heck of a box !
amazing work.
-- work from your heart and your spirit will live forever
CharlieM1958
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7591 posts in 1109 days
posted 662 days ago
That is just ridiculously amazing. ((((shaking head))))
-- Charlie M. "Woodworking - patience = firewood"
YorkshireStewart
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782 posts in 792 days
posted 662 days ago
Beautifully fitted inside the size rule of the competition Gary, and exquisite in its design and execution. A stunning piece of work!
-- Res severa verum gaudium - True pleasure is a serious business. http://www.folksy.com/shops/TreeGems
Thos. Angle
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4015 posts in 853 days
posted 662 days ago
My word! Gary, I think you are up for a two-fer on these contests. This is just incredible. I am flabergasted!
-- Thos. Angle
dalec
home | projects | blog
581 posts in 779 days
posted 662 days ago
Gary,
Your box project blows me away. It must have been a long four weeks of work. Great design, beautiful work and finish.
I can only dream of this kind of project.
Congratulations,
Dalec
Les Hastings
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951 posts in 664 days
posted 662 days ago
Way to go Dude!! Makes all the wood in my wood rack all tingly wanting to be a part of something so incredible!!! Fantastic job Gary!!
-- Les, Wichita, Ks. (I'd rather be covered in saw dust!)
ErsatzTom
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103 posts in 697 days
posted 662 days ago
Damn, that is cool! Now I just have to figure out if I want to show that to my wife or not.
-- Tom, Southwest Florida
rikkor
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11338 posts in 765 days
posted 662 days ago
Speechless. Words would minimize it.
Karson
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25787 posts in 1291 days
posted 662 days ago
Gary. A fantastic box. A great job. Congratulation on finishing it.
-- What happens in the workshop stays in the workshop. No wait that doesn't sound right. Karson Southern Delaware karson_morrison@bigfoot.com †
Scott Bryan
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20518 posts in 713 days
posted 662 days ago
This is simply amazing. I can’t imagine the imaginative effort and woodworking ability it takes to create a work of art like this. I will be honest with you though- to use it as a sewing center almost seems sacrilegious. This is akin to using the Hope Diamond to crack nuts.
By the way your photographic techniques are outstanding as well.
I hope your wife has a tool wish list from you because you certainly have earned anything on it.
thanks for sharing.
-- With God's help all things are possible- even woodworking. Woodworking is not just a hobby, it is an (expletive deleted) expensive hobby.
cajunpen
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5970 posts in 957 days
posted 662 days ago
I think that we may have a winner here. Gary, this is absolutely incredible craftsmanship and design. I love the full extension dovetail drawers. The wood combinations and details are way over the top. Good for you – you are an incredibly talented craftsman- WOW!!!
-- Bill - "Suit yourself and let the rest be pleased." http://www.cajunpen.com/
Blake
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2751 posts in 765 days
posted 662 days ago
This is Incredible!!! I’ve never seen anything like it! I don’t know what else to say. Just amazing.
-- Check out my new website! http://www.blakeweberwoodworking.com
mrtrim
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1700 posts in 771 days
posted 662 days ago
YOU DAWG ! you buried the bone on that one ! wow your just an amazing talent ! incredible job !
Patrick Jaromin
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284 posts in 723 days
posted 662 days ago
Incredible…and crazy amount of work…but well worth it! Truly inspirational.
-- Patrick, Chicago, IL http://www.TenonAndSpline.com/blog
molarman
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37 posts in 709 days
posted 662 days ago
Ladies and Gentlemen…....We have a winner!!!!
-- Woodworking is not a destination....it's a joinery !!! http://smilesrus.com/pages/woodgallery.html
Billp
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329 posts in 1091 days
posted 662 days ago
Gary it’s people like you that keep me comming back to this sight. You really inspire us all to strive for a fraction of your skills. Excellent Job.
-- Billp
mot
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4902 posts in 927 days
posted 662 days ago
Gary, you’re my hero!
-- You can discover more about a person in an hour of play than in a year of conversation. (Plato)
Dick, & Barb Cain
home | projects | blog
7034 posts in 1190 days
posted 662 days ago
WOW!
I don’t think anyone can top this.
Boy! you must’ve had an amazing dream, with this dream of a project.
Beautiful artistic craftsmanship.
-- -** You are never to old to set another goal or to dream a new dream ****************** Dick, & Barb Cain, Hibbing, MN. http://www.woodcarvingillustrated.com/gallery/member.php?uid=3627&protype=1
TomFran
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2509 posts in 885 days
posted 662 days ago
Gary,
I think you just “nuked” the competion with this one. I couldn’t even “imagine” this project, let alone build it. You are a very talented fellow.
It’s good to have you here on this site in case any of us ever get a little proud about the stuff we make. One look at this box, and it’s instant “HUMILITY.”
-- Tom, Surfside Beach, SC - Romans 8:28
scottb
home | projects | blog
3403 posts in 1218 days
posted 662 days ago
I think your math is wrong… don’t you mean 4 WEEKS of thinking, and MONTHS of building.
WOW.
NICE!
-- I am always doing what I cannot do yet, in order to learn how to do it. - Pablo Picasso -- http://blanchardcreative.etsy.com -- http://snbcreative.wordpress.com/
Betsy
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2388 posts in 787 days
posted 662 days ago
DANG!
-- You can't get a hug from Facebook.
Jimthecarver
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426 posts in 676 days
posted 662 days ago
Wow! Gary I’ll go with rikkor “Speachless”
-- Can't never could do anything, to try is to advance.
Lee A. Jesberger
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3710 posts in 870 days
posted 662 days ago
Hi Gary;
Once again I’m forced to hate you! LOL
Spectacular. From the looks of some of your projects I see you follow the same guide lines as I. If it isn’t almost impossible you’re not interested.
Great work.
Lee
-- by Lee A. Jesberger http://www.prowoodworkingtips.com http://www.ezee-feed.com
toyguy
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712 posts in 728 days
posted 662 days ago
WOW… Just plain WOW…. that’s cool
-- Brian's Table Top Toys http://home.mountaincable.net/~bgraham/
CedarFreakCarl
home | projects | blog
565 posts in 944 days
posted 662 days ago
Gary, me thinks you’ve got too much time on your hands. When I grow up I want to be just like ya…lol. Simply amazing!!! What you need is a house full of kids.
-- Carl Rast, Pelion, SC
Napaman
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3482 posts in 968 days
posted 662 days ago
wow…gray…just amazing…its going in the favorites for sure!!!
-- Matt, Napa, CA...fun is beautiful...just trying to have some fun...
Partridge
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221 posts in 847 days
posted 662 days ago
it looks functional. woow
-- Do it right the first time. Becuase fixing it is a wast of time.
GaryK
home | projects | blog
9518 posts in 879 days
posted 662 days ago
Thank you for all your kind comments. I appreciate them.
It really means something coming from all of you!
-- Gary, East TX -- The longest journey begins with a single step.
Zuki
home | projects | blog
1232 posts in 968 days
posted 662 days ago
U da man G.
-- The significant problems we face cannot be solved by the same level of thinking that created them
molarman
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37 posts in 709 days
posted 662 days ago
To quote the dialog from a popular television commercial…....”DUDE!!!!”
-- Woodworking is not a destination....it's a joinery !!! http://smilesrus.com/pages/woodgallery.html
Don
home | projects | blog
2590 posts in 1068 days
posted 662 days ago
I wouldn’t believe it unless I saw it – even then… Terrific!
-- CanuckDon "I just love small wooden boxes!" http://www.hilsbiblechurch.org/
RobS
home | projects | blog
1242 posts in 1197 days
posted 662 days ago
A cube! 3D! Yeah, like Dazzling, Diabolical and DY-NO-MITE!!! Great piece Gary!
-- Rob (A) Waxahachie,TX
CharlieM1958
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7591 posts in 1109 days
posted 662 days ago
I just stopped back for another look, and I still can’t believe it!
-- Charlie M. "Woodworking - patience = firewood"
lclashley
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243 posts in 1005 days
posted 662 days ago
Holy Crap! I think I just wet myself.
GREAT WORK!
bryano
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546 posts in 824 days
posted 662 days ago
holy cow, man thats one nice box.
-- bryano
dustynewt
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446 posts in 753 days
posted 662 days ago
You have my vote, Gary. Absolutely fabulous.
-- Please visit me at http://dustynewt.com
darryl
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1392 posts in 1217 days
posted 662 days ago
I don’t know what to say that hasn’t been said already… that’s pretty dang impressive.
congrats on a job well done!
-- www.darrylmasterson.com ~ www.darrylmasterson.etsy.com
woodup
home | projects | blog
145 posts in 834 days
posted 662 days ago
Incredible use of the space criteria. Truely inspirational work! Thanks for sharing your skills and ideas!
-- Michael, Fort Worth, TX. "I wood if I could!"
Popintraining
home | projects | blog
109 posts in 729 days
posted 662 days ago
I’m blown away! That’s Awesome
-- Illegitimis nil carborundum - Don't let the bastards grind you down http://woodworkingtipsfrompop.com
Dorje
home | projects | blog
1768 posts in 888 days
posted 662 days ago
All that, out of one 2×4! Amazing! You must have done a lot of dye work.
But seriously – what a great invention! All the woods really join forces in this piece…
But my favorite aspect in terms of the design of this piece is the pattern/s in the set of drawer fronts you created…
It’s really fantastic, in the true sense of the word. Mesmerizing!
If I may cut and paste (it’s lonely down here after 50 comments or so without any pictures):
-- Dorje (pronounced "door-jay"), Seattle, WA
shiney5757
home | projects | blog
79 posts in 662 days
posted 661 days ago
amazing work patience gets it done
-- I cut it twice & it was still too short
cajunpen
home | projects | blog
5970 posts in 957 days
posted 661 days ago
I couldn’t resist coming back for yet another look. It still looks great.
-- Bill - "Suit yourself and let the rest be pleased." http://www.cajunpen.com/
Bob #2
home | projects | blog
3031 posts in 912 days
posted 661 days ago
Gary, these works of yours are extraordinary! I have not seen this much talent rolled up into one person before.
I have to admire your patience and ability to see the finished piece in your head.
The crafstmanship is stunning.
Bob
-- A mind, like a home, is furnished by its owner
SPalm
home | projects | blog
943 posts in 773 days
posted 661 days ago
HOLY MOLY! That is just FINE. Truly an insperational piece of work.
Didn’t you just build a birdcage that took like forever? Do you ever sleep?
I am humbled.
Steve
-- Stevethepeeve -- I'm no rocket surgeon
miles125
home | projects | blog
1417 posts in 896 days
posted 661 days ago
Thats an amazing box Gary! I figure you musta left out any gold leafing cause you didn’t wanna get too fancy? Heehee….Just awesome.
-- miles125, Alabama.."Architecture is frozen music""
Jon3
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439 posts in 996 days
posted 661 days ago
I love boxes with tons of drawers, but wow, are they a ton of work!
Andy
home | projects | blog
570 posts in 799 days
posted 661 days ago
Truly outstanding Gary!
That is an intimidating piece of work, but you did a wonderful job.I am sure your wife appreciates all your hard work.Very kind of you.
-- " If I can make it,so can you" Andy in Oregon
romansfivefive
home | projects | blog
258 posts in 664 days
posted 661 days ago
That might just be one of the most beautiful pieces of furniture that I have ever seen. That is amazing. That is a piece of art!
-- www.robneves.com
Brad_Nailor
home | projects | blog
1210 posts in 848 days
posted 661 days ago
Wow….that is skillfully engineered and beautifully executed. Tremendous craftsmanship and selection of materials. It is both functional and a true craftsman piece. Congrats on a museum quality project. Makes me want to Sketchup it!
-- David, South Windsor, CT "I love the smell of sawdust in the morning"
Bob Babcock
home | projects | blog
1808 posts in 977 days
posted 661 days ago
Holy $#@% Batman! Amazing Gary…..
-- Bob, Carver Massachusetts, Sawdust Maker http://www.capecodbaychallenge.org
MsDebbieP
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14152 posts in 1051 days
posted 661 days ago
ooooooh my goodness…....... that’s jaw-dropping amazing.
ditto to everything that has been said above!!!!!!!
Unbelievable
oh did I miss it: what does your wife think of it? Does it serve the purpose ?
-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)
Rymann
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11 posts in 669 days
posted 661 days ago
Simply beautiful. Amazing..really! GaryK’s got mad skillz.
MrVee
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4 posts in 692 days
posted 661 days ago
HEY…. YOU COPIED THAT FROM ME!!! Yeah Right….. ABSOLUTELY INCREDIBLE!!
I agree with everyone… jaw dropping AND… it should not be commisioned for a sewing center!! Needs a better purpose to show it off… You definitely have my vote!!!! Great Job Gary…. you are extremely skilled.
IowaWoodcrafter
home | projects | blog
256 posts in 967 days
posted 661 days ago
I can’t believe I missed this! I didn’t know about it until Dennis posted a a message in the forums. I, too, am simply in awe. A true masterpiece.
Did you use and Incra jig to make the drawer slides? I never would have thought of making slides like that, thanks for sharing that with us.
-- Owen Johnson - aka IowaWoodcrafter
ben
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158 posts in 761 days
posted 661 days ago
Damn that’s hot. Damn hot. Hot damn!
-b
forkboy
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48 posts in 666 days
posted 661 days ago
wow, thats an amazing box. impressive work.
-- Perth, Australia
motthunter
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2079 posts in 690 days
posted 661 days ago
once again, you have blown me away with your work.
-- making sawdust....
Jeff
home | projects | blog
997 posts in 985 days
posted 661 days ago
Hey Gary.
Umm, yeah. Words escape me. I’m truly envious of the skill you possess that enables you to make such amazing work. Thanks for sharing (and inspiring all of us).
-- Jeff, St. Paul, MN
Thos. Angle
home | projects | blog
4015 posts in 853 days
posted 660 days ago
Gary, I think this has taken on a life all its own. Congratulations!!!!!
-- Thos. Angle
mrtrim
home | projects | blog
1700 posts in 771 days
posted 660 days ago
gary , do you want to sell your old bandsaw ?? lol
Mark A. DeCou
home | projects | blog
1537 posts in 1296 days
posted 660 days ago
Hey Gary. I usually don’t log onto LJ in the morning, as I find that I get caught up and then don’t get to the shop like I should. BUT, after reading Dennis’ blog praising this box, I had to go see it. If this box doesn’t make into a box book at some point, I’ll be a monkey’s uncle. And that doesn’t represent anything about my neice and nephew.
This is just too cool. Way slick engineering. Wonderful detailed inlay, and beautiful woods, all for the purpose of a gift to the wife. Can’t beat that in my book. This should clean your slate for a few days, maybe even get you breakfast in bed.
Well, I gotta get logged off before I get caught up again. Great work, just really great.
-- Mark DeCou - American Contemporary Craft Artisan - www.decoustudio.com
NCWoodworker
home | projects | blog
6 posts in 668 days
posted 660 days ago
OH, yah, I saw that in last month’s edition of “Simple Boxes for New Woodworkers” magazine. I was waiting for someone to try that…haha!
Man oh man, that is absolutely gorgeous! I can’t believe you came up with the design in 4 days…that in itself is incredible! Beautiful design…beautiful work! My mother does a lot of cross-stitch and embroidery and she WILL NOT see your pictures (yes, that is a compliment!)
Awesome!
Chris
-- Antiques made, while you wait
GaryK
home | projects | blog
9518 posts in 879 days
posted 660 days ago
I don’t know what to say! I’m speechless and all I can say is thank you all for you comments.
I’ll think of something by the time I get home from California.
Gary
-- Gary, East TX -- The longest journey begins with a single step.
MsDebbieP
home | projects | blog
14152 posts in 1051 days
posted 660 days ago
yup—still stunning. Hasn’t changed any since yesterday :)
-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)
Douglas Bordner
home | projects | blog
3424 posts in 955 days
posted 660 days ago
Okay, it took a day to get over speechless. This is too good for the Readers Gallery in FWW. This is feature article, back cover and Master Class and How They Did It good, and then Associate Editor good. I think you should consider granite countertops to match your new saw.
-- "Bordnerizing" perfectly good lumber for over a decade.
Miket
home | projects | blog
265 posts in 663 days
posted 660 days ago
What? I was going through the box entries and I came to this one and stopped dead!
How can someone compete with that! That has to be the most amazing thing I have ever
seen, even in the magazines. Still shaking my head.
-- It's better to have people think you're stupid rather than open your mouth and remove all doubt.
Popintraining
home | projects | blog
109 posts in 729 days
posted 660 days ago
Dude, I had to come back and look at this thing again. I think you have issues! Anybody that can come up with this can not be right! Just kidding, it’s just a beautiful piece and I wish I could see it in person. Again, Great job
-- Illegitimis nil carborundum - Don't let the bastards grind you down http://woodworkingtipsfrompop.com
Russel
home | projects | blog
2054 posts in 830 days
posted 660 days ago
Gary, I too have to keep coming back to look. Aside from the engineering accomplishments, it is just so pretty to look at. Once again, it is a beautiful box.
-- When you give someone a chance it may well be their last.
CoreyLiepelt
home | projects | blog
20 posts in 732 days
posted 660 days ago
I’ve been lurking for some time on LJ, and this is the first time I’ve wandered out of the shadows to comment on anything. But I could sit idly by no longer. I am awed by so many of the wonderful contest entries, but this one stopped me dead in my tracks. I can only hope that one day I have learned enough to execute craftsmanship like this. As for reaching the point where I could actually visualize such a project of my own design … well, that’s further away than I care to think about.
It’s posts like this that have me reticent to post my own meager projects. And yet I know I’ll learn tons from the many experts on this site. So I guess it’s time to take some photos of some old projects and get them posted.
Again, stunning work Gary!
-- Dublin, OH
Scott Bryan
home | projects | blog
20518 posts in 713 days
posted 659 days ago
Gary, I had to come back for another look. It still is as awesome as when I first looked. By the way my wife happened by, saw the box, and wanted to know if I could build her something like that. Needless to say I had no answer to give her.
-- With God's help all things are possible- even woodworking. Woodworking is not just a hobby, it is an (expletive deleted) expensive hobby.
bfd
home | projects | blog
418 posts in 698 days
posted 659 days ago
Gary,
Rikkor said it best. I hope you consider submitting this to FWW in their gallery section or perhaps an article on this piece.
-- Brian, Folsom, CA http://www.brianfullerdesigns.com
Copperjock
home | projects | blog
120 posts in 689 days
posted 658 days ago
Some projects excel so far beyond the norm that they define the concept. Your box definitely fits this category. Words don’t stand a chance of doing it justice. It’s as impressive an accomplishment as any. Congratulations on such a successful project. And thanks for sharing it with us.
-- All the test cuts in the world won't stop you from cutting the outside when you meant to cut the inside. doh!
shaun
home | projects | blog
361 posts in 796 days
posted 657 days ago
I’m not even going to embarrass myself by trying to put words to this project. I’m just going to bow reverently and pay homage to it’s creator.
-- I've cut that board three times and it's still too short!
Tony Z
home | projects | blog
173 posts in 681 days
posted 657 days ago
Man, that is frickin awesome! Nice work. I hope to do stuff that well some day.
-- Tony, Ohio
GaryK
home | projects | blog
9518 posts in 879 days
posted 656 days ago
Thanks again for all your comments. You don’t know how much it means to me.
I am sitting at the airport waiting for my flight home. Reading this is a great sendoff.
-- Gary, East TX -- The longest journey begins with a single step.
Kerry
home | projects | blog
131 posts in 681 days
posted 656 days ago
Unbelievable. I can’t imagine the number of hours this must take. Congratulations on a masterpiece.
Kerry
-- Alberta, Canada
Robb
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356 posts in 825 days
posted 654 days ago
Gary, this is some of the most amazing woodworking I’ve ever seen. You’re my hero! grin
-- Robb
walnutter
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8 posts in 653 days
posted 653 days ago
Gary – This is such a fantastic piece of woodworking. The design all the way down to the skill it took to create such an amazing piece. Congratulations on an incredible job. I can’t wait to see what you come up with next.
sharad
home | projects | blog
702 posts in 695 days
posted 651 days ago
Unbelievable piece of work.
Sharad
-- patanjali
MsDebbieP
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14152 posts in 1051 days
posted 651 days ago
Congratulations Gary..
and what does the Mrs think of her famous storage unit?
-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)
GaryK
home | projects | blog
9518 posts in 879 days
posted 651 days ago
Debbie – She is tickled about it. She keeps wanting to move it to different places until she finds one she likes.
It’s amazing how much wood there is in there. It weighs 57 pounds!
I had no idea it weighed that much when I was dealing with pieces, but when I went to pick the whole thing
up I got quite a surprise.
-- Gary, East TX -- The longest journey begins with a single step.
MsDebbieP
home | projects | blog
14152 posts in 1051 days
posted 651 days ago
so you hope that she find “the” place soon.. so you can stop lugging it around :)
She might consider putting it at the front door for everyone to see )
-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)
Karson
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25787 posts in 1291 days
posted 651 days ago
Gary Congratulation on the great piece and on the well deserved win.
Well done my man.
-- What happens in the workshop stays in the workshop. No wait that doesn't sound right. Karson Southern Delaware karson_morrison@bigfoot.com †
schroeder
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511 posts in 1016 days
posted 651 days ago
Truely a work of art Gary! – Absolutely stunning! – Congrates!
-- The Gnarly Wood Shoppe
Harold
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313 posts in 738 days
posted 651 days ago
Gary! congratulations! Long after we are no longer here on this earth, people will still be amazed at what you have created. What a wonderful community to be associated with!
-- If knowledge is not shared, it is forgotten.
MelvinKey
home | projects | blog
3 posts in 659 days
posted 651 days ago
I know that this is merely repeating the above comments, but I just had to say that it is a combination of art and craftsmanship I have never seen. How anyone could possibly design this project and then have the craftmanship to build it in four days is just unbelieveable. It is beautifully conceived and masterfully executed. I cannot even visualize how some of it was crafted. Congratualtions on winning the contest, you surely deserved it!
Greg Salata
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81 posts in 653 days
posted 651 days ago
Stunning….......................Simply Stunning!
woodup
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145 posts in 834 days
posted 651 days ago
Congrats on your very deserving win! This project got my top vote! Way to go! Thanks for your input to the LJ community, Michael
-- Michael, Fort Worth, TX. "I wood if I could!"
Bob A in NJ
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521 posts in 890 days
posted 649 days ago
Wow, only 4 days to figure this out? It would take me forever. Very sophisticated design, flawless craftsmanship. I tip my hat to you. Excellent.
-- Bob A in NJ
Joel Tille
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214 posts in 1135 days
posted 649 days ago
Congrats Gary – Absolutely deserving of first place!!
-- Joel Tille
Jeff
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9 posts in 698 days
posted 648 days ago
Truly Awesome. Absolutely beautiful.
-- I think, therefore I am confused.
ICTINSTRUCTOR
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26 posts in 649 days
posted 648 days ago
That is awesome!!!!!!!!
-- "It's easier to get forgiveness than permission"
Hawgnutz
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522 posts in 967 days
posted 647 days ago
WOW!!
You desreve to win the prize with that box. Totally awesome!
Congratulations. You worked hard for the accolades, to be sure!
God Bless,
Hawg
-- Saving barnwood from the scrapyards
Donna Menke
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103 posts in 1157 days
posted 647 days ago
There isn’t anything more I can add- just wanted to chime in with my appreciation of the skill involved both in the design and impeccable workmanship involved in making this wonderful box.
-- "So much wood. . .so little time!" www.woodworks-by-donna.com
Danette Smith
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126 posts in 1171 days
posted 645 days ago
Amazing box! Congrats on the win!! You do awesome work!
-- Dangee's Pyrography by Artist Danette Smith
Joe Lyddon
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480 posts in 943 days
posted 642 days ago
That is just plain AWESOME!!
Those dovetailed sliders sure look nice… is there a trick to making them?
Great project… and performance!
-- Have Fun! Joe Lyddon - Alta Loma, CA USA - Home: http://www.WoodworkStuff.net ... My Small Gallery: http://www.ncwoodworker.net/pp/showgallery.php?ppuser=1389&cat=500"
Gareth
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11 posts in 641 days
posted 638 days ago
I’ve only just joined, but I doubt I will see many projects better than this. A wonderful piece of craftsmanship
-- Gareth, Amlwch
GaryK
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9518 posts in 879 days
posted 635 days ago
Joe – Not much of a trick. I did use an Incra router fence and their templates to do it.
Just a double dovetail done along the length of the piece instead of on the end.
I got the idea at a woodworking show, watching them demo the fence.
-- Gary, East TX -- The longest journey begins with a single step.
MsDebbieP
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14152 posts in 1051 days
posted 633 days ago
it is amazing, isn’t it!!
!!!!
-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)
Thuan
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203 posts in 709 days
posted 631 days ago
Thought I’d revisit this incredible box again to initiate the 3001st view. Still inspiring.
-- Thuan
Miket
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265 posts in 663 days
posted 629 days ago
I just had to stop by again and say what a wonderful box this is. Congratulations on your well deserved win!
It’s still the most amazing thing I have ever seen!
-- It's better to have people think you're stupid rather than open your mouth and remove all doubt.
rikkor
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11338 posts in 765 days
posted 629 days ago
Even better the ninth time!
MsDebbieP
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14152 posts in 1051 days
posted 628 days ago
definitely worth checking out again and again.
When I took the poster to the Steel City Tools display (at the wood show this weekend), Jim (VP of STC) asked me which projects were Gary’s. As soon as he saw the poster he said “oh yes,, yes… amazing stuff”. Amazing indeed.
-- ~ Debbie, Canada (http://www.execulink.com/~yohan)
John's Woodshop
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126 posts in 907 days
posted 628 days ago
Gary,
What a tremendous project. I bet your wife is glad to have that! Great Job!
-- John -- Racine, WI -- Woodworking..."It's not just a Hobby, it's an Adventure"
Woodshopfreak
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390 posts in 633 days
posted 623 days ago
AMAZEING. How did you make that inlay on he front. Mad Skills.
-- Tyler, Illinois
Mark E.
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64 posts in 633 days
posted 623 days ago
This is an absolutely outstanding piece! PERFECT!
-- Mark
Justin
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37 posts in 648 days
posted 623 days ago
Man Gary, Thats got to be the coolest box ever. Very Very nice job.
So how did you fair in the box build off?
Justin
Jarrod Zion Murphree
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348 posts in 614 days
posted 611 days ago
Sweeeeeeeeet Jesus.
-- Jarrod, Taos, NM http://jzmurphree.wordpress.com/
Sparky977
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56 posts in 611 days
posted 609 days ago
Wow, just plain WOW! This really is one of the most impressive pieces I’ve ever seen. I suddenly feel very humbled! I definitely know that I will have to create something truly stunning if I plan on entering any of these contests. :)
-- I get payed to play with power tools! What could be better than that?
yippee
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9 posts in 609 days
posted 608 days ago
how ingenious – I need one of those!!
-- Currently-from-Grand-Rapids-but-looking-to-move-to-beautiful-Traverse-City ... :)
DAN
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6435 posts in 874 days
posted 604 days ago
precision … what tolerance did you use for the sliding dovetails ?
-- work from your heart and your spirit will live forever
GaryK
home | projects | blog
9518 posts in 879 days
posted 604 days ago
Nothing specific.
They were a little tight until I rubbed a candle on them. Wax is a great lubrication for wood.
Some I had to run through the router table twice to loosen them up.
Each drawer is fixed so that it won’t slide all the way out so basically each drawer slide is hand fit.
-- Gary, East TX -- The longest journey begins with a single step.
Earle Wright
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123 posts in 611 days
posted 602 days ago
Gary,
The visual impact of your work in this box is breathtaking, to say the least, but I think I’m most impressed by the mental process you went through in designing the ‘box’. You’ve maintained great proportion from the smallest elements through their combination into the larger box. And, your choice of materials and the craftsmanship to incorporate them does justice to the excellent design.
Several people have published glossy books of exceptional and unusual boxes (i.e., “The Art of Making Elegant Wood Boxes”, by Tony Lydgate). Yours should be featured in the next compendium published!
-- Earle Wright, Lenoir City, Tennessee
pappyjohn
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138 posts in 604 days
posted 601 days ago
Gary,
I just checked out your box of drawers that you made for your wife. I’m totally new at this Site, and I say Hellava Job, I feel privelaged to be able to view your projects, and have the honor of your Comments on mine, just want to say there’s some Top woodworkers out there and Then there’s GARY, Trully Awesome Work Brother…..your brother in woodworking John
-- Your Brother in WoodWorking John, Pittsburgh , PA.
pappyjohn
home | projects | blog
138 posts in 604 days
posted 601 days ago
Oh Gary, by the way, Tell me that you won the Contest, should have been a hands down win…...your brother in woodworking John
-- Your Brother in WoodWorking John, Pittsburgh , PA.
Doug S.
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305 posts in 599 days
posted 598 days ago
Gary
That is awesome good work. The full extension drawer slides are pretty similar to something I’ve been planning for quite a while (if I can ever stop working ON the shop instead of IN it). I’ve got a question on the stops. Are you able to remove the drawers or are they pretty much sealed in there? One poster on FWW’s Knots forum did something with spring loaded stops that would catch the drawer but a paperclip pushed through a pin hole in the sides of the slides would push it down into the DT slot so that you could slide them out of the case. I was mulling about a similar but slightly less complex idea but wondered how you handled it if they’re removable.
-- Use the fence Luke
GaryK
home | projects | blog
9518 posts in 879 days
posted 598 days ago
Doug. The drawers are semi permament. There is a 1/8” peg press fit into the bottom of each
drawer that locks in the drawer. You just need something to push it out to remove the drawer.
-- Gary, East TX -- The longest journey begins with a single step.
SteveKorz
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2030 posts in 605 days
posted 598 days ago
WOW!... GARY… I have no Idea what to say… I actually stopped breathing for a bit when I was looking at the pics… slobbered a little, I think…
Wow!... I just can’t get over the pics of it… over the top NICE!! You have some INCREDIBLE talent!... If I didn’t live 2000 miles away, I’d be in your shop BEGGING you to teach me… lol…
Great job…
-- As iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another. (Proverbs 27:17) †
sIKE
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1094 posts in 645 days
posted 598 days ago
GaryK,
Simply inspiring! This is the type of work that I would like to do. I hereby will refer to you as Master Woodworker GaryK.
-- //FC - Round Rock, TX - "Experience is what you get just after you need it"
FJPetruso
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163 posts in 601 days
posted 597 days ago
Bravo! Truely a work of art
-- Frank, Florissant, Missouri "The New Show-Me Woodshop"
dickvn
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8 posts in 608 days
posted 597 days ago
Gary, that is absolutely fabulous. I’m sure glad my needleworking wife isn’t looking over my shoulder right now—no way would I attempt something as complex as that. I’m in awe!.
-- dickvn,Virginia,vannierop@urgrad.rochester.edu
USCJeff
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899 posts in 959 days
posted 588 days ago
Gary, Missed this when you posted it. WOW. Only 4 weeks, huh. That looks like a lifetime work in my shop. I’m with sIKE, Master Woodworker GaryK. The inlay must’ve been tedious, but obviously rewarding. Lacking the words, so simply, good job.
-- Jeff, South Carolina
jeanmarc
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1750 posts in 607 days
posted 585 days ago
hi gary Very beautiful box.
-- jeanmarc manosque france
ejv
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28 posts in 574 days
posted 574 days ago
Man, this is a work of art! Truly outstanding craftsmanship.
-- Eric - Nashville, Tennessee
Peter O
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1015 posts in 765 days
posted 561 days ago
Gary, I came back to look again … needed some inspiration for full-extension wood drawer glides. This project is truly amazing.
-- http://www.north40custom.com -- http://north40studios.etsy.com --
Rob
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197 posts in 558 days
posted 555 days ago
This is a whole other realm of woodworking that I’m not ready to know exists. I thought for a second, “Hey, so did he win the contest?” But I just can’t even ask that. You’ve definitely won something special, even if only the admiration and respect of all the above.
John Gray
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1742 posts in 776 days
posted 555 days ago
To nice for words to describe. Please keep us informed on your projects?
-- Only the Shadow knows....................
Dusty56
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3455 posts in 579 days
posted 505 days ago
I guess we won’t be seeing Norm build one of these any time soon on TV !!! I’m overwhelmed with the details you have put into this sweet invention of yours … Great job to say the least : ) I actually had to go get my ruler to look at 17” and I just can’t believe you were able to construct such an elaborate box on such a small scale ! Happy Fourth of July to you Gary : )
-- You know you're getting old when you know the difference between you're (you are) and your (belonging to you) AND how to use them in a sentence .
GaryK
home | projects | blog
9518 posts in 879 days
posted 492 days ago
Well, it looks like Fine Woodworking is not interested in my box.
The following is the reply I got from them.
“This piece was a difficult one for us to evaluate because it is very complex. It’s very personal and not something we would do a project on, and it won’t work for the gallery because we’d have to show too many photos to get the point across. If we can squeeze in one detail shot with a piece we’re lucky.”
Oh, well.
-- Gary, East TX -- The longest journey begins with a single step.
Quixote
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167 posts in 529 days
posted 492 days ago
How bittersweet.
On the bright side, if “Fine Woodworking” says you’re piece is too good for their readers to comprehend, that has to put the rest of us in especially elite company…
Q
-- I don't make sawdust...I produce vast quantities of "Micro Mulch."
mcoyfrog
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809 posts in 485 days
posted 472 days ago
Holy crikie you are when heck of an engineer, planner, designer, whatever. This is awesome.. Dug
-- Wood and Glass they kick (well you know) Have a great day - Dug
WhattheChuck
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83 posts in 451 days
posted 447 days ago
Hi Gary—I’m new around here—
That thing is awesome—kinda paradigm-breaking. Had me fooled from the first picture.
Don’t worry about FWW—I’m so tired of seeing that one reproduction secretary (Townshend, I think)—they’re not getting it like they used to.
-- Chuck, Pullman, WA
alanealane
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174 posts in 781 days
posted 437 days ago
I must add to the long list of compliments. I tried to navigate away from this page but my fingers typed this before I had time to react!! LOL
Keep it up!!
-- Lane Custom Guitars and Basses
Miket
home | projects | blog
265 posts in 663 days
posted 436 days ago
I forgot how cool looking this box is. I’m still amazed!
-- It's better to have people think you're stupid rather than open your mouth and remove all doubt.
Wade Putnam
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63 posts in 620 days
posted 403 days ago
Gary, You have raised the bar on the quality and the coolness of projects on LumberJocks.
Absolutely beautiful work,
-- Wade, Nashville, www.casetn.com
roman
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1106 posts in 784 days
posted 308 days ago
I am definitly impressed and made the error of showing this to the wife.
Thats a LOT of dedication and perserverance, self dicsipline…......exceptional.
I’m not a fan of piano hinge but all the same, I could forgive it, in this example.
Cheers
-- http://www.furnituremann.ca/
TopamaxSurvivor
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2980 posts in 567 days
posted 271 days ago
WOW!! You must have the patience of Job!!
-- Debt is nothing more than the 21st Century's form of slavery.
GaryK
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9518 posts in 879 days
posted 262 days ago
Since Fine Woodworking doesn’t want to put this box in their magazine I am going to enter it into their Box contest they currently (3-2009) having.
We shall see how they judge it.
-- Gary, East TX -- The longest journey begins with a single step.
roman
home | projects | blog
1106 posts in 784 days
posted 262 days ago
TopamaxSurvivor…...............a client asked my name once not knowing my name nor did he know that the cheque he made out to me…...........was indeed me so I told him my name was “Job” and he asked me if that was like “Job”in the bible and spelt the same and I replied yes. He went on and asked if my name “Job” was like the same guy in the bible who got swallowed by a whale and again I replied “Yes”. He went on again and asked me if I believed in that biblical crap and I replied “When I die and go to heaven I’ll ask Job if its true” and he replied “What if Job went to hell” and I replied “Then you ask him”
GaryK…...................I hope you win and have always wondered why “some” pieces get into FWW and others dont. Gotta wonder about what judge is working what day and what they did the night before judgment!
-- http://www.furnituremann.ca/
spanky46
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736 posts in 281 days
posted 243 days ago
Your in a league of your own! To count you as a fellow jock is an honor!
-- spanky46 -- Never enough clamps...Never enough tools...Never enough time.
Emeralds
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155 posts in 453 days
posted 243 days ago
Gary, you win “Joe’s” Creative Design Award, “Joe’s” Tedious Workmanship Award, “Joe’s” I Wish I Had Your Talent award and most of all…
“Joe’s” prestigeous WTF Were You Thinking trophy!... :)
A beautiful piece. Congratulations on the recognition which is obviously well deserved.
Joe
-- JMP
Festool4
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76 posts in 669 days
posted 242 days ago
Innovative, original, and extremely well executed… I think you have a winner there.
-- Festool4
Grampa
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19 posts in 325 days
posted 230 days ago
Totally incredible!!!!!!
-- -- Doug H, MI
Pinsker
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7 posts in 185 days
posted 127 days ago
Unbelievable
patron
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2365 posts in 232 days
posted 127 days ago
straight to the top !
a beautifull and well designed piece .
into my favorites now .
thank you gary .
-- david ,new mexico ,allheart
c1ro3m
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12 posts in 126 days
posted 124 days ago
This is absolutly stunning
Rick
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63 posts in 101 days
posted 100 days ago
That’s rediculous! It so quirky and cool. It doesn’t make sense but it does. You know? I love it.
BHawk
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24 posts in 102 days
posted 100 days ago
That is the coolest thing I have ever seen!
-- Why do you have to die with the most tools to win? I want to live with the most tools!
RexMcKinnon
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643 posts in 86 days
posted 72 days ago
I have been just killing time browsing LumberJocks looking at the most discussed. There’s a reason this is the most discussed. WOW.
-- If all you have is a hammer, everything looks like a nail!
SCOTSMAN
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2237 posts in 476 days
posted 72 days ago
Really very well made and incredibly beautiful great design and workmanship well done.Alistair
-- excuse my typing as I have a form of parkinsons disease
GaryK
home | projects | blog
9518 posts in 879 days
posted 55 days ago
Well, it turns out that the wife is having trouble moving this around when she wants to use it, so I have decided to sell it. It does weigh about 60 pounds.
You can find it here if you are interested.
http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=31607837
This is the first thing I have ever offered for sale and it saddens me, but I am just running of room for all my projects.
-- Gary, East TX -- The longest journey begins with a single step.