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Ahhh… After posting a bazillion entries in my blog series as I agonized over every single step of the process over a period of about six months, I'm happy to finally be able to post this in the Projects section. This was my very first foray into the art of fine woodworking, and what an education it was.

I plan on writing one last blog entry for the series, just reflecting on the journey.

If you want the details on the construction, you can read about it all in the series, but I just want to say up front that, flaws and all, I'm proud to have made this box entirely by hand. The only tool I plugged into the wall was the woodburner that I used to write my initials (and a heart) in the bottom for my wife.

I also want to say a big huge THANK YOU to all my fellow Jocks out there who gave me encouragement and tips along the way. I received 133 comments in reponse to my blog entries on the box. This box would have looked entirely different (for the worse) if not for you all. So thanks.

P.S. My apologies for the first picture. My wife called it "garish" - but I really struggled with how to photograph this! Any tips?

Gallery

Comments

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Flaws are merely an expression of character; a reflection of the path to completion. They are not necessarily a bad thing, and in this case they are an example of tenacity and acquired experience. You've got a good box that contains your personal touch. Definitely something to be proud of.
 

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I have attempted to make my wife a box many times, I finally have because of this site and what I have learned. Your box will last forever and all hand done, that I have not attempt yet.

Thanks for the post Ron
 

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This is a wonderful handmade box. Excellent work!

As far as the photography, it looks pretty good to me. The only tip I always pass on is to try photographing your projects outdoors on a sunny day. A little contrast between bright light and shadow makes everything look better, IMO
 

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Thanks, Charlie. If I ever get in the mood, I might just try that and swap a photo or two, if they turn out better.
 

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that is one good looking box - nicely done! (I really like that inlay on the top and inside of the top)
 

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As we say in Texas, "Turned out right nice." Keep up the good work.
 

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Thanks guys! And PurpLev - the inlay on the top and inside are one and the same (which you may have gathered)!
 

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When you are photgraphing things like this it really helps to have a camera that allows you to have an off camera flash. When I am doing this kind of shoot, I have my regular flash on a stand and use my on camera flash to trigger the off camera flash. Depending on the size of the box you could build a small light box using a WHITE sheet on a small open frame then shoot the off camera flash through the sheet, that will help diffuse the light some.
 

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Very nice, I'm sure your wife loves it!
 

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@depictureboy: Thanks for the tips!
 

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What a little gem! I love your handmade style. This came out beautifully.
 
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