On to our next project: a steamer trunk. This project was built and filmed in an effort to assist my new friend, Duane. The video gives the whole story. And here is a forum thread about the project: Wood Whisperer Forum
This first part focuses on building the frames that make up the sides of the trunk case. I cover numerous topics, but I spend a significant amount of time on grain matching. And since I don’t work with plans on the show very often, I thought it would be good to review some tips, tricks, and overall strategy for working with plans. I am incorporating a few notable changes to the original plan. First is the joinery of the corner “legs”. I will be using a rabbet instead of a reinforced miter. The second, and most dramatic change is the top. The plan calls for an arched top, and I have opted for a square top.
For the Sketchup File of the new revised top, click here. For a PDF version of the new top, click here.
And if you would like to donate to the cause, please check out the following links:
American Cancer Society
James Cancer Center
![]() | Steamer Trunk Plan and Hardware This plan shows you how to build your very own classic trunk… |
-- For free video tutorials and other cool woodworking stuff, check out http://www.TheWoodWhisperer.com


















8 comments so far
Rogue
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255 posts in 1642 days
#1 posted 1550 days ago
Mark this might be a nice chance to show something I’ve always wanted to see done. A quartsawn white oak trunck would look awsome if it were fumed. Infact I’m working on a table out of the same stuff that I was thinking of trying it on. It would be nice to see a demo before I attempt it. What do you think.
-- Rogue
thewoodwhisperer
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581 posts in 2356 days
#2 posted 1550 days ago
Well the trunk is already complete. I am actually filming the hardware installation today and its a done deal. I kept the finish simple on this one and kept it natural.
If you need some tips on the process, just email me and I would be glad to point you in the right direction.
-- For free video tutorials and other cool woodworking stuff, check out http://www.TheWoodWhisperer.com
1banger
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12 posts in 1550 days
#3 posted 1550 days ago
Wow that was fast! I’m just getting started on mine.
-- BarryR Virginia
DannyBoy
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521 posts in 2037 days
#4 posted 1550 days ago
The plan looks great. I can’t wait to see the finished product. Duane is lucky to have a friend like you nearby. (Any chance of you moving to sunny, cold, and wet Kansas City?) 8-)
~DB
-- He said wood...http://hickbyassociation.blogspot.com/
ND2ELK
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13495 posts in 1946 days
#5 posted 1550 days ago
Made one of these for a Christmas present. Turned out great if you care to look at my projects. Thanks for posting.
God Bless
tom
-- Mc Bridge Cabinets, Iowa
suebee
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34 posts in 1789 days
#6 posted 1550 days ago
Wow I always wanted to make one of these. Now I have something to look forward to once the floors are done! Thanks Mark!
-- sues
martin007
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141 posts in 1947 days
#7 posted 1549 days ago
Mark, you have got a big hart. I will surely give this project a try sometime in the future
-- Martin, Gatineau, Québec
pyromedic602
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164 posts in 1920 days
#8 posted 1520 days ago
I always enjoy watching your videos. I never fail to learn something new.
-- Pyromedic602, free wood is always good wood
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