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Duane's Steamer Trunk

18K views 24 replies 15 participants last post by  Timthemailman 
#1 ·
Duane's Steamer Trunk Pt. 1

http://blip.tv/play/Ae7kIQA

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 PlanSteamer Trunk Plan and Hardware
This plan shows you how to build your very own classic trunk…

Steamer Trunk Plan and Hardware
 
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#2 ·
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.
 
#3 ·
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.
 
#10 ·
Duane's Steamer Trunk Pt. 2

http://blip.tv/play/AfDKRgA

Moving right along, we continue cutting and assembling parts for the steamer trunk. I spend a good deal of time on techniques that will help you when working with plans. The key is to realize that some parts need to be cut using measurements from your project, NOT from the plan itself. I also spend some time creating the thicker top panels, since they are not as simple as they appear from the outside.

Now that all the joinery is pretty much complete, I show you an alternative method for making the tongue and groove joints that could very well be faster and easier, if you have a router table. I use a tongue and groove bit set from Eagle America. Check out the links below if you are interested in going that route.

And why do I wear a dunce cap in this episode? You'll have to watch to find out.
Links:
Tongue & Groove Bit Set

Coping Sled

Razor Saw

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
 
#16 ·
Duane's Steamer Trunk #3

http://blip.tv/play/AfPoPgA

In this episode, I go over some pre-finishing tips and finish the inside of the trunk. I then go through the entire assembly and glueup process from start to finish. I then discuss the trunk's lid, which is different from the original plan. You can download a Sketchup plan for the lid here. Once the lid is glued up, I realize that rushing through this project has resulted in a number of errors. So I fix them. I know how you guys love it when I make mistakes so you won't be disappointed in this one, haha.
 
#17 ·
Thanks Marc…this was a valuable video with good lessons. Most beginning and intermediate woodworkers ARE going to make errors and knowing how to repair them or when to just rebuild is very helpful. And, as usual, you always make your videos interesting and easy to view without becoming bored.
Thanks again
 
#21 ·
Duane's Steamer Trunk #4

http://blip.tv/play/AffnEgA

The final installment of the Steamer Trunk series. I apply the faux walnut straps, apply the water-based finish using my HVLP turbine, and install the tansu hardware. All in all, this was a great project that really reinforces simple frame and panel construction. At the end of the video, I even have a little update on Duane's progress on his trunks. Things are coming along nicely. Best of luck to you Duane!

And if you would like to donate to the cause, please check out the following links:
American Cancer Society
James Cancer Center
 
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