One of the things that I love about woodworking is that you can take a concept of an object as simple as a square box and turn it into something extraordinary. I’ve made about 20 different boxes of widely very designs. Some quite simple and some very ornate and complex. I have made several jewelry boxes, specifically equipped with mounts and storage ideal for a variety of jewelry types, and I have made humidors featuring Spanish cedar lining on the inside to maximize humidity control.

However, I think my favorites are complex inlaid keepsake boxes. I have made about six of these specifically as gifts or commissions to new parents. The idea being that I am giving the new parents the keepsake box to keep treasures from their childhood, but I tell them my expectation is that eventually they will give the box to the child. It’s a multi-generational gift that way!

No matter what kind of box you decide you would like made, I will build it with the intention that it will stay in the test of time with solid joinery and well chosen hardwood lumber of whatever species we decide together. Please don’t ask me to use stain, I much prefer to find different species of wood to accomplish whatever contrast in color is desired.