Making
Heirloom Boxes
by Peter Lloyd
Softcover
210 x 275mm
170pp
Published by Guild of Master Craftsman Publications Ltd, East Sussex UK
R.R.P.$39.90
ISBN 1-86108-176-6
Desk Box
Tilt Hinge Box
Mitered Finger-Hole Box
Cash Box
Writing Slope
Work Box
Stationery Box
As reviewed in The Australian Woodworker Issue 115
If you are interested in making exquisite boxes that will be kept for generations, Making Heirloom Boxes by Peter Lloyd is a valuable source of step-by-step projects and ideas for the intermediate to advanced woodworker.
Included are instructions for 11 boxes in categories such as Pivot Hinge, Strap Hinge, Back Hinge and From the Inside Out. Close-up photographs and drawings of each aspect of the box-making techniques, tool use and construction methods are provided throughout the book.
Knowing the characteristics and properties of the wood you are working with is important. The section on sourcing stock and familiarising yourself with how it is seasoned will help minimise potential problems such as movement, cupping or twisting when your project is completed.
The author states that he began making boxes with a few handtools, a bench with a vise and a few portable electric tools. Over the years many tools and machines have been accumulated, so he is able to provide useful guidance on the variety of handtools, power tools, stationary machines and jigs which can be used for box making.
Basic Techniques, the second chapter, discusses how to map out the design and dimensions of the box on your material, select a suitable finish, make specific components (with a focus on trays), successfully fabricate dovetails and add embellishments such as felt lining.
Much of the book is devoted to the different box projects, beginning with the pivot hinge Desk Box. Each project provides a logical progression of construction, starting with your choice of wood, the process of preparation (cutting and squaring the pieces), the construction of the carcass and lid, and the final shaping and finishing. Additional information covers specific jointwork or features such as the pegs for the Desk Box.
While the book is very well illustrated with drawings and photographs, cutting lists and dimensioned drawings are not provided. However, once you have decided on the size of box to make and the components required (with the assistance of the exploded diagrams), the text and illustrations provide plenty of detail to guide you through the construction process.
The rustic strap hinge Stationary Box (shown on the cover of the book) offers an attractive range of features. These include the carved, sweeping curves on the front and lid of the box, two interior trays for accessories, dovetailed sides and strap hinges attached using wooden pegs.
Lloyd's version of a back hinge Chess Box was designed and specifically balanced for a triple-weighted Staunton chess set. It includes the use of dovetail joints and parquetry. A T-jig - the design of which is included in Chapter two - is used for sanding the chess squares, in conjunction with a home-made disc sander.
Making Heirloom Boxes encourages the reader to take their time and adjust the design and specifications to suit their requirements. The calibre of the projects, appropriate selection of materials and attention to detail will produce boxes that will last for many years.
Photos: Colour
Units of Measurement: Metric & Imperial
Contents
Introduction
Sourcing
and Seasoning Wood
Tools and Equipment
Basic Techniques
Pivot
Hinge
Desk Box
Tilt Hinge Box
Mitered Finger-Hole Box
Cash
Box
Writing Slope
Strap
Hinge
Work Box
Stationery Box
Back
Hinge
Jewelry Box
Chess Box
From
The Inside Out
Spoon Box
Skeleton Box
Gallery
About the author
Index
Jewelry Box
Chess Box
Spoon Box
Skeleton Box