In the Studio

Commission in Progress - Dresser with Infant's Change Table

Main Features:

This dresser features gracefully curved corner posts, a live-edge top, raised panel sides and an infant's change table mounted on top. It will have delicately-grained air-dried maple for the framing members, bird's eye drawer fronts and side panels, with the top in heavily-figured air-dried walnut. The drawers will have beaded edges. The corner posts and other framing members will be stained to a slate hue to provide a bridge element to the other pieces the client will have in the nursery. Hardware will include full-extension Blum slides, with client-selected metal drawer handles. Finish: Hemp oil on the maple, followed by a number of coats of durable water-based acrylic on all areas of the piece, hand-rubbed to a satin sheen.

16 February - Cutting Maple Planks to Rough Dimension

The walnut plank I've chosen for the top has a very exciting grain and the edge, which I plan on keeping in its natural state will add a very interesting aspect to the piece. The maple planks are all nearly 1 1/2" thick. All wood for this piece has been air-dried, which machines very much differently than kiln-dried lumber. I will then focus on having all 48 individual pieces machined to their final dimensions in preparation for joinery.

15 February - Bringing the Rough Maple Planks into the Studio

The maple plank I've chosen for the corner posts is incredible. A full 3" thick, 8" wide and over 8' in length. The butt end features some delicate spalting, which I may try to work into the piece.

18 January - The Approved Sketch

The front sketch, shown here to scale, has been approved by the client. The second sketch has now been finalized and drawn to scale, shows the side (gable) section of the dresser. It will feature 4 raised panels on each gable, with arched top and lower rails. I've now finalized my cutting list and am proceeding with roughing out the pieces in preparation for the final milling.