When I first saw this Guild build I knew I was going to build along.  It didn't take long to know what I was going to do with it.  I'm giving it to my son.  He's two and a half and in January he's due for a little brother or sister.  Being an older sibling myself I know what its like.  Nothing is ever really the same and nothing really belongs to just you any more (bitter anyone?).  I decided to call this the "Big Brother Box."  I told him its his treasure box to put whatever he wants in it and I'm sure he will. 

You'll notice a few things right away.  I placed the tray on the left side.  Why?  My son's left-handed and if there is any beauty to what we get to do its to customize our builds for us or for those we are building them for. You may also notice I left off a latch.  I may decide to put one on later but a two year old with a key to a locking box just sounds like a bad idea. 

Inscription

Exploring the new box.

Most prized possessions fit inside. 

Checking capacity. 

This build was a lot of firsts for me.  First set of dovetails. First mostly-hand-tools build.  First time using hide glue & milk paint.

My patience was tested throughout this process.  I learned when to call it good enough for tonight.  To get out while things were good and let my brain and hands rest. 

I learned the importance of a sharp edge, tear out, spelching and any other expletive that summarizes that feeling you have when you see a small chunk of wood disappear from exactly where you didn't want it to come from. 

I learned about being thoughtful on selecting pieces and where they go. 

I fell in love with my new block plane. 

I learned that even when I label my pieces I somehow don't follow my own plan.  

I used some scraps for this build and tried a few new things I didn't like in the end.

My wife begged me not to paint the box.  She loves the dovetails.  I wasn't thrilled with my dovetails and told her when I get better I will leave them untouched. 

I heard many stories of people immediately regretting milk paint only to put on a second coat and find they like it.  So I dove in.

This is after the second coat of milk paint.  Ultimately, I applied milk paint, shellac, and wax for the final finish.  

In all, this is a great build that anyone should try their hand at.  If you're not comfortable with hand tools there are many ways to accomplish the same outcome.  Give it a whirl, take your time and keep a sharp edge on all your tools. 

Thanks to Joe Lav and Sean for following my build on instagram and for their words of encouragement. 

Be good. 

- Joe