Christmas Boards 2009

I kept busy between Thanksgiving and Christmas this year. Actually a bit crazy-busy to be honest. I wanted to make our presents this year and wanted to make sure that each one was ready to place under the Christmas trees. After delivering all of the boards to my friends and family, they all had the same reaction. "You should sell these." And so goes the beginning of my passion for making cutting boards.

Below are some photos of the various patterns I created before applying the finish. I wanted to be able to photograph the entire set before they made their way into wrapped boxes. Due to the finishing times, I knew I'd never get another opportunity for a "family" photo.

The 8 cutting boards I made for Christmas gifts. Shows the broad array of designs.

Walnut, cherry and maple stagger boards. 12" x 15" x 1.25". Recessed handles.

Solid maple zig zag boards. Not sure why, but these are still my favorite. I love the clean look. 12" x 13" x 1.25".

Maple and cherry zig zag boards. Squared edges and recessed handles. 12" x 14" x 1".

A close look at a cherry maple zig zag board. This particular maple board had very dark grain patterns, which blended well with the pinkish cherry tones.

A bread board made from cherry, mahogany, walnut and maple. 12" x 20" x .75".

Cherry Nightstand

After working with inexpensive pine from the big box stores for so long, I was anxious to try my hand at some genuine furniture building. I took a trip out to a lumber yard and bought some 8ft cherry boards. They were gorgeous. I decided that I would make a nightstand for my side of the bed. I also wanted to practice making mortise and tenon joints. So, for those of you who don't speak wood... it means there are no screws, nails or metal fasteners of any kind in the final product. It's all held together with tight fitting joints and wood glue.

I love this piece and am so proud of it. Not fancy, not a jaw-dropper, but elegant in its simplicity.

Cherry nightstand. No metal. Just love, patience and tight joints.

Cherry nightstand, ready for some books and a lamp.

Notice how the wood grains look when exposed to natural light. It's a remarkable difference.

A close up of the table top. The swirly grain patterns add a cool effect.