2x4 vs Walnut Box

Feb 25

I tried to do “fine woodworking” with 2x4 construction lumber in a previous video. Unfortunately, it made some people ANGRY. The goal in the previous video was to use construction lumber to batch out wood boxes to sell and turn a profit. Could I build $200-$250 worth of boxes from the 2x4 I used?

The overall argument was that the wood boxes I made were worth perhaps $5 at most because…they came from a 2x4. So, I decided to do a test. In this video I’m building and comparing two wooden boxes. One is made from construction lumber and one is made from walnut. I want the boxes to be identical in every way. Afterwards, we can assess their “value” and if they are what some people consider fine woodworking, which is a subjective term!

And just to set the record straight, I did sell the two pine boxes I made in the previous video. I listed them online and sold them to complete strangers for $30 each. That would put me right in the ball park of what I said the video. I guess they certainly are worth more than $5 like so many people declared.

The takeaway from the box shootout is obviously subjective. We each place a value on things based on our budget and taste. My takeaway is that it is difficult for some people to see the book past the cover. They will see it was a 2x4 and expect it to be 2x4 quality, not looking at the actual craftmanship and woodworking skills involved in its construction. At the same time, people tend to praise the woodworking skill of makers when they see something that uses beautiful wood, placing a higher value on the quality of the item without considering its construction or design. We are visual creatures and that may deter someone from woodworking in their shops and making awesome things because they feel they don’t have pretty enough lumber. I’m here to say that there are many of us who can see the skill and craftsmanship involved in making a wood box and the lack of expensive materials shouldn’t dissuade people from honing their woodworking skills and making things they are proud of.

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