NEWTON MAKES

View Original

Marquetry Keepsake Box

Billy Newton

I have always wanted to try marquetry so I decided to give it a shot with this wood box project. The lid of the box has a fun diamond pattern that I created using Inkscape.  This pattern allowed me to create the marquetry design and ensure all of my pieces lined up perfectly.  I chose to use three colored wood species for my box lid.  I used bloodwood, wenge, and maple.  The thicker pieces, which were about 1/8” thick, made up the diamond marquetry design.  But it needed to be broken up visually.  I decided to add some white pinstripes but using maple veneer.  Every piece of the marquetry pattern was press fit together and taped in place.  I definitely would not call myself a marquetry expert, but after watching a few skilled people make their own marquetry patterns and pictures, I applied similar techniques and ended up with something that I’m proud of.

The marquetry pattern was only the first stage of the project.  I also needed something for it to go onto.  I made a wood box and used the pattern as the lid.  The box is made from sapele, and has wenge splines.  I spent a good amount of time deciding on the wood for the box.  I needed a wood species that wasn’t good contrasting like walnut or maple.  I felt like these would have been too much contrast compared to the diamond pattern.  At the same time, I didn’t want a box that was the same colors as the pattern because it would take away from the marquetry work.  I feel like sapele was a good balance because of the reddish / orange tint.  It coordinates but doesn’t overwhelm the fancy lid that I made.

The liner inside is made from wenge and has mitered joinery.  I installed some quality brass hinges.  And then I applied a simple wax finish, buffed to a nice sheen. 

•• About NewtonMakes••

I’m Billy and I make fun things.  Sometimes, it’s something I need like tool storage ideas.  Other times it’s silly or nerdy stuff that I want to build. If you want to get ideas for making stuff, or just want to watch something entertaining then make sure you subscribe.

 

Like that sweet t-shirt I was wearing?  Check it out here: https://newtonmakes.com/merch

 

•• My Links ••

Website: https://newtonmakes.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newtonmakes

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/newtonmakes

Join this channel's Superhero membership to access perks:

https://www.patreon.com/newtonmakes

OR

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCC6IoQwiGlJ4K8TdcSMUzSg/join

 

Here’s a list of tools and materials that I used to make this project. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

•• Tools & Materials ••

My Amazon Store: https://www.amazon.com/shop/newtonmakes