Each box that I create is one of a kind.  I do not do production runs of one style of  box using the same combinations of woods, though I will recreate similar styles that are pleasing and functional.  Each time I start a new box, I spend time digging through my wood pile, thinking about what woods speak to me at that time and which woods complement each other.  I consider the form and function of the joinery and how it matches the woods I have selected;  does this wood have a beautiful grain that would look wonderful with a miter joint to maintain the continuity around the corners of the box, or is this wood a dense, oily tropical beauty that would do best structurally with a strong dovetail joint?  I consider whether the chosen wood suggests a form for the box.

I form an initial vision and work out the technical details, but I rarely create more than a brief sketch of the idea, to allow the piece to take on a life of its' own as I build it.  (This flexibility of vision can prove useful when the wood does not behave as expected.)  This approach keeps the building process dynamic and engaging.  It is exciting for me every step of the way to see the piece take form and gain integrity.

Materials

I use certified sustainably harvested woods as much as possible.  I enjoy using native North American hardwoods, such as madrone, claro walnut, maple, cherry, bay laurel, and many others, often originating as salvaged trees.  But I also love working with exotic hardwoods, though I recognize where these woods come from and the impact of their harvest.  Choosing certified imported woods is especially important for a variety of environmental and sociological reasons.

Tools

Over the years I have collected a nice selection of hand and power tools.  There is a brief description of my tools and shop here.

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