Ontario Farm Keepsake Box
The marquetry design on the lid of this box is based on an old line drawing of the Salter family farm in Ontario, Canada. The buyer asked me to create this box for Gladys, who lived on the farm as a young girl. The box is made of walnut and measures 14 X 14 X 6 inches. The marquetry is composed of several different exotic hard woods including bocote, ebony, and holly. The box and removable tray are lined with red velvet. The inlay on the inside of the lid provides an additional personal touch to what will become a family heirloom.
Type
- wood
Material
- exotic
Material
- walnut
Function
- farm
Meet the Maker
Dennis Chenoweth
Dennis Chenoweth
I am a retired physician who makes jewelry, keepsake, memorial, and decorative boxes that are typically commissioned by people who wish to give them as gifts. I have been doing this for several years, but have focused on working with exotic hardwoods and more intricate designs since I retired about three years ago. While there are a lot of woodworkers who enjoy making small boxes, I believe that I have been able to differentiate myself from them because I have developed my marquetry skills and now do almost all my decorative and inlay work with a double bevel technique that I learned from the artisan David Marks.
I work alone and handcraft every item to meet the unique specifications of my customers. Typically, they provide me with a reference image and a design request. I then execute the project in about 2 to 3 weeks, spending about an equal amount of time on the construction and finishing of the work. A typical example of this is provided in my project entitled “Keepsake Box for Sailboat Captain.” In addition, I make some of my own designs that I sell. The butterfly marquetry jewelry box project is a good example of this.
My goal is to have the joy of engaging in my hobby while recovering the cost of my materials while have a bit extra to add a few new tools. But, most importantly, I want to be able to provide a unique prized decorative box that fills a special need.
Customer Reviews
Nick Horlings
Jan 16, 2023Absolutely hands down the best experience I've had with a merchant. The quality of the craftsmanship is remarkable, and my wife loved everything about it. We encountered issues with the postal service & international shipping, with USPS & Canada Post having damaged the item. Dennis patiently kept on top of these issues, despite them carrying on far past the order and delivery date. We originally ordered our item in June and even in January of the next year he was still in touch to ensure everything was in order. When we encountered difficulties claiming the insurance on the package, Dennis kindly offered to fully repair the item for free and paid for the return shipping out of pocket. I couldn't ask for a better experience from someone online. Communication was nothing short of excellent, and the entire experience was phenomenal. 10/10.
Tyson Woeste
Mar 28, 2016Dennis was great. Patient with my various requests and creative in his solutions to the various challenges my project entailed. Would hire again for sure!
eric brock
Dec 17, 2022Received the project yesterday as we were told. Great workmanship. Was done in the timeframe and as we discussed. Completely satisfied and sure my granddaughter will enjoy for years to come.
Roland Skinner
Sep 13, 2022I was very pleased with the whole process. Mr. Chenoweth was easy to communicate with and the keepsake box is excellent in workmanship and beautiful.
Matthew Previts
Dec 27, 2013Excellent craftsmanship, complete and timely communication. This is an top notch professional that I strongly recommend. Thank you for you work!