Keepsake Box For A Sailboat Captain
This is a good example of the type of projects that I do for my customers. Typically, they will provide a reference photograph and a design request for a gift. In this case a woman wanted to give her husband, an avid sailor, a keepsake box as a gift. She wanted an image of their sailboat on the lid. She provided the attached photo as a guide. The box that I made from walnut has an upper compartment and a drawer for storage of small items and mementos of their sailing adventures. The interior portion of the lid is created from book matched walnut veneers My goal is not to provide an exact duplicate of the photograph, but rather an impression of the subject in wood, with the colors and grains of the wood inlays providing an impression of the subject that elicits the emotions associated with the subject. Consequently, the design phase of the project is conducted as a dialogue and iterative process until I am sure I understand the requirements for the project.
Type
- wood
Material
- walnut
Function
- storage
Size
- small
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
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.
A K
May 25, 2022From the initial ideation to the final delivery of the project, it was an absolute pleasure working with Dennis. The finished product is simply beautiful and it has exceeded all my expectations. It is stunning in person. The design, wood selection, fit and finish, everything is just perfect. I'm very happy with the final outcome of the project and really appreciate the way Dennis has patiently accommodated all my requests and built an amazing piece of functional art. I would strongly recommend Dennis for anyone considering uniquely beautiful custom woodwork.
Aaron Kruse
May 7, 2022I am very pleased with the project I received. Dennis was very thorough with details and completed this project well ahead of the originally proposed completion date. His communication throughout the construction process was reassuring and informative. The quality of the project is phenomenal. He is definitely very adept at his craft and no imperfections can be see on the jewelry box. The packaging for the project was very well done and it arrived very quickly. 10/10 , I would absolutely purchase from Dennis again.
Christine Johnson
Apr 30, 2022My jewelry box is beautiful! Dennis made it to my specifications and I couldn't be more pleased. Dennis is an exceptional craftsman and I had the opportunity to meet him when I picked pup my jewelry box in person. Thank you Dennis.
