Air Force Symbol Dual-Tone Shadow And Flag Box
A coworker who was planning for his retirement from the Air Force approached me about building him a shadowbox for the occasion. He didn't have an exact picture in his head as to what he wanted, but he did want the symbol and room for the flag in the base. Apart from that, he left me to my devices. I created a box with a clipped top that extended the lines of the symbol but not to the point of looking awkward. The box has three levels: the box which contains the items, the front panel and the stripes. The stripes were stained darker than the rest of the box for extra definition and the edges were treated with a 45 degree chamfer. Although I was hoping for a bigger difference between the stains, it was enough to be noticeable. The front panel behind the symbol is 3/4" thick while the top and bottom are closer to 1/4" and are similarly treated with a chamfered edge. I used hand chisels to trim the interior corners. The frame on the back was where I started, as well as the cause of some initial angst. I was afraid there would be multiple opportunities to err in snaking the blocks behind the symbol, and then have the joints be strong enough to support the weight. The top of the flag box features a handmade variable box joint for extra strength and hidden splines are cut into the sides to seat the upper half of the box. This was also supported by the fixed shelf above. The front was fitted with plexiglas and the back is covered with blue suede fabric.
Matthew White
Delta Black Custom Woodworking
Fort Walton Beach, FLLong-time member
A Maker who has been a valued part of this community for several years.
Fast shipper
Customers say that this Maker ships promptly after completing a project.
Great service
This Maker has consistently demonstrated excellence in craftsmanship and customer service.
Good Morning. My name is Matthew White and I've been a woodworker since 1998. I'm mostly self-taught and I've been adding to my skills ever since.
By day I'm in the Air Force and I found woodworking to be an excellent creative release. It's also given me the opportunity to give back to those who have served.
I've burned murals for conference centers, built shadow boxes for retired Chiefs, and had my work grace offices in Washington D.C. I've had my work presented to Colonels and Airmen completing basic training.
It has been an awesome experience to share and I'm always open to a new project or challenge.
- LM
Lisa Miller
For Military Shadow Table5.0Matthew White made just the right table I was looking for. He was an excellent help with stain color choice, and answered my questions quickly, professionally, and concisely. The table is absolutely beautiful, and we can't wait to display it proudly in our new home. The assembly was intuitive and easy, and the table was shipped extremely well-packed. I will absolutely contact Matt and Delta Black for future projects. Thank you!
- DG
Dan Grimmer
For Dan's Chessboard5.0I was first a little apprehensive about having something made through this site. I was worried about the quality of work that i'd be getting and how much things would cost.
Matthew White really does do good work. He posted pictures through the different stages of the project which made me feel involved. I also showed me that he was actively working on the project to get it done in a timely manner. I was expecting good work….and got excellence instead! He personalized the piece and showed that he is both an artist as well as a carpenter. I would definitely go to him again for future projects! 
AOAngela Olguin
For Retirement Shadow Box For Air Force Eod Technician (All Occupational Badges Available)5.0Matthew was very quick to communicate and was very thorough in his description of the item. It came exactly as described in a very timely manner. It is beautifully made and very sturdy. I'd definitely recommend and work with him again.
Thank you very much, Matthew
- JH
Jennifer Hartt
For EOD SHADOW BOX5.0Matt did a fantastic job and I can’t wait to give to my husband for his birthday. Matt was great at communicating the whole time and was quick! Thank you Matt!!
- JS
Janice Sanders
For whiskey presentation box5.0Matt did a fantastic job on the whisky box for my hubby's bottle of Pappy, really makes for a wonderful Christmas gift! Great Comms, super well built, fantastic packaging - thanks Matt will send you a pic!
Maker Policies
Discover true craftsmanship each week
A guide to the best items from the best makers and the stories behind them.