GeneralHome Accessories

Veneered-Top Jewelry Box

This is my first project using veneer, a jewelry/keepsake box in mahogany with a Karelian birch book-matched veneer top.  I think the burl figure and colors are gorgeous and complement the dark mahogany perfectly.  Karelian birch is sourced from northern Europe (Karelia), specifically between Finland and Russia.  I had never heard of this species and only discovered it while searching for a burl-type veneer that would pair with mahogany in a spectacular fashion; in my opinion this combination is fantastic!   (The last photo posted below shows a better view of the veneered top.)

An interesting design feature of this box is the manner in which the drawer front fits into the case in a tight, mitered fit.  Disclaimer:  This is not my design and I reproduced it from Woodsmith magazine (Vol. 24, No. 139).  I finished the piece with an oil-varnish blend followed by Liberon  wax.  The hardware is all polished brass and the top compartment and drawer are lined with black velvet.  Overall dimensions are approximately 13″ w x 11″ d x 7″ h.  This piece was a great woodworking experience beyond the veneering aspects; splined miters for case construction and butt hinge installation add to the design details.  I will likely save this piece for a local Arts & Craft show this coming summer (2020) and not list in my Etsy shop.