My husband gifted me at Christmas with a beautiful wooden memory box you handcrafted.  It is exquisite and is perfect for storing the letters, cards, and drawings I received from the school children I taught during my 36 year career. Finally, I was able to get those special papers out of ragged manila envelopes! I am so pleased with the smoothness of the box's finish and the detail given to its design. The addition of the trays was a great idea! They helped me divide the early years from the more recent ones. Your woodwork has received many compliments from visitors to our home. Thank you for collaborating with my husband to prepare this very special gift that is filled with many wonderful memories.

MC  - Kathleen, GA (2008)

Paul,

The memory box is absolutely more beautiful than I ever imagined.  When I saw it tears came to my eyes.  It is exactly what I wanted to give to my wife to place her 36 years of memories of teaching in.  It will remain a heirloom in my family for many years to come.  I placed a copy of your story about the wood and the process of making in the box and it will remain there
forever.  Thank you for your time and effort to make such a beautiful piece of art.  There aren't many people that have the God given talent that you do.  Continue to use that talent to make people happy.  I am sure my wife will be contacting you after Christmas day to express her appreciation.  I wish you and your family a Merry Christmas.

Bob - Kathleen, GA (2008)

Project Details

The custom mitered box is made from black walnut with a cherry accent at the bottom with a top panel made from cherry.  The two removeable trays are made of ambrosia maple and walnut.  The box bottom is a solid black walnut  panel.  Solid brass box hinges were used that hold the lid open just past vertical.  The box was finished with General Finishes Arm-R-Seal which is a combination of tung oil and polyurethane.