Jim Shaver Oakville, Ont.
>Hi,

Over the years I have been a woodworker I have made a lot of projects. I have always learnt a great deal from project to project and felt that I was doing well in my learning. Up until now though I had never made a project from stock to finished work with only hand tools and methods. This project represents my first attempt at just that, and of course instead of just practicing I went for a finished project right out of the gate (when will I learn!).

It’s a simple basic lap desk, it features curly soft spalted maple. The wood was bought at the Woodstock wood show in 2005. I was attracted to the idea of using wood that this certain vendor was selling, he harvests urban woods.

I had the few boards set aside for door panels or the like until I got the idea to build a lap desk. The wood was milled prior to purchase but I planed it to an even 3/8”. The wood was cut to length with a hand saw and I discovered the importance in a true bench hook in establishing square stock.

The finish is simple, several applications of a clear Danish oil. The top coat is 3 coast of clear shellac, rubbed out with 0000 steel wool followed with a furniture wax.

The tops are hinged with solid brass hinges from Lee Valley, I also incorporated some rare earth magnets as catches for the tops. I fully morticed the hinges into the case as the top is 3/8” and I could not find shallow enough hinge screws…and so it made it easier.

I had a few minor issues with the pins on my dove tails clipping along the bottom after I finished the work…

Lesson Leant: Support the dove tail pin when trimming the rabbet recess for the bottom panel.

The desk is a gift and I know it will be a special occasion when it is opened.

I learnt a great deal building this simple project. I have developed more confidence in my work with hand tools although I know now I need to work on some process details for my next work.

Working with hand tools offered me a few other rewards, mostly which I now have the sense that I control what I am making more completely than I have in the past. This first project will defiantly encourage me to do more hand work in the future.

Take care,
Jim