Square lidded padauk box....

[Big Mike]

There was a turning challenge and trade on another forum involving turned boxes. That was an offer I could not refuse. The rules stipulated a box with dimensions of 3" in height and diameter minimum. That is a little larger than I like to turn for a box but I obeyed the rules. A while back I saw a box by either Ray Key or Chris Stott in a magazine and made a mental note. I decided to try it for this challenge. This was really a challenge for me and if you haven't tried turning a square piece of wood you should. Just get good health insurance. That whirling 4 cornered block of finger smashing death will get your attention....

In padauk, a wood I hate to turn, 3" in diameter and 3 1/2" tall. I even managed to get a pretty good grain match. Comments appreciated..... I included an inside view of lid to prove it is a box...

[toolferone]

Originally Posted by Big Mike

Cathy, Gator mentioned a while back possibly hosting a turning picnic at his house. If we could get a few people who have mini-lathes and George has the room we could have a wonderful day doing turning demos and telling stories and eating good food. I would love to do that with the friends of North Carolina Woodworker. Makes for a great day.

I would love to go to that. I have a mini lathe I can bring. At GAtors shop I assume the turning would be done outside? If that does not pan out I would be willing to host in my workshop (still unheated, so spring would be great) If we plan it right I could bring some of the lathes and tools from work (for either event).

As a side note Mike I love the box. I would love to turn a square edge bowl but have been real nervous to try.

[Big Mike]

Tom, let's work up some sort of a plan and do this. I have been to several woodturning picnics and they are great fun. I see no reason why we can have some fun right here at home. I will attend and demo turning boxes.... Let's line up some other demos and lathes and we can have a good time.

Thanks for the positive feedback, I appreciate it.

[cskipper]

That would be cool. Please do it on a weekend!

[stoneskippers]

I'm not a turner but., I really enjoy seeing your work. Very good and they always have very good symmetry. I'll go for picnic!!