Carved walnut box (wedding gift)

A close family member was getting married and I wanted to “make them something out of wood”. Since they live overseas, actual furniture would have been difficult to ship. After some deliberation, I came up with a dual-use box. The groom enjoys rum from all different countries and I figured every bride can use a place to store her jewelry.

The box was made from black walnut with a maple liner. The exterior was hand carved and the top and bottom are endgrain panels which have been sanded perfectly smooth.

With the groom being a rum connoisseur, I wanted to give him something special yet local. I chose a bottle of End of Days Rum, made in Wilmington, NC.

The inside lid has a panel made of purpleheart wood to commemorate their wedding day.

Two removable inserts are also made from purpleheart, with aluminum accent pins. The inside has been “flocked” for a velvety finish to protect jewelry.

The walnut box was treated with hardwax oil for a warm and pleasant finish.

Underside with felt pads.

I explained to the groom that after he finishes the rum he will be responsible for giving his new wife “things” to fill the box. His response: “I think I’ll let that rum age a bit longer!” LOL