The show is just one week away, and pressure is mounting in the shop to finish projects and prepare for the exhibition and reception. Barring any major catastrophes, I should finish my cabinet tomorrow morning. All I have left to do is install the brass hangers that will attach the cabinet to the wall and mount the door.
The last few steps in the furniture making process often prove to be the most difficult. I struggled the last couple weeks with the small details, like drawer pulls and the necklace hanger, that can enhance or detract from a piece. The last hurdle that I overcame was the necklace hanger. I knew I wanted to mount it to the back panel to hang five or so necklaces, but I had a really hard time finding a pretty shape that didn't look too rustic or like a towel bar. I also disliked the pegs and hooks I shaped. It was challenging to balance utility with beauty. With my instructors' help, I finally settled on an elegant solution. (More on that tomorrow!)
Making the brass cabinet hangers was a fun diversion from woodworking because working metal is very different than working wood. Wood is organic and unpredictable, whereas brass is completely malleable. Metal does what you ask it to.
Below are pictures of the cabinet hangers and the drawers with their hand-carved pulls and pigskin lining. Check back tomorrow for photos of the necklace hanger and finished cabinet!
Where did you get those cabinet hangers?! I've been trying to find some like them. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteWhere did you get those cabinet hangers?! I've been trying to find some like them. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteThanks for your nice comment. I made the hangars from brass stock. You need to have a drill press, a counter sink, and a file, otherwise it's quite easy!
DeleteGain immediate access to 16,000 woodworking plans.
ReplyDeleteTeds Woodworking has over 16,000 woodworking plans with STEP BY STEP instructions, drawings and blueprints to make every project very easy!