What a year of small boxes taught me

A year ago I decided to build one small box every week. I did not make it to fifty two, but I got to forty, and each one taught me something.

The biggest lesson was that accuracy comes from marking, not from cutting. When my layout lines were crisp, my joints fit. When I rushed the layout, no amount of careful sawing could save the box.

The second lesson: finish is half the project. A simple box with a good oil finish looks better than a complex one with blotchy stain.

Measure twice, mark once, and cut to the line you can see.

Next year I want to try drawers. Wish me luck.