In the early 90’s I was commissioned to design a flatware chest with the only stipulations being that it hold twelve place settings and not look like a flatware chest. Other than that, I had complete design freedom.  I made an outer case and then concealed a separate box with drawers within that case.  The outer case of maple and mahogany features a skirt made from cherry wood I got from a tree that I cut down and let dry for several years.  The lid is of maple but has a center section of cherry from that same tree.  The inner case is also of maple and mahogany and has the only dovetail joint I’ve ever done.

Since I never worked from plans an integral part of the design process was to sit back and smoke a cigarette while contemplating my next move.  Three months after completing this piece I quit smoking and lost all interest in woodworking.