EWP Hutch

3/4 view right

A sort of traditional piece of furniture, the hutch has many uses in various locations throughout the home. This one will be used as an “entertainment center.” The work surface is 36” and will accomodate a stereo system. The shelves will have books, CDs and pictures. The base has one half-depth adjustble shelf and will hold many other items. All of the moldings and panel details were made in-house except for the beaded rear paneling. The finish is a traditional oilwax formula that I made. This finish is hand-applied and buffed, creating a warm satin glow. Oilwax is a great starting point for a lovely patina, which will happen slowly throughout the years. In addition, the pine will naturally oxidize, which will deepen the color while also becoming more uniform. There is no substitute for time when it comes to beautiful wood. Unlike film finishes such as polyurethane and lacquer, oilwax remains “alive” and can easily be revived or modified as needed. Maintenance is surpisingly simple and, dare I say, enjoyable. In fact, it's up to the owner how the piece ages. Keep it shiny and spotless or let it age with purpose and show the signs of life happening around it. It can be a living part of your Maine home, made in Maine by a Mainer with Maine's state tree, the Eastern White Pine.

Finished photos

front view

3/4 view left

3/4 view right

3/4 view right detail

3/4 view right lower detail

3/4 view left base detail

3/4 view left cove detail

How it was made

Making the cove

rough cut board

cut cove

multiple passes

molding lines

first two cuts

four cuts

completed

Making the vertical panels

magic molder

bead

glue-up

Making the horizontal panels

clamps

panel stack

sanding

Cutting curves and mortising for furniture connectors

curves1

curves2

curves3

furniture connectors

Making rail and stile doors

cutting grooves

shavings

layout panels

glue up

rabbet1

rabbet2

test fit

Making base and cap, trimming doors

routing base

assembling base

assembling base2

assembling cap

final door trim1

final door trim2

doors

Making beaded casing for skylights

Casing1

Casing2

Applying traditional oilwax finish

making oilwax

wax in pot

wax pad

wax r/s

wax r/s2

wax panel

wax rack

wax CT

Assembly with furniture connectors

vert panel

horiz panels

assembled