by Diane Russo
This four drawer serpentine front chest is based on a mid to late 18th century design. (Massachusetts ) I knew I wanted to challenge myself with the construction of this chest and found an article in Popular Woodworking Magazine by Glen D. Huey (Feb. 2012) that fit the bill exactly. While not an exact reproduction of Mr. Hueys work, I credit him and the article for providing the groundwork of this project. Materials Primary wood - American black walnut harvested from an old growth tree here in Tallahassee, Fl. Walnut trees are not often found in this area, so when the property owners began to develop the land, I was quick to secure this tree! I had it milled in 2001 and it had been kept stored until I started this project earlier this year. The drawer fronts were cut from 12/4 walnut stock purchased from Peach State Lumber in Kennesaw, GA. Secondary wood - Soft Mable (drawer sides and back) Finish - Precatalyzed tinted lacquer Hardware - Horton Brasses (H-17L 3” Bright Brass with MSF post pulls) and H-17E Bright Brass escutcheons)