Updated Ribbons and Bows Box

In 2007, I entered a box with a bow on it in Scroll Saw Woodworking & Crafts' design contest. I decided to update the box using the stacked ring approach. Instead of adding a ribbon on top of the box, I glued in a laminated strip of purpleheart. The loopy bow and tails were adapted from the bow pattern from the earlier project, using 8 loops to compensate for the narrower size. I'm really pleased with the results, and intend to try out other "bowl boxes".

Old patterns, new bowls

Using only the patterns from my book, varied slightly or combined, I've come up with some interesting combinations. Since thin wood is expensive (re-sawing is not an option) I'm experimenting with using veneers for added interest. I bought a big box of assorted veneers relatively inexpensively, which should last a long time. I'm trying to create vessels that would be difficult to do on the lathe--another victory for the humble scroll saw!

Bowls that fly

Just a cautionary note. Yesterday, as I was sanding a new project at the drill press, an edge of the bowl caught on a light that's attached to the press and went flying. Fortunately, the edges were still thick enough not to be damaged, and I was not hit by the flying object, but it was a reminder that even relatively safe tools like the drill press can turn lethal. So, hold on tightly to your project, pay attention at all times, and use protective eyewear.