Thanks Ken, I got engrosed in this one. Once I got started carving the other day, I did not stop till 2:30 in the morning.

Thanks guys, I appreciate all the comments.

I have been playing around and practicing with carving for several months, but this was my first complete carving project. I was pleased with the way it turned out. The Padauk was a bit of a challenge, not that it was difficult to work with, but that it is not in the least bit forgiving. It was a valuable lesson in preparation. Watch Paul’s videos, pay attention to what he says and does, have everything prepared ahead of time, and it is a joy to work with. If your tools aren’t sharp, you are going to be disappointed and frustrated. The Padauk is a beautiful red inside, and begins to turn dark once exposed to air and eventually will turn almost black. Take your time and work it, the wood reveals itself in a very pleasing manner. I found myself lost in it for hours at a time. This wood doesn’t like to be pushed, and from what I expreienced, it doesn’t respond well to power tools either.

Thanks Jason

Yes, I ploughed a groove and suspended a 1/4″ panel beveled slightly to create a snug fit and still a bit of breathing room. This left visible holes in the corners of the box, so I filled them like Paul shows in the video series. End result was the patches were almost invisible.