Cedar chests, how to make them

This volume brings together everything a beginner or seasoned woodworker needs to design and construct a classic cedar chest. It pairs clear, step‑by‑step instructions with a concise overview of the timber itself, explaining why Southern Juniper—often called red cedar—is the material of choice for lasting furniture.

Readers will learn the wood’s natural resistance to decay, its historic role in early American building, and practical tips for locating suitable lumber. Detailed plans cover simple builds, a variety of decorative designs, finishing techniques, and even the addition of copper hardware, all illustrated with drawings and historic photographs.

Because the author drew on experience as a manual‑training instructor, the guide is written with classroom use in mind, offering educational sidebars that explore the tree’s ecology and cultural heritage. Whether for a school project or a personal workshop, the book equips enthusiasts to create a functional, beautiful chest that will endure for generations.