Dovetail Box
£240.00
Inspired by the candle boxes made by the Shaker communities of 19th-century America, this dovetail box is a study in simplicity, honesty, and craft. Each one is made entirely by hand in my York workshop using traditional joinery and carefully selected Scandinavian Pine.
No jigs, and no shortcuts. Every dovetail is cut and fit by hand, creating a joint that is both strong and beautiful in its precision. The result is a versatile box that reflects the Shaker belief that beauty rests on utility.
Perfect for storing candles, keepsakes, stationery, or treasured small items, it’s a practical piece that carries the quiet warmth of genuine craftsmanship. The tactile finish and crisp joinery details make it as satisfying to hold as it is to use.
Quality takes time. Every piece is made to order with a lead time of 4 – 6 weeks.
Dimensions
Length: 30 cm
Width: 14.5 cm
Height: 11.5 cm
Materials
Scandinavian Pine & Wood Glue
Design
The design of this dovetail box takes inspiration from the simple, purposeful forms made by the Shaker communities of 19th-century America. Their furniture was never about ornament or excess, but integrity, proportion, and the quiet beauty that comes from usefulness.
That same spirit guides how I work today. Each joint is cut by hand, each surface planed smooth with care, using only traditional tools and methods. Like the Shaker originals, this piece isn’t designed to follow trends, it’s built to serve, to last, and to remind us of the value of things made with patience and purpose.
Finish & Feel
Each dovetail box is finished by hand with shellac and a hard wax polish – traditional finishes chosen for their warmth, depth, and feel. I use a super blonde shellac to bring out the natural colour of the wood with minimal darkening, creating a soft glow that changes beautifully with the light.
Once the shellac has cured, I apply a hard wax polish by hand and buff it to a gentle sheen. The result isn’t glossy or artificial, just a smooth, tactile surface that almost feels soft to the touch. It invites use and grows richer with handling and time.
I chose these finishes because they honour the timber rather than consealing it or trying to make it something that it’s not. Like the Shaker designs that inspired this piece, the finish is simple, honest, repairable, and made to last.
Delivery
Smaller items that can be securely packaged and safely shipped will usually be sent by a specialist courier.
Larger pieces will be delivered myself.
Make it your own
Each piece is made to order so if you’d like something slightly different, we can make it yours.
