Les Thorne’s
‘The Box Chronicles’
A Basic Box
A simple parallel sided box made from cherry with an emphasis on the process including hollowing, lid fitting and finishing using a jam chucking method.
curly top box
One of Les' signature pieces bringing carving, texturing and colouring into the world of box making.
A great project to make as a gift item or to just use the techniques in your own projects
Learn to Turn These Projects
Les Thorne's The Box Chronicles project film has been placed into two online video lessons detailing the techniques required to turn these projects. There is also an accompanying 14 page printable .pdf with the step-by-step instructions available separately.
You Will Need
Aside from your usual kit (including centre finder etc), you will need most of the kit below. Those marked as optional can be substituted for an alternative technique.
Basic Box
4x3x3” wood blank
Suitable chuck with jaws
Spindle Rouging Gouge
1/2” or 3/8” Spindle Gouge
Les Thorne’s Multi Purpose Tool
or Parting Tool1/16” Parting Tool
Abrasives and Finishes
curly top box
The same as the Basic Box, plus:
7x3x3” pale wood blank
Mini angle grinder or rasps
Rotary texturing tool such as a Dremel or the Proxxon used in the video.
Power Drill and Sanding Brush
Wood dyes
Black Satin and Clear Satin lacquers.
Meet Your Tutor
Les Thorne is a world renowned turner and a member of the Register of Professional Turners. In his many years of turning, he has taught and demonstrated around the world and is now based at The Woodturning School in Hampshire, UK.
Take This Lesson
Learn to turn a basic box and curly top box in this online version of Les Thorne's Box Chronicles DVD