my apple tart box

[martzy]

I made this apple tart box following Carole's instructions from her new book. It was a lot of fun and very easy to do. The directions were clear and easy to follow. I thought it would be a neat project to do since I've never done anything like it before. Glueing on the apple slices was a bit problematic until I got into a grove and then they moved right along.

One thing I will probably do differently next time would be attaching the bottom to the compartment piece and then cut the outside edge. This would make for a whole lot less sanding. It would also make the wood thicker to cut which could be a disadvantage but I think it will be okay with some packing tape to prevent burning, a nice sharp new blade, and a little patience.

Someone I talked to suggested an extra cut on the apple slices to make it look like you have cut out the core of the apple. She said it might make the slices look more realistic. The plan called for aspen, which I didn't have. I used maple instead because it was the whitest wood I had. I left some slight burn marks on the wood. I left some of them on there to make it look more like the apples had been baked.

Overall, it was a lot of fun. I think I'll move on to some bows and boxes next then maybe some cupcakes.

Thanks for looking.

[PatteM]

Oh, that is really cute -- and you did a great cutting job! You're right about the burn marks making the apples look real, too. Regarding glueing the bottom on - I have the same indecision of whether to cut then glue, or glue then cut, just because of the added thickness. I think the best advice is -- patience! Which I'm still learning.

[wood-n-things]

Nicely done. I agree that the semicircle for the core may add some realism. You may try it on a scrap piece. Looks great this way as well.

[DWSudekum]

Nicely done Keith. Might want to add a seed or two to some of the slices but over all it looks great. Thanks for sharing it with us.


DW

[handibunny]

Nice job, Keith. Glad you're having fun with the book. I'm looking forward to seeing your bow boxes and cupcakes when you get around to them.

No reason why you couldn't cut out the base along with the sides, providing you are comfortable cutting thick cherry. Keep in mind that when you cut at an angle, the wood is actually thicker than its measurement, so you'd be cutting wood over 1" thick. If you check the Linzer tart box instructions, you'll find that approach offered as an alternative if you're using a less demanding wood, like mahogany.

And if you want to "core" your apple slices, a small spindle or drum should be easier than cutting. There are a lot of shaping and coloring possibilities, so have fun being creative. Think of my instructions as just the starting point, and take it from there.

[Bill Wilson]

Good job Keith! I've been wanting to make that project, ever since it was featured in a recent edition of SSW&C. I just haven't gotten around to it yet. Yours turned out very nice. What finish did you use?

[martzy]

I used a spray lacquer for the finish. I used a FD #7 UR for the blade. It cut like a dream so I think I'll try cutting the bottom and base together. If it doesn't work, then maybe I'll upgrade to a 9 when I reorder down the road. I'd do just about anything to reduce the amount of sanding!

[oily]

They look fantastic!!!
Guys we need a whole assortment of pies and goodies.
Great way to fill little open spots on sales tables.
I look forward to the list getting short enough to make some of those.
I'm thinking a little dremel work, real seeds and I love the cinnamon stick slices for looks and aroma idea.

[handibunny]

Maybe little seeds cut from thin walnut?

[martzy]

My kids eat apples like crazy. I should try to save some of the seeds. My mother-in-law offered to paint some on. I told her I'd give her a few slices to practice on. I did buy some of the cinnamon sticks but didn't slice them and glue them on yet. Placing those apple slices was my biggest challenge. It took a while to get them the way I wanted them and even then I wasn't super satisfied. I guess it comes in practice. I had a blast making it and can't say enough about how easy Carole made it with her directions.

[AirNationalGuardMom]

Great job Keith.
Linda

[Hawaiilad]

That came out very nice Keith. Carole always makes it look easy doesn't she,,,LOL

[SawTooth]

I've said it before and I don't mind saying it again: IMHO, Carole's bowl/vase book set a record for its high level of quality for books that teach how to do a new kind of project... and her boxes book matched it. (I also consider Gary MacKay's book on boxes to be right up there, too. It hasn't escaped me that the main thing Gary and Carole have in common (besides love of new project concepts in scroll sawing) are the folks at Fox Chapel... so kudos to y'all.
And Keith: you did a great job on that.

[wilkie]

Nice Work!

[Haggard3230]

Very nice work Keith.