Cherry Writing Desk

I've wanted my own writing desk for quite some time but kept putting it off because, well, I wanted it to be really special and I couldn't quite land on what I wanted to do.  I was originally thinking something in the Shaker style out of Walnut but, alas, I was thoroughly inspired to move in a different direction after watching this series of videos from "Guy's Woodshop". 

The techniques I used are mostly the same as Guy illustrates in his videos if you want to get an idea of how it was made.  I've included some images of the desk at earlier stages of the build, prior to the "aging" process which, notably, makes use of potassium dichromate to speed up time by bringing out the Cherry's own natural beauty—a method I far prefer over a topical stain which I believe interferes too much with the grain.  I parted ways with Guy on the finish and went with a three-stage process of Walnut oil, Shellac, and paste wax.  There is also a single bowtie on lower right side of the table top to replace a knot.

As I type this post, I'm happy to say it's on the new writing desk which I'm thrilled with.  The desk should last for an eon.  Hopefully it'll be cherished for as long too!

Finally, my "helper" applying some finish to the top :)