Challenge: Create a process that would enhance extraordinary cabinetry.
The client had assembled a team of highly qualified and artistic people from different disciplines to create an extraordinary residence.
The cabinetry was created by a truly gifted cabinetmaker Jon Frost at Frost Cabinetry. He designed and created a project that used unusual woods to create an exquisite example of fine furniture. Through our relationship with Jon Frost, we were given the challenge to enhance the work, not just finish it. The designer and the client had great faith in him and ultimately in his decision to bring our skills to the project.
The cabinet was created using book match Crotch Mahogany, Honduras Mahogany, and Pommelle Saepele. The designer’s first choice was to use a clear lacquer.
When we became involved he gave us three directives; one, enhance the crotch mahogany as well as possible; two, color the box work (Honduras Mahogany) to match the center of the crotch; three, bring depth to the interior (Pommelle Saepele).
We started with the Crotch Mahogany. Our process was relatively simple but time consuming. We chose to use shellac to color, create depth, and enhance our final finish.
We used a process that consisted of six layers of hand rubbed shellac, one layer of dark paste wood filler, and one final layer of shellac with a UV inhibitor additive, followed by one coat of wax. The box work consisted of a similar multi-layer process which enhanced the wood and created extraordinary depth. Finally the interior was given a six layer hand rubbed finish. When the interior lights were turned on, the wood grain just danced.
The completed project was an example of the magic that can happen when highly creative and artistic people are given the opportunity to combine talents in the creation of fine casework.
