Project 1: Base Box

Project Description

For this project you will be designing and constructing a box for an object you already own. The goal of this project is the consider the relationship between object and container and how proximity can direct meaning. 

In addition, you will learn some basic skills in design (planning and drafting), wood joinry and measuring. Your box must creatively function as both a container and a pedestal for the object you choose. 

Next Class. Due Jan. 16th. 

1. Choose a found object to make a wooden box/pedestal for. The object should fit in your hand, and not be too difficult to transport. Pick an interesting object and think about how the box/pedestal can affect the meaning of the object. When closed, the box you design has to completely conceal your object and hold it in securely in place. As a pedestal, it must creatively present your object to the viewer. 

Bring your object to class along with a detailed technical drawing of your box/pedestal including all of its measurements in each dimension (length, width, height). The required reading will cover the drafting process (how to make a technical drawing). Your drawing will need to show details of how your Base Box will be constructed. It will show the types of joinery, measurements, etc. Below is a list of other materials you will need to bring to class on Tue:

• Wood - minimum ½" thick. This can be plywood or dimensional lumber. You will want to estimate how much wood you need so you have enough to make a box that fully encloses your found object. 
• Saftey Goggles- I have these for you to borrow, but recommend getting your own. 
• Studio shoes- no flip flops, sandles, heels, or flats. 
• Sharp pencil for layout. 
• Stainless Steel Ruler.
• Your Object.
• Technical Drawing including the following views: Front, Top, Left Side and Section. 

Required Research. Due Jan 16th. 

I will email a pdf that covers some basics with shop safety, drafting and joinery. You will need to read pages 1 - 47 before class on Tue. 

In-Class we will continue to do demonstrations on joinery using the following tools. Each of you will run a few operations through each tool. You will need to be comfortable with these to complete this project:

• Miter Saw/Chop Saw
• Band Saw
• Disc Sander
• Drill Press

Use the internet to research wood joinry techniques before coming to class. Be sure to cover the following joints: rabbet, dado, dovetail, box joint, miter, lap, butt. Some good resources are wood magazine, woodcraft, popular woodworking, fine woodworking, etc. I'm including a slideshow here. 

Rubric
You will be evaluated on the quality and completion of the following:
40% Technical drawings
40% Craftsmanship/Construction
20% Creativity/Concept


Jan. 23rd- Workday with individual attention. 

Due. Jan. 30th. 

Finished Box/Pedestal ready for critique.