Toy Chest / Hope Chest
This was originally designed as a toy chest for my grandchildren. It features a live edge spalted maple top with some truly spectacular grain. What was part of a limb now functions as a handle. It was made with variable space dovetails to give it a bit of character. The hinges are similar to what's used on a laptop computer. This makes it safe for children as it will stay open in any position. In this case we chose not to put feet on the piece. The reason being is that by having the carcass sit on the ground, toys and other objects could not get underneath. It also gives the piece a good deal of stability.
The bottom is actually plywood with the understanding that in the case of a toy chest, it's likely to get a fair amount of use and abuse. Note the mitered corners and the attention to detail. This particular case is made out of cherry although another one was produced using walnut.
The exact same design could be used as a hope chest. All that will be necessary is to make it a bit longer. If desired, the interior could be lined with cedar. Incidentally the underside of the top has the same type of grain.