Internationally renowned woodturner Pat Carroll takes over the Woodsmith Shop to demonstrate how to create a beautifully detailed lidded box on the lathe. This project blends traditional woodturning techniques with a modern twist by adding surface texture using a handheld router. The result is a compact project that delivers big visual impact and valuable turning skills.
This lidded box is an ideal project for turners looking to expand beyond basic forms while still working at a manageable scale. Whether you’re building a keepsake box, jewelry box, or decorative display piece, the techniques shown here will elevate your woodworking.
What truly sets this project apart is the use of a router at the lathe to carve decorative surface details. Pat demonstrates how to safely control the router while the workpiece rotates, creating consistent, eye-catching patterns that would be difficult to achieve by hand alone.
This technique opens up new creative possibilities, allowing you to experiment with texture, rhythm, and depth while maintaining full control of the design.
Once the carving is complete, the box becomes a canvas for finishing techniques. Pat shows how subtle color can be added to highlight the routed details, followed by a protective finish that enhances the wood grain without overpowering the design.
The finishing process ties the entire project together, transforming a simple turned form into a refined, artistic piece.
This routed lidded box is perfect for exploring new techniques without committing to a large build. It’s well suited for maple, cherry, and other fine-grained hardwoods and can be completed on a mini lathe with common tools.
With the step-by-step downloadable plans, you’ll get clear instructions, measured drawings, and guidance for each stage of the process, making it easy to follow along and customize the project to your own style.
Combining classic turning with modern surface decoration, this project is a great way to push your woodworking skills in a creative direction. Whether you’re refining your fundamentals or looking for new ways to add artistic detail to your turning, this lidded box delivers techniques you’ll use again and again.
