West Branch Senior creates hand-crafted tool chest

Susan Hulton

West Branch High School senior Susan Hulton has completed a woodworking project after months of work: a handcrafted tool chest.

The chest, built with hand tools, includes hand-cut dovetail joinery. Hulton designed the chest after those built at the North Bennet Street School in Boston.

Hulton undertook the project because she wanted a place to store her woodworking tools and to challenge her skills. The chest is constructed from solid cherry and other hardwoods.

Susan's interest in this project was sparked when she realized she wanted to continue her woodworking in the future and needed a place to store her tools.

The project required precision and patience, particularly when crafting the dovetails that secure the chest's solid cherry and hardwood panels.

The North Bennet Street School trains students for careers in traditional trades that use hand skills. The school's mission includes preserving craft traditions and promoting craftsmanship.