1. Bevels are cut into the "fingers" of the prepared wood strips, as part of the Shaker design.

2. Strips of wood are soaked in hot water until they are pliable.

3. The strips are bent around wooden forms, which give the box its shape.

4. Small copper tacks are driven into the "fingers" to fasten the band together.

5. For the box lid, a narrow band is soaked, bent and fitted to each box.

6. Box bands, their shape held by wooden molds, are left to dry completely overnight.

7. Top and bottom pieces are drawn and cut individually to fit each box.

8. Small wooden pegs fasten the top and bottom pieces to each box; here, drill holes for the pegs are marked.

9. Next, the boxes are sanded lightly, then a coat of tung oil finish is hand-rubbed into the wood. A coat of wax and a light buffing completes each box.