Curly Cherry Highboy, Part Two
Making the upper case, drawers and gooseneck molding

Synopsis: In the second of three articles on how to build a curly cherry highboy, Randall O’Donnell focuses on the dovetail joinery in the upper case. He explains how to build the basic box, install runners and rails, and rabbet and mortise the sides and back. A detailed project plan, with inset views, shows how all the pieces fit together. He recommends dry-fitting the case before gluing it. The article includes a scroll-board pattern and information on framing the bonnet. O-Donnell routs and carves the gooseneck molding and explains how to mount and install the hood. Then he tackles the drawers and backboards.
Earlier in my career, I built kitchen cabinets. At that time, dovetailing meant using a jig and router. I dovetailed more than a thousand drawers that way. But when I decided to become a period furnituremaker, I knew those days were over—only hand-cut dovetails would do.…
Start your 14-day FREE trial to continue reading this story.
Plus, access more than 1,900 in-depth articles and more when you become a member.
Start Your Free Trial NowAlready a member? Log In
Log in or become a member to post a comment.
Sign up Log in