Making a simple, unadorned, valuable keepsake box from FREE pallet wood

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#woodworking

[@beavis1679]

Steve, I love your content, your personality and your perspective on woodworking. I hope the world’s stupid comments haven’t jaded you…yet. I wouldn’t blame you if it has. But, please know, your loyal fans, like myself, are still with you. I started woodworking after watching your videos, and still going strong. Thank you for making woodworking videos. Thank you for your honesty and real world perspective on woodworking. Thank you for being you.

[@rhys5567]

I couldn't agree more about everything said. There are many decent woodworkers. But, a good man. That's undersupplied. Deeply undersupplied.

[@gaylanbishop1641]

I don’t know what stupid comments you’re referring to, but I couldn’t agree more. This guy does EXCELLENT work making these videos both entertaining and informative. Love ‘em.

[@beavis1679]

@@gaylanbishop1641 He talks about these comments (I call them stupid comments!) @ 19:22 in this video.

[@rickfitzpatrick4469]

Ditto

[@Ngry_W]

Agreed, and I also started woodworking because of watching Steve's videos too.

[@toeknee5565]

I love that you went outside, set up the camera facing the garage and then went back inside to the garage to hit the door open for the dramatic entrance. That's a chef's kiss, my friend. A true dedication to the craft.

[@ReverendTed]

You don't think he just left it running all night in preparation for the morning's entrance? ;-p

[@SteveRamsey]

🤣🤣🤣 So true!

[@user001zyx]

ditto -- and a wake-up call for the workshop with sunlight & the smell of coffee

[@negotiableaffections]

Not quite Akira Kurasawa - but close, haha

[@karlhungusjr1]

@@SteveRamsey 😂😂😂

[@reclaimwoodworking7538]

This video brings me such joy. Watching you go through the process of a project like this in long format is something I've definitely been missing. Simple is the best. Ringo was never flashy, but he always held the song together.

[@tracyobrien2816]

yes, and yes he did 😊😊😊😊

[@LevelUpYourFandom]

what an absolute joy of a video this was. it felt like a video essay for the love of pine boxes. i really like this format Steve!

[@SteveRamsey]

Thank you!

[@segamble1679]

Next up...coffins!

[@jscook54]

I have so missed these wonderful build videos from you. You are so terrific and such a great teacher, narrator, videographer, and woodworker. Just The Best.

[@musicbro8225]

Philosopher! :)

[@Metroid-rg9pn]

I watch a lot of woodworking videos, but only yours make me think, "I could actually make that" and motivate me to actually make something.

[@ildefonsogiron4034]

Wow! The process was so involved that I could hardly call it a simple box. A must make project to test one's skills and patience.

[@SteveRamsey]

Remember, simplicity is not defined by the process or tools.

[@johnkeedwell5549]

Great display of skill on a small scale super accurate product. Shows skills on a close up scale.

[@djnorm98]

As a side note, I appreciate the small gesture of leaving the 'changing the bit' and 'changing the zero clearance insert' video in there. Those are exactly the small things that I wonder about the first time I take them on, and seeing that it's really that simple takes away yet another barrier to getting started. Thanks again! Make as many of these style videos as you like. I'll watch!

[@jomichat1975]

That's the Steve Ramsey that I like. Building things in a very relaxing way and describing the build with a no nonsense approach. Thanks Mate.

[@toddshinn4955]

This is, without a doubt, going on my favorite diy video list. Great commentary, warm videography, and useful information. I felt like a neighbor of yours, dropping by to see what you were up to today. Thank you, Sir. I've learned so much from you over the years. I am forever in your debt. You are an inspiration.

[@warrenbutt3746]

Your videos are so relaxing to watch and make everything seem so approachable. I honestly feel like I'm just chilling with some normal guy in his garage while he makes boxes and picture frames with basic tools, zero hype, and no judgement.

[@Jaydcoke]

When we went into lockdown in 2020, a few things kept me sane. One of those was the series of lockdown videos you made, Steve. I looked forward to each one and vicariously enjoyed not just the process, but also that physical connection between a mere mortal and wood. For some time I could not get to my workshop due to lockdown restrictions, but just watching the videos made me feel like I was indeed making things there. Thank you for that and thank you for once again documenting project making. These videos give enormous pleasure to me and doubtless, to so many other people too.

[@flowleopard893]

Thanks for standing up for Pine at the end there. I just milled some boards that came from my grandfather’s home, my dad held onto them they are at least 40 years old. Once done it is some of the most beautiful boards I have ever seen, knots and all.

[@simonmarcoux5879]

the aesthetic of this video feels different in a really positive way! You're voice over is really calm and soothing. I love it!

[@MichaelIreland]

What I've always loved about your videos is your calm, honest demeanor, and how you don't push any narratives about the superiority of some widget or procedure. Just woodworking for human beings. Fist-bump.

[@Coveritifyoucan]

I have been watching your videos for years and you are hands down the best real life garage woodworker I've found. I get so tired of watching garage woodworking videos where the tools used to make the project cost more than the cost of the garage. I thoroughly enjoy your real life approach to projects and you have taught me much over the years while providing hours of entertainment. Keep up the good work

[@tomlilly]

I have watched and been inspired/learned from you over the years. There is a life's little instruction that plays on repeat in my head. "Before learning the tricks of the trade, learn the trade." You, my friend, teach the trade. Thank you.

[@soupysoup931]

24:38 looks awesome and mindblowing. looks like a work of art done by a true professional

[@halbertwalston]

Great commentary on both the process and the material selection. And, as ever - it's great to learn yet more new (to me) techniques. Thanks for so many years of helping me learn.

[@SteveRamsey]

Thank you!

[@ronnyrice697]

Steve your attitude is what I like about you and I really appreciate your honesty.

[@BrendenVee]

This is the simple, humble, pine box, as this is the simple, humble, project video. A master craftsman.

[@chriswindberg5010]

You were literally the first youtube woodworker that I found and got "the spark" started for me loving this hobby. I've lost track of how many years, and videos, that was ago but I still love watching your content. Thank you for doing everything you do, and providing inspiration to so many people. Looking forward to the next video!

[@loucinci3922]

Well done. Working on basics is a must. Keep sharp. Thanks for sharing

[@MikeD87916]

Thank you Steve. I've missed your project videos. I truly appreciate your work.

[@WGMedia]

I have been watching for years and have never commented before. I find your most recent content such as this to be quite pleasing.

[@rogerfeenstra9496]

Along with the craftsmanship, I enjoyed the philosophical nuggets along the way. Thank you.

[@DoingItCheap]

Thank you SO much for this video. I am in the planning stages of a nice box for a bottle of perfume I bought for my daughter for a Christmas present.

[@jenspetterabrahamsen9333]

What a nice and relaxing video. I’ve seen this box once or twice before, but this time it was shot in real time, no 2x.

[@elisabethreeves1786]

Thank you for the sermon about simplicity at the end 💚

[@dgoins6]

Hi Steve! Your video on building boxes was inspirational to me. Now whenever a friend who is new to woodworking asks where to start, I tell them build boxes and share your video. Now I have a new video to share with them. Thanks!

[@segamble1679]

Know what I just realized what I love about your videos, Steve? That you're working out of your garage. I subconsciously feel more confident in trying your projects because your shop looks like mine -if he can do it, so can I. Thanks for staying humble.

[@theskyehiker]

👍for pine. I love the grain and it does indeed age beautifully. Nice to see a project video from you. 👏

[@The_man_himself_67]

I've been spending a lot of time on garden projects: a shed, an Arbor, a greenhouse, endless planters. I needed to get back to a simple shop project, and this is the one. Great video. Thanks Steve.

[@craigs7473]

Nice video, thanks. A perfect video to pour a cup or two, sit back and enjoy (which I just did) I don't consider myself a wood worker but more of a guy who likes to work with wood every so often, a mere mortal as you so aptly put it. As for as working with pine, the vast majority of wood workers and people who just enjoy working with wood are doing it in a very large box made with pine. At least my house and garage were made by building a pine skeleton of 2x's or maybe fir. A lot people cherish that old tool tote or shoe shine box made by an ancestor or they themselves made in shop class out of pine. Really enjoy your channel. I've been watching for about 3 years.

[@ltrtiger]

Really glad to see you back in your shop making things. Enjoy your interviews and shorts, but really like to see you create. Welcome back old friend!

[@jeffflaxman1932]

Your project videos are so refreshing. I'm glad you were able to find the drive to make another one.

[@SpideyScott72]

Holy half-hour, Batman! Great video, huge fan of the project videos, no matter the project. Thanks Steve

[@tesuji2000]

what a great video --- shows what can be done using ordinary wood and --- time tested fundamental methods.

[@jgbcodemonkey]

I've followed you for years now, and I love the change in direction of your video style. This is one of your best yet. Keep up the good work!

[@ajsiemers]

I love to watch woodworking video's, it reminds me of watching my dad, a carpenter/furniture-maker in his attic when I was a kid. And i find myself coming back to your video's because of the "it's what I got" "I can make it work" and "it might look silly but it is what it is" style.

[@christiantroy3034]

I have all those tools and many more, i was watching and seeing the mastery, nice job. Haters are going to hate. I do like your Router

[@rayscrafield2106]

Very well done. Now, I have something more on my bucket list. Thanks.

[@TeddyR_Official]

Yay, another project video for mere mortals! Thank you. 😉

[@fatmanwookie5180]

Steve I've been watching your channel for years and enjoyed it as well you show the basics with out buying expensive tools wich when my grandfather was alive he built our house and furniture as well i was 5 when i used to go into the shed with him and help him glue n nail boards an now im 57 ive built alot over the years to so keep up the good work if you have criticism from other people there just jealous off how well your doing and the freinds you have in the community

[@orange-micro-fiber9740]

Enjoying the casual feel with the coffee mug. Makes the video feel like something I would do.

[@charaseac]

Steve, Thank you for this video. I started woodworking a couple of years ago from your weekend woodworker course. Thank you for reminding us about simplicity and experience. One more thing that I'd like to call out for other viewers: not many KZbin woodworkers out there have close-up shots of their project, let alone something as small as a keepsake box. The fact that Steve is confident enough to have these close-up shots with the clean mitre and finishes says a lot about his skills and craftsmanship. Thank you again for this, Steve.

[@annaredd2422]

Hi Steve, I just want to say you were one of my first woodworking teachers. I have always enjoyed your videos and the way you keep it simple. I even purchased your first class series. Thanks for not shifting into a camera and music background. I came to learn not just watch a saw cutting and music background. As long as you are making videos I will be here to watch.

[@jimcardinali1555]

You always not only showed the steps that go into making a simple box, but also,the mistakes that occur along the way. I never thought that happened to anyone except me. Thank you for doing what you do.

[@blaugrana-jw3dd]

Love these videos, they kinda remind me of the lockdown period (the good side of it). You made a similar box during that time. Loved that video too.

[@justatravellerhere]

Love the way you put it... humbe box project is fundamental to a wood worker as cooking an omlette to a chef.

[@elchimpo9590]

Steve, thank you !! One of the best videos I’ve seen about a simple pine box. You’ve captured the true purpose, meaning, process and therapeutic nature of woodworking in this video

[@SteveRamsey]

Thanks! I really appreciate that. 👍

[@williambolio7723]

Totally agree with you. Simple can be elegant and not necessarily easy.

[@Toyotajunkie]

Yet another great video and project! 100% agree with the "simplistic" misunderstanding you talked about.

[@johndaniels9957]

Thank you for making this video. It is a not-so-subtle reminder that no one is ever too skilled as to not benefit from practicing the basics. It also encourages beginners to know that one does not need to spend a fortune on materials to learn woodworking. I could go on, but my main point is that you shared a wealth of information in this short video and ended up with a beautiful keepsake box in the process.

[@brettfankhauser7923]

After hearing what people say about your simple box video, I have to tell you, I make 200+ of rhsoe boxes each year with my high school woodshop students. I use it as the perfect intro to how to use a table saw and the basics of building a box. We watch your 7 things to know about the table saw video and I always remind them that most woodworking projects are usually some sort of a box anyways, as you say. So, thank you for that simple box project build, this simple box here which we will be trying, and for all of your videos, because your the most watched woodworker in our classrooms and I thank you for it.

[@andrebourque2165]

Absolutely love your commentary. I felt like I just went to church!

[@rizzorizzo2311]

I’m a relatively new woodworker and I’ve got a table saw, and a miter saw, and a couple skill saws and electric drill/driver and a jigsaw. I have a pneumatic fastener set. I’ve asked the wife for a plunging router for Valentine’s Day and will likely start saving up for a basic electric planer, will likely try to get a used one on Craigslist. I’ve done a lot of home improvement style work on our house like rebuilt the deck and rebuilt the front stairs. I don’t consider that type of work woodworking so much as Home improvement. I just found your Chanel and love it. You make woodworking seem way less intimidating and make the bar for entry seem a lot lower. Keep up the good work! I now would like to get into proper woodworking so i can make stuff like this for my wife.

[@BillWanamaker]

I've absolutely loved watching your videos over the past few years. I love how you've experimented with so many different things and are not afraid to try out new techniques or strategies to keep your audience engaged and spread your content. I also love that you've never been afraid to speak your mind about some of the more controversial topics in woodworking. This video feels like such a culmination of the past few years and it was incredibly enjoyable. Thank you for making it.

[@darodes]

Steve, I consider myself a regular viewer and would like to personally request more projects like this! Keep it up pal!

[@pedroiiiflores3032]

Nice. So simple yet complicated. Approved!

[@quentinlynch]

The project is cool. I liked the different camera positions a lot.

[@SteveRamsey]

Thanks!

[@xIvanhoex]

I rarely comment, but I wanted to say: Thank you! I'm not a big fan of the recent trend to pushing out shorts, so I really liked that you made this "traditional" video. Very calm and relaxing, nice to listen to.

[@jerther_]

The two last videos have a kind of National Geographics feeling to them, with Steve commenting. "Here you can see the Mere Mortal in its natural habitat." :) Thank you Steve, I learn so much from your videos. You should see all the stuff I made in the last 6 months from your plans and ideas. Keep on making them!

[@wolfman75]

Very Nice!!!! Simple into Beauty!!! Well Done Steve!!!! Thank You!!!!😀💯👍😎😁🤘

[@hugomundo4826]

Nice box, and chat. Cheers from Brazil

[@Ensiferum888]

Man I love your videos, you speak very well and have a great voice. To me you are the Bob Ross of woodworking! I started on September 8th after seeing your end grain cutting board video. Since then I made the mobile workbench, 3 cutting boards, 8 coasters, and an outdoor cat shelter (still need to install shingles) and I love it! First two boards were coated with mineral oil tomorrow I'm trying pure tung oil!

[@bobjones8864]

Steve, your advice and instructions are clear and useful regardless of how long your viewers have been working with wood. Thanks.

[@robertgray703]

Some people see simple and easy as cheap, but forget that good workmanship and attention to detail is where the worth actually is

[@marvinostman522]

I have been trying to find a video showing how to make that double groove process to make the cover and body recess. I saw it years ago on Woodsmith Shop but couldn’t find the episode. Very happy to find that.

[@rickdoby7361]

Thank you for this video and your blessing on pine. I live in the southeast US and pine is a traditional wood for everything here. I like to use southern yellow pine construction lumber. Buy 2x8 or 2x10 lumber and resaw them. 2x8's or wider have to come from larger trees so you get straighter grain and fewer knots.

[@timontran4728]

I have watched your channel for a while and appreciate your teaching. I made my first box today as a drawer for my moving cabinet; it is for the table saw, inspired by one of your videos. But, oh boy, it was so difficult to get it done right. I still have a lot to practice. As I watched this video, I remembered a video you taught about making a box is fundamental to working on many projects; now I understand what you mean by making my first box.

[@Bluuuz]

A brilliant box. As a really poor (but aspiring) woodworker, your patient approach and attention to detail have have helped me try and improve immeasurably. Simplicity is a fine art! You’ve mastered it.

[@pnerim]

this is the example of why you are for the last decade, my very favorite woodworker of all time

[@guyfrench658]

Thanks, Steve! This is probably my favorite of your box-making videos. The pace is good and the explanations are thorough at each step.

[@szczepan2124]

This is brilliant! You are basically Frank Howarth in this video. It makes me smile all the time while watching.

[@MichaelCarroll]

Professional, elegant, perfect! And so is the box.

[@RenotSemaj]

Steve you've done it again. Your videos are always enjoyable. I think your wisdom is growing with your age. As I age I find more enjoyment in using hand tools when I can. I wholeheartedly agree with your comments about Pine it is a great wood. I'm sure that a lot of people use hardwoods because in fact they are easier to work with. For example, it's much easier to chisel out, a hand cut, dovetail in hardwood than in a soft one like Pine. Your lovely little box is a great example of how Pine can look. My grandson is coming over in the morning I think I will start to make one with him. You've given me inspiration. Thank you.

[@Brad_R_LiveFit]

Every time my notification goes off letting me know that you've put out another video, I get a child-like excitement over what creation and/or informative video you've created. I enjoyed the video and the explanations for what and why you took the steps you did. Beyond that, I enjoyed your reminder to practice the fundamentals with "simpler" projects because those fundamental skills have the knack for turning up in even the most "unrelated" projects. And when those situations arise, I am always thankful I took the time to practice and learn those skills. Keep putting out the quality content you are known for, because it helps and influences all of us, your subscribers, regardless of our knowledge or skill level. Thank you! 😁

[@schawn-paulrotella5709]

Steve, I wanted to thank you for this excellent instructional video. I had some off cuts from 2x4s from a bed I was making. I used the $99 band saw from harbor freight with a clamped and straight 2x4 as a "fence" to keep the board straight through the cut and made 1/4" boards. A quick planning and they were straight and true. I've made 6 of these boxes so far and they are turning out great despite my lack of experience! It's hard to believe this beautiful box was hiding in "scrap" wood. Thanks again!

[@VaracolacidVesci]

I have been around a while and it shows how mature your woodworking and desing has gotten.

[@seregruin]

Love this video style with all the background noise and deep voiced voice-over. Feels like woodworking ASMR! Very authentic

[@Gaborkik]

Love the new, narrated type video style!

[@ericmyers8882]

You made a comment about simplicity of project vs. the tools you have at your disposal. I feel as thou the tools you currently have in your shop are readily available to most. It was interesting seeing you from having a fully equipped shop, to a minimalist shop setup. showing that you can produce solid projects with a minimal setup. As far as the old debate between hand tools and power tools, they both have their place in modern woodworking. It depends on availability, skill and what you are comfortable with. Keep up the good work and your loyal viewers will keep watching.

[@chrishad95]

Every so often, I come back and watch this one. I agree 100% that simplicity is a form of beauty. Thanks for this.

[@theredtruckwoodshop2722]

I agree with you that simple can be beautiful. I’ve built stuff with power tools for a long time & in the last couple years, I’m learning that power tools are good but not for everything. The use of the exact knife is a good example. And as you said PATIENCE is key.

[@thorny3218]

I love planing and carving by hand. If it’s a small project I sand by hand too. It’s therapeutic for sure.

[@tiachijordan9998]

I just love this video. The simple narration and no intro works for me. I miss the keep it simple project videos.

[@glg3945]

Lovely 😍 👌 👍 🥰 Peace and good fortune and good health to you and your family. 😃

[@rpm773]

Hey Steve, I really like the change in presentation style of this video.

[@frankagee3157]

This video is one of your best. I love the comments about simplicity and the humble pine wood. Great stuff, keep it up. Thanks.

[@SuperCruelworld]

I can get behind your pine box, as one of my favorite woods is douglas fir. I fell in love with it back in high school and have never lost my passion for the beauty and remarkable possibilities of simple woods and clean projects. This doesn’t mean I don’t make hardwood projects. I love those also. Last Christmas I made a vermilion box to hold a hand made vermillion marking gauge and knife. Domed top, mitered sides with white oak splines. It was a pleasure to make something with someone in mind who I thought would appreciate the effort. The look on his face was what made it all worth doing. I used to watch KZbin for inspiration. I guess I still do (not so much). But I am dumbfounded by the effort to compete. Presenting project after project as if it were a new idea. Where did the joy go from just doing it no matter how unimportant it might be?

[@reyrainer6332]

What a beautiful, simple project. And I completely agree on the prejudice to pine. I really like the texture and versatility that pine offers. Ok, it's inexpensive, but there's a lot more to it than meets the eye.

[@thomasajita]

hi Steve...i have been your fan for several years now. infact you have been one of the great KZbin influencers for me when i started woodworking. I have been woodworking now for almost 10+years... and i still look forward to your videos. they contain that simplicity and minute details which an average wood worker encounters almost everyday... but most youtubers never discuss it. Really appreciate your patience and dedication. Also love your humility. God bless you. keep up the good work. you are an inspiration to many like me 😊

[@slowburnwoodworks7626]

Great video as always ❤ I've only been in the practice of woodworking for about 6 months. Your channel was the second one I started watching, but quickly became my favorite because of your approach, sense of humor, and all around style of "teaching". Thank you for sticking with this for so long, and giving newbies like me a place where we can be inspired and informed without feeling intimidated by our own lack of experience or equipment. 🙏 We love you, Mr. Ramsey, and thank you again! Also, damn fine box, my man👌

[@jackthomas2051]

Making simple projects like these boxes are an excellent, and relatively cheap, way to develop and improve skills needed for more complicated projects. Excellent video.

[@galhillel100]

Thank you for reminding me what woodworking I all about

[@Phyoomz]

Came for the box tutorial, stayed for the philosophical outlooks. Thank you Steve.

[@andrewwatkinson1548]

Loved it mate. Glad to see you making good old fashioned projects again. I thought I’d invented the finishing with brown paper idea. I find if you rub hard enough it heats up the finish and almost bakes it silky smooth. Keep on keeping on my friend, you’ve got many, many avid viewers out there to entertain and educate.

[@Scott2148]

A lovely build and a refreshing considered reflection. Thank you Steve for your years of dedicated service to the art.

[@louisscott3874]

I`ve found all your advice really hits home sometimes trying for elegance is a waste, simple works