Floating Capstone Table of Sapele and Maple
Size: 31” (H) X 16” (D) X 38” (W)
This table is a variation an earlier piece and was something I have wanted to do for quite some time. The primary differences from the earlier design are in how the top is attached; the design of the apron; and the use of contrasting woods. The top is sapele with a single strip of maple down the middle. Some natural checks were left in the top. The apron pieces are dadoed across the back and then glued to "behind the scenes" structural pieces of black walnut which "hides in the shadows". Pinned mortise and tenon joinery is incorporated to attach the apron to the legs. The legs are made with a strip of maple laminated between two pieces of sapele and are tapered on two sides. The taper extends the full length of the legs so that the angle of the apron pieces would follow. The legs have a slight chamfer at the top and bottom.
Photographer: Richard White
Please contact the artist for more information.

Ray Riddell            Coventry, CT, USA

Contact
Email: whitedovewoodworking@gmail.com
Phone (860) 742-0254 (H)
(860) 268-4426 (M)

Address:
117 Eastview Dr.
Coventry, CT 06238

Website: www.whitedovewoodworking.com

Artist Biography

My dream started when I was 9 years old and I decided to enter the Soap Box Derby in my home town. The derby required that the contestants build and race the car themselves. I continued building “things” while taking some formal woodworking classes in high school and college. I learned sound and proven joinery and construction techniques during this time. In 1995, at Penland School of the Crafts, I studied furniture design. At this point, woodworking was still a hobby. In 1996, I moved to Connecticut with my family. I began to explore the rich history of New England fine furniture and skilled craftsmen. In 2002, I finally realized my dream of becoming a full time woodworker.

While I have grown in my skill and craftsmanship, I have also grown in my appreciation for the medium in which I work. Wood is so amazing in its variety, color, infinite grain patterns, smell, feel, etc. I specifically look for pieces with natural but unusual grain patterns; small tight knots; and other imperfections. I want the look of the wood to appear to invite you to touch it.

So much is possible in molding and shaping wood. It can be carved, sawn, routed, turned, chiseled, laminated, bent and so much more. Part of my enjoyment in working with wood is the challenge of building what I have just designed. Finally, if I have done my best, the wood and the project itself will be appreciated from one generation to the next.