This is a Shaker style Lap Desk that I made for my eldest grandson. It has a pencil trough slot at the top (zoom in). 

 

 

The Lid has a brass flap stay on the left and brass hinges.

 

The grain is awesome! Zoom in and look! It has bread board ends.

 

 

.... and hand cut dovetailed corners.

 

 

Thanks for looking!  

Cheers!!

MrRick 

Shaker inspired creations are my favorite. The simplicity of design while maintaining functionality is in harmony with their beliefs 

Thanks lew! I agree. All my furniture is Shaker style inspired This style like you say is characterized by simplicity, clean lines, and functionality.

Key features include honesty in materials (like solid wood), minimal ornamentation, excellent joinery (such as dovetails and mortise-and-tenon), and a "form follows function" design philosophy. This style is known for its enduring craftsmanship and has influenced many design trends today, particularly in kitchen cabinets and chairs. 

The breadboard ends is what caught my eye immediately Rick, looks like you pegged them instead of gluing along the tenon to let the panel expand? 

This is another wonderful piece, and what a gift for the grandson, he'll have that till he is old and then his own kids will have it and then theirs, this is heirloom, beautiful job Rick. Again, I like your style in wood selection, you are not afraid to get wild on the grain, most folks would have chosen a more subdued species like the traditional cherry but you said awe heck no, I'm going wild, and it worked! Thanks for sharing Rick, beautiful piece sir, and those dovetails, flawless from where I stand.

How long did you use dovetails before they started looking this nice?

Thanks John... the breadboard ends are mortised for tabbed tenons with dowels inserted on center to each tenon. The center dowel is anchored in a tight hole on center tenon. The other two tenons holes are actually slots that allow the dowel to come through tight in one direction but allow for wood expansion with the length of the slot. I'm I making sense? If not, I can provide a sketch. 

It didn't take me long to master hand cut dovetails. There are a few details and techniques that you must master and be able to consistently repeat. Recognizing these and repeated practice will get you there. Once you develop a muscle and mind memory then you're on your way. 

Edited November 15, 2025Nov 15 by MrRick

1 hour ago, MrRick said:

If not, I can provide a sketch. 

I know exactly what you are saying, thanks Rick!

Beautiful work man, thanks for sharing!

You are very welcome John!  Cheers!