Lane chests are generally made from various types of wood, including walnut, mahogany, oak, birch, and pine. The specific type of wood used will vary based on the style of chest and the particular model.
In some cases, the wood may be different across different parts of the chest – the top, drawers, sides, and feet – with a different type of wood used for each. In addition, the wood may go through a staining or dying process, depending on the style, to give it a particular finish.
What kind of wood is used in a cedar chest?
A cedar chest is typically made of either true cedar, or a wood resembling cedar such as aromatic red cedar or cypress. True cedar is a softwood that is lightweight and fragrant, with a warm reddish-brown color and a straight grain.
Aromatic red cedar, often called eastern red cedar, is a type of juniper wood with a distinctive red hue, known for its pleasant aroma and resistance to insects and decay. Cypress woods such as southern yellow pine, spruce pine, white pine, and longleaf pine are also often used to make a cedar chest.
These varieties of cypress have straight graining and a rich, dark color that is often considered a suitable substitute for true cedar.
How do you make a wooden hope chest?
Making a wooden hope chest is a great way to spruce up a room, or add a special touch to a gift. Here are the steps to follow to make your own hope chest:
1. Gather the materials. You will need wood for the chest, hinges for the lid, and a lock or latch for the lid. Be sure to measure accurately and purchase enough wood for the entire project.
2. Cut the wood into the desired shape. If you don’t have the skills to create the patterns and cuts by hand, use a router or jigsaw with a guide.
3. Construct the box. Glue and nail the pieces together to form the basic box shape. You will want an extra piece for the bottom of the chest.
4. Attach the hinges and lid. Using the same technique used to construct the box, glue and nail the hinges to the lid and the box.
5. Seal and finish. Sand the wood to remove any irregularities. If desired, stain or paint the wood, then seal with a sealant to protect it from the elements.
6. Add the lock or latch. This is done after the chest is sealed and the outside painted. Mount the lock in the right position, and don’t forget to check that it’s secure!
7. Add a liner. Using fabric or a soft material, create a liner for your box to cushion items stored inside and give it a beautiful, finished look.
Now you have a beautiful, hand-crafted wooden hope chest that is sure to bring joy for many years to come!
What is the difference between hope chest and cedar chest?
The main difference between a hope chest and a cedar chest is the design and purpose. A hope chest is a classic storage trunk traditionally used to store items such as linens, quilts, and other sentimental keepsakes.
They are usually crafted from wood and feature intricate, ornamental designs. A cedar chest, on the other hand, is built from a specific type of wood known for its fragrant aroma, its natural insect-repelling properties, and its unique strength.
Cedar chests are used mainly for clothing storage and can be enhanced with locks and/or safety hinges, making them snug and secure.
How much is a solid cedar chest worth?
The value of a solid cedar chest can vary greatly, depending on its size, condition, age, and the type of wood used. Salvaged, vintage cedar chests made of solid wood may cost several hundred dollars, while smaller, newer pieces could be worth far less.
Antique cedar chests may be even more valuable, depending on their quality and features. It is important to inspect the chest closely for craftsmanship, hardware, and wear, as these details can impact its value.
Additionally, the originality of a cedar chest also helps determine its worth. For instance, ones that are handcrafted or made from an older type of cedar can often sell for higher price tags. Ultimately, a solid cedar chest is worth what someone is willing to pay for it.
Are cedar chests worth anything?
Cedar chests are a beautiful vintage piece of furniture and can be worth a considerable amount, depending on the age and condition. They are particularly valuable when they are in their original condition and have not been refinished or restored in any way.
Antique cedar chests from the early 1900s are among the most valuable, as they typically feature intricate carvings, unique details and handsome finishes. In general, cedar chests from the late 19th century or earlier tend to be the most sought after and valuable.
Depending on the age and condition, cedar chests can sell for anywhere between $150 to several hundred or several thousand dollars. It is important to remember that the value of a cedar chest can also be determined by its size and composition, such as whether it is made of wood or cedar.
If you are interested in learning more about the value of a cedar chest, it is best to consult with an appraiser or knowledgeable dealer for a more accurate assessment.
Is cedar wood a hardwood or softwood?
Cedar wood is a softwood. The term “softwood” refers to wood derived from a conifer tree, such as cedar. Softwoods generally have the characteristics of being light in weight, easy to work with, versatile, and used in a wide range of applications.
Softwoods are typically used in construction applications such as frames, trusses, and joists, and in furniture, cabinetry, and other decorative applications. Cedar wood has a delightful aroma and is resistant to decay, making it a popular choice for outdoor applications such as fence posts and siding.
Cedar is also commonly used for lining closets and drawers, and has been used for making boats, baskets, folk instruments, and more.
How can you tell how old a cedar chest is?
To tell how old a cedar chest is, look for several pieces of evidence. Examine the type of wood used, the joinery, and the hardware. If the chest is made of solid cedar, the joinery is hand-cut, and the hardware is iron or brass, it is likely a chest made in the early 1800s.
Look for any labels or stamps that could help date the piece, such as a manufacturer’s stamp, a date, or a patent mark. In addition, research the cedar chest’s dimensions and design to learn when pieces of similar age were produced.
You can also take your chest to a professional appraiser or antique expert who has experience dating cedar chests. They may be able to examine the chest in person and provide additional clues to its age based on their experience.
In the end, a combination of objective and subjective evaluation methods can help you determine the age of your cedar chest.
What are the dimensions of a cedar chest?
The standard dimensions of a cedar chest vary depending on the make and model. Generally speaking, most of them measure around 40 – 44 inches long, 21 – 23 inches wide, and 18 – 20 inches high. Some models may have wider or longer dimensions.
Cedar chests also come in different heights and sizes, so it is important to compare the measurements before buying one. Additionally, some cedar chests have side compartments or drawers that may add extra inches to its dimensions.
What wood is for a hope chest?
A hope chest, sometimes referred to as a dowry chest, trousseau chest, or glory box, is a piece of furniture traditionally used by young women to store linens, clothing, and various personal items in anticipation of their future marriage or other major life events.
Traditionally, a hope chest is thought of as an heirloom passed down through generations, and as such, it is important to select a type of wood that is resistant to degradation over time and that can be used to create a beautiful, lasting piece of furniture.
Oak and cedar are both excellent woods for a hope chest. Oak is strong, durable, and naturally decay-resistant, making it a good choice for furniture that needs to stand up to regular use and time. Cedar is also renowned for its performance, with a pleasant smell, stunning grain patterns, and natural resistances to decay and insect infestations.
Whatever type of wood you choose, be sure to stain or treat the wood to protect it from damage, such as fading and cracking. Additionally, consider having your hope chest built by a professional carpenter who specializes in heirloom woodworking; that way you can be sure of the quality and long-term durability of your hope chest.
Do people still buy hope chests?
Yes, people still buy hope chests, also known as dowry chests or cedar chests, today. Hope chests were traditionally used for young women to store items for their dowry, but today, people use them for various purposes such as storage and decoration.
Some people may use them as a linen closet or to store blankets, quilts, and other items that need to be kept safe from pests and moths. They also serve as statement pieces for people’s décor and can provide extra seating for guests.
Hope chests are still available in many antique and furniture stores, as well as online stores, and remain popular choices for those who are looking for a way to add some charm and character to their space.
What is a wedding chest?
A wedding chest, also known as a wedding hope chest or dowry chest, is a storage chest filled with special items that a bride creates in preparation for her wedding day and married life. The contents of a wedding chest often symbolize many aspects of a wedding, such as hope, security, and fertility.
Common items found in a wedding chest usually consist of home goods such as bedding, table linens, dishes, glassware, cookware, and decorative items like jewelry, a mirror, and family heirlooms. Wedding chests vary in size and material, with many being hand-crafted from wood in order to pass down as a family heirloom.
Wedding chests have a long history and are seen in many cultures as traditional pieces of furniture. They are also often seen as a means of preparing for a successful marriage, as the items inside symbolize a happy, prosperous, and luxurious marriage.
Are cedar chests still popular?
Yes, cedar chests are still popular today. Often referred to as “hope chests,” these products are frequently used to store items such as wedding gifts and quilts. They are also known for their ability to protect clothing and linens from moths and other insects.
Cedar chests are a traditional storage option for many and also offer some aesthetic appeal. They are often considered to be quite valuable and have been passed down from generation to generation. The appeal of cedar chests has only grown over time and these products are now available in a variety of designs and sizes.
Some people even choose to customize their own cedar chest for their own unique style.
What can I do with an old hope chest?
There are a lot of different things you can do with an old hope chest. It can be a great decorative piece in any room of your house, providing that rustic and vintage charm. It can be a great way to store blankets and pillows, or for books, linens, and even clothing.
Many people choose to refinish old hope chests and use them as coffee tables or end tables. You could also repurpose it into a storage chest for toys, art supplies, or any other items you need to store away yet remain quickly accessible.
You could even use it as a bench or a foot of a bed! Get creative and you could find an abundance of handy uses for an old hope chest.
When did hope chests become popular?
Hope chests, also known as dowry chests, have been around since the 17th century. The earliest known hope chests date back to the 17th century, when they were first used as wedding gifts in rural European communities.
The hope chest was filled with articles of clothing, linens, and other handmade items that would symbolize the transition of a girl from a single woman to a married one. In times when money and possessions were scarce, this small wooden chest was a large, important contribution to a bride’s dowry.
Hope chests were popular in the 1800s and early 1900s, particularly among women in the United States. The prosperous industrial revolution of the era allowed women the opportunity to collect items for their hope chests throughout their unmarried lives.
Common items included quilts, blankets, and linens. Gifts of decorative pillows, hand towels, and lace curtains were passed down through the generations. Modern hope chests often include a variety of items including jewelry, books, DVDs, and photo albums.
These days, many people use hope chests as a way to store a family’s mementos and heirlooms. It is also popular to use them to keep items safe from natural disasters. Hope chests have remained a popular item for many families throughout history and continue to be a sentimental reminder of the past.
What is a cedar chest good for?
A cedar chest is a great storage option for any home. It is perfect for storing bulky or large items as it provides a larger capacity than most small storage solutions. It is also ideal for storing items that need to be kept fresh or protected from moisture, pests, and mildew as the cedar’s natural aromatic oils act as a natural deterrent for insects.
Cedar chests also provide a great option for storing fabrics, delicate linens, photographs, and paper items as natural cedar is known to resist mildew and fluctuations in temperature and humidity. Additionally, the cedar’s pleasant aroma may also keep items smelling fresh.
Finally, cedar chests are known to be quite durable, lasting generations.