Cavalier Cedar Chest

This is a Cavalier Cedar chest, crafted in the early 1920s to early 1930s. Cavalier exclusively manufactured these chests from 1923 to 1940. The absence of Phillips head screws, as all screws are slotted, indicates that this piece dates to no later than 1935, since the Phillips head screw was introduced in 1936.

Updates on the Chest

  • Some long overdue updates on the Cedar Chest and Singer projects. The cedar chest is not a problem; ran into where someone along the way painted the base and back of the chest. While stripping the paint I found out why. The original manufacturer made the base out of Poplar with a knot in it, which as the wood dried was falling out. A quick fix of wood filler and paint seemed to be the answer. I ended up replacing the whole corner piece with another piece of poplar. There was

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Cedar Chest Completed

Singer Sewing Machine - Pre 1900's

The serial number on this sewing machine indicates it was produced between 1897 and 1900. Unfortunately, the machine has suffered significant water damage, and the veneer is entirely deteriorated.

Singer Cabinet Update


Here’s the latest on the Singer sewing machine cabinet. I encountered some challenges with the veneer, which I anticipated; however, the mold surprise was unexpected. Consequently, I ended up stripping more veneer than I had originally planned. On a brighter note, the drawers are currently 90% complete, while the table tops stand at about 75%. Most of the tops require new veneer, and I’ve either replaced or am in the process of replacing the smaller sections of veneer that were missing. It has certainly become a long and painstaking process.

Update on The Sewing Machine


We are finally nearing completion. The drawers and their accompanying components have been beautifully stained. Next, we will apply a coat of clear grain filler, followed by two coats of sealer, five coats of clear lacquer, and a final buffing job that will give a mirror-like finish. The tops are still undergoing the replacement of their veneer, but we anticipate this will be finished soon.

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Completed Sewing Machine