Okay, I post here knowing there are imperfections, but I built my first box out of birds eye maple and purple heart and already a few solid lessons learned. The keys should be cut with a blade that leaves a flat kerf is a good one. Second, and I don't know what I was thinking, but the bottom panel is solid wood and... oh man..., yes... I glued it in! I guess time will tell what happens there. Any way, still need to clean it up a bit and install hinges. I'm a little stuck on what I should do to finish it. One idea is Danish Oil, then wax, another, Danish oil then shellac. Any suggestions there would be greatly appreciated. Also, I need to figure out a handle and the best butt hinges to buy.
One last thought. A pro carpenter friend of mine kind of sneered at the idea of making a box and I let it get to me. However, I really really enjoyed doing this and already have a few more ideas in my head. It's a great way to learn all types of techniques, you get to work with really nice wood and not break the bank and it is just plain fun.
P.S. Camera distorts on close up - the box is not curved.