This project was built by Drew Fisher at Fisher’s Shop. If you’re interested in woodworking projects that blend creativity and precision, be sure to check out his channel for more builds.
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Design Inspiration
Drew set out to create a TV stand that would provide both function and style. The goal was to design a piece that concealed messy cables and stereo equipment while offering a sleek, modern aesthetic.
Using Fusion 360, he developed a concept that combined mid-century modern influences with contemporary design. The standout feature was a continuous wavy inlay running across the cabinet doors, giving the piece a distinctive and artistic touch.
Choosing the Right Materials
For this build, Drew selected walnut boards known for their durability and rich grain pattern. Finding the right boards was important, as they needed to be thick enough for strength while maintaining a clean and consistent look.
Once the walnut was sourced, the next step was milling the boards to ensure they were properly prepared for assembly. This process involved flattening and cutting each piece to the correct dimensions, ensuring smooth and stable surfaces.
Preparing and Milling the Wood
Working in a small basement shop added some challenges when handling long boards. To make the process efficient, Drew positioned his planer to allow for easy flipping of the boards, ensuring even thickness.
After milling, each board was carefully laid out and inspected to determine the best grain orientation. Taking the time to arrange the wood properly helped create seamless panels that enhanced the final look of the stand.
Assembling the Panels
Once the boards were ready, the next step was to join them into panels. To ensure strong joints and proper alignment, Drew used a biscuit joiner to cut precise slots along the edges.
After applying glue and inserting the biscuits, the panels were clamped together and left to dry. This process was repeated for all the required panels, ensuring each one was solid and ready for further shaping.
Shaping and Structuring the Stand
With the panels dry, sanding was crucial to achieving a smooth, professional finish. Long sections were cut using a track saw, ensuring precision in each piece.
Rabbets were then cut into the ends of the long boards, adding structure and support. These cuts allowed for secure connections between pieces, reinforcing the stability of the stand.
Assembling the TV Stand
To ensure the stand could hold heavy loads, support pieces were installed at the back of the unit. Loose tenon joinery using dowels helped create strong and lasting connections between the structural elements.
Careful alignment and clamping ensured everything remained square during assembly. This step was critical in preventing misalignment that could affect the stability and appearance of the finished piece.
Installing the Top and Feet
The top was installed once the main framework was secured. To provide a sturdy base, chunky walnut feet were added, complementing the stand’s overall aesthetic while ensuring durability.
The feet were created by laminating multiple pieces of walnut, which not only enhanced strength but also maintained a cohesive look. Their solid construction helped balance the proportions of the stand.
Crafting the Cabinet Doors
One of the most eye-catching elements of this project was the wavy inlay featured on the cabinet doors. Thin strips of wood were cut and carefully glued into place along a flowing, hand-drawn design.
Once the inlays were set, the doors were sanded smooth to blend the different wood elements seamlessly. Hidden hinges were installed to maintain a clean and modern look without visible hardware.
Finishing the TV Stand
Sanding was done up to a fine grit to remove any rough edges and bring out the beauty of the walnut grain. A non-toxic wood finish was then applied, enhancing the wood’s natural color while providing protection.
After allowing the finish to cure, the TV stand was moved into the living space. The rich walnut tones and elegant wavy inlays created a striking focal point that blended well with the surrounding decor.
The Finished Piece
The final result was a stunning TV stand that combined artistic detail with everyday functionality. The custom design provided ample storage while maintaining a modern, streamlined appearance.
With its unique inlays and handcrafted construction, this project showcased how woodworking can transform a practical piece into a true work of art. The ability to customize dimensions and materials also made it a versatile build for any home.
Watch the Full Build
Drew’s detailed video walks through every step of the process, making it easy to follow along and learn from his techniques. His approach to woodworking blends precision with creativity, offering valuable insights for woodworkers of all skill levels.