What’s Inside This Suspicious Box? Find Out What This Strange Box Really Does!
September 3, 2024
source: Wikimedia
What is Wood Steaming Box?
Wood steaming box is a device employ by woodworkers in order to soften the wood.” Wood is treated with steam and this makes it to soften and can therefore be shaped into various curves without the risk of it splitting. This technique is often employed in the making of curved woodwork in furniture, boats or any other object that needs curved wood for construction.
How It Works
It is quite simple but one has to be very careful while doing it. Wood is then put in the box that is to maintain heat and steam. There is a steam generator or boiler is connected with the box and the box is filled with steam and the temperature is also increased. Gradually, the wood gets to soak up the moisture and heat, making the fibers to become more pliable and hence easily to mould.
The hook that is fastened to the box in your garage indicates that the previous owner may have used the contents often to get or put in pieces of wood for steaming. The position of the box is also a good strategy to ensure that the steam does not spread and also not to come into direct contact with the skin because this may lead to burns.
The Craft Behind It
Wood steaming is an age-old practice in woodworking that makes it possible to come up with beautiful curved parts without having to make cuts or joints which may compromise the strength of the wood. It is a technique that has been done over the years and is helpful in making of goods such as chairs since the backrest and the armrest have to be of a curved structure formed without breaks.
A Look into the History
It is hence through this wood-steaming box that is currently stored in your garage that you get to learn about the previous homeowner’s past practices. They might be a woodworker, a carpenter or someone who admired the skill of shaping wood to his or her desired form. It is rather interesting to learn that not only does it show the creativity of woodworking methods but also brings history to your new house.
When you unpack and arrange, this box may just entice you to try woodworking or at least, this box is a beautiful and useful addition to the history of the home. Perhaps somewhere in your new place there are other hidden treasures and stories waiting for you?
