Last week, I saw a picture of a roof top that resembled a wave.
The roof prompted me to ponder the question: does a tabletop really need to be flat? Running with that notion, I carved this maple sample, dyed it black and waxed it to increase the sheen.
I was really pleased with the sample, (and so was everyone to whom I showed it) so I decided to use the carved pattern on a table top. I glued together two mahogany boards and began carving texture into the panel using a #7/10 gouge.
The surface felt so good under my fingertips.
After two-and-a-half hours of carving, I had completed the 12″ x 25″ panel. During that time I did a lot of thinking (and tweeting). I came up with the idea of calling it the 21st Century Writing Desk.
So, with the top done, my next step was to design a suitable base for it. I went to my computer and started playing with designs.
Sculptural Woodwork by Chris Wong 
Terrific work! Way to go Chris! I like your out of the box thinking.
Thank you!
Chris
That top is absolutely gorgeous! This gives me a couple ideas as well. Wonderful!
Thanks! Would you mind sharing your ideas?
Chris
Writing desk ha ,Smart ass :)
He he he! I saw your idea for metal hairpin legs, but I’m not convinced that they’d be my best option. I have some designs in the works.
Chris
you know I absolutely hate those or the like! glad you got the humor without me having to add an lol :)
Nice surface treatment. I suspect that it will patina especially well too as the high points wear and burnish themselves.
Hi Jeremy,
Thanks! I hope that this will be a beautiful piece and a tactile treat for many years to come.
Chris
Really nice texture. Would be great in an entrace hall.
But unless you only write on scratch pad, hand writing on a single sheet of paper needs a flat surface. One could use a desk blotter but it would hide the texture. For hand writing I would put a piece fo floating glass on it.
But maybe 21st century writing desk means a printer stand …
Sylvain
Hi Sylvain,
Thank you for the thoughtful comment.
I, too, can see it in an entryway. I feel that the surface needs to be in a place where people can experience it, and a desk is usually a little more private than a hall table.
When I came up with the name, 21st Century Writing Desk, I was thinking of computers. Most of my writing (not note-taking) takes place at one, as is happening right now.
Chris