Steve achieved a significant career milestone when he created this outstanding hatbox as part of his chief initiation. His goal was to showcase his artistic talent. He used exotic woods and epoxy to design a cutter man pin-inspired hatbox that honored his 12 years of sea time. The front of the hatbox features the Intarsia technique, which involves using different shapes, sizes, and wood species to create a mosaic-like picture with an illusion of depth. Steve carefully selected Maple, Walnut, Padauk, Bubinga, Mango, and Lignum wood based on grain pattern and coloring to achieve a stained glass look. This project utilized multiple techniques and tools, and Steve spent over 30 hours on it. His efforts paid off as he won the Best Hatbox Trophy at the CCTI dinner. This remarkable achievement showcases Odd Squad Woodworking's dedication to every project.

Steve used Padauk, Maple, and Walnut Woods when making his charge book to complement the hatbox, making them a matching set. He chiseled the book's pages and used a spokeshave to round the spine, resulting in a remarkable piece. The book opens like a drawer by pulling on the bookmark on top. Steve took great care in carving the Chief Anchor with curly maple, then attached it to the front of the book. He also utilized a laser engraver to inscribe his name and the motto onto a maple burl banner.