I said I'd bring an observation hive to the farmer's market...

So I told a friend of mine that I'll bring an observation hive to the local farmer's market at the end of this month.

The problem is, I don't have one! I've always wanted one so I'm taking this opportunity to finally do it. I'm on a tight schedule but failure is not an option!

I started with the plans from beesource.com (I love their forums) and made some modifications. I decided to use medium frames and since 3 mediums equals 2 deeps that makes it a four frame observation hive. I've got a table saw and a hand router so this is doable, right?

I talked to a local queen producer and ordered up three queens (I want to overwinter some nucleus hives for the spring) which will be ready a week before the farmer's market. That means my goal is to have the hive stained and aired out two days before the bees arrive. It's a lot to do but I'll enjoy doing it!