Looking good Earl. looks like turning is working out. Those handles look as nice as what I usually see. Like the knife block? Or is it blocks? Pics had me guessing? 

I think this is your Mexican Bottle opener guess.




Veneer is sometimes a PIA if the thin veneer Gods find you. The best thing I can suggest is make your own if you do much of it, and saw them as thick as they can apply, then you can even use a power sander if ya want, otherwise learn scarper cards, and make sure they are sharp, sanding is the kiss of the Devil on the usual store bought thins. But learning new to you stuff is always a win. Nice builds.