Replies

1. 
   Seth_Frankel_ | Feb 28, 2002 05:30pm | #1

   *
   Ken,

   A figure 8 fastner is basically a siamese twin washer - two washers joined at their sides. You can screw down into the rail and up into the top by positioning them so that one of the rings hangs off the rail.

   The upper-right photo on page 54 shows them in all their glory.

   As for sources, I'd have to hunt a round a bit but I'll let you know if I come across any, but I'm sure someone will post a source before I find one.

   Shop made solutions are easy as well. I generally make a slot mortise in the rails and make blocks that have a little wing that fits in the slot and screw the block to the top.

   A napkin sketch of this technique is below.

   Best,
   Seth

1. 
   John_O'Connell | Feb 28, 2002 11:32pm | #2

   *Rockler I think has them.

1. 
   ken_chase58 | Mar 01, 2002 05:04pm | #3

   *John: Thanks much. I have always made my own wood connectorsas yourself but my current project would be better servedwith the figure eights. However, I still don't see how theyallow wood movement. Unless they pivot or somehow expand, howdo they fulfill their promiseken

1. 
   Robert_Phillips | Mar 01, 2002 05:06pm | #4

   *woodcraft.com or your local store - they carry themRobert

1. 
   Seth_Frankel_ | Mar 01, 2002 06:32pm | #5

   *Ken,The swivel on the screws. If you have them at a slight angle then expansion will just move them as needed.Best,Seth