I made a footstool, approx 12 x 14 – 4 legs with 8 rails, all m & t joints. The top was 4 pieces approx 12 x 14, again with m & t joints and the top was pre-woven rattan. My guiding light is very pleased with the result. I would like to make another but welcome suggestions on the 12 x 14 top on joints other than m & t – – something that will dress it up a little and challenge my (?)skills. And even if you have suggestion on joinery for the 4 legs & rails I will welcome them. I do want to retain the rattan top though.
Replies
Yo willy , How about a picture , it would be easier to comment on .
dusty
sorry, I don't have the camera for that.
willy ,
When you say " pre woven rattan " , do you mean cane ? does it fit into a groove ? I have done cane and rush work for over 30 years and can appreciate the planning it takes in new construction of a custom piece .
Tell me more
dusty
Yes, it goes into a groove about 1/4" wide and approx 3/8 deep. The first stool turned out good but I would like to dress up the top. I am planning on 45 degree corners (cherry) with a maple spline but was wondering if there are other methods of joinery for the top that would enhance it.
I used the pre-woven rattan to rejuvinate 3 dinning chairs that are about 100 + years old. I have also done actual weaving on a canoe seat about 10 years back. It's an enjoyable challenge.
I would caution you about mitering or 45° the cane / seat frame .
Unless the frame members are real wide it would be stronger M & T or stub tenons . I know it is small but I have seen the cane pull loose frames out of whack , you know when it dries it gets taut .
some more delicate pieces may have 45 corners around canework
dusty
What about a 45o with a m & t or a floating tenon? The top frame is 11 x 14 - 7/8 thick x 2 1/2 wide
Edited 4/3/2008 3:49 pm ET by willy
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