Replies

1. 
   nikkiwood | May 05, 2004 10:36am | #1

   I bought Norm's version years ago (New Yankee Workshop), and have built many that I have sold since then.

   I tweaked his original design slightly by making the curve for the back and seat slightly deeper, and I changed the angle on the back slightly so you can sit a bit more upright. These changes are easy to do: I would suggest making a set of posterboard patterns of the key parts, build one prototype, and then "tweak" to your taste.

   Also, I use 5/4 decking stock (instead of the 3/4" material he specs), which gives the chair a more substantial look/feel.

   I considered a lot of plans before I committed to this one. It is easy to build, but does require a bandsaw (for the two pieces that support the back). It also looks good, and is more comfortable than any Adirondack chair I have come across. I think this is due to the curved seat and back.

1. 
   knarf | May 20, 2004 11:45pm | #11

   I built Norm's version 15 years ago from 1/2" cedar. The chairs are still in daily use, light, easy to move around and very comfortable. I gave the plans and templates I made to a (former) friend who lost them. If any one has a copy I'd appreciate your help - would like to make 2 more and don't feel like trying to make patterns from the assembled chair.

2. 
   MikeWalsh | May 29, 2004 05:23pm | #12

   New Yankee Workshop Plans

   http://www.newyankee.com/getproduct3.cgi?202

2. 
   Froed | May 05, 2004 02:13pm | #2

   I haven't seen a plan for that particular one, it may be an original by the author.  I took the dimensions given in the article, copied the pictures, and worked it out.  The current FWW has an article on dimensioning from pictures, which may help you.  If you can't figure it out, e-mail me.  I MAY have some rough sketches I worked up (no promises), which may or may not be sufficient, as I tend to wing it most of the time.  Just give me a week or so to find them, since my summer shop time is even less than winter.

   Froed

1. 
   [email protected] | May 06, 2004 06:38am | #5

   Froed,

   It would be great if you could shoot me some plans. Any thoughts on the best material?

   Joe

1. 
   Froed | May 06, 2004 02:24pm | #6

   No problem.  The chairs I've made are all white oak, which makes each one about 50 lbs.  They stay put, even when my kids climb on the arms.

   Of course there's the usual list as well: teak, cypress, redwood, cedar, mahogany, ipe.  Just depends on the abuse they'll take, durability, and cost.

3. 
   pockethole | May 05, 2004 06:23pm | #3

   Joe,

   Several years ago I found what I consider to be the most comfortable and good looking Adirondack Chair at Gold Country Woodworks.  I have built five of them for myself and family.  Access the following website to see a picture and to order plans. http://www.gcwoodworks.com/adirondack_chair_woodworking_plans.htm

   Blackdome

1. 
   [email protected] | May 06, 2004 06:33am | #4

   Blackdome,

   You are right about the style. This is what I have been looking for. Thanks a lot for the recommendation.

   For the material, have you heard of using a wood like Ipe for an Adirondack? It's used a lot for decking but I'm not sure if you can get widths greater than 6". I was also thinking about mahogany because you get such a beautiful look and you can either stain or let it go grey.

   Thanks again.

   Joe

1. 
   pockethole | May 06, 2004 07:41pm | #8

   Joe,

   I have used pine, poplar and white oak.  I painted the pine and poplar. On the white oak I used  clear gloss waterbased Hydrocote Polyshield over Hydrocote Sealer for a very nice golden brown clear finish.  I have no experience with other woods.

   Blasckdome 

4. 
   RLoDico | May 06, 2004 03:54pm | #7

   I built this one in cypress.  It's oversized and very comfortable.  Also very easy to get in and out of.  The plans are free at:

   http://www.internetwoodworking.com/w5/chair.html

5. 
   forestgirl | May 06, 2004 08:09pm | #9

   I looked at that issue but didn't buy it.  Am I remembering correctly that while the back was curved, the front edge of the seat was flat (90 degrees seat-to-front)??  My favorite Adirondack design by far has a curved area for the back of your knees to contact.  It's a little more work, but much more comfortable.  (Sorry, don't have a plan, just the chair)

   forestgirl -- you can take the girl out of the forest, but you can't take the forest out of the girl ;-)
   Another proud member of the  "I Rocked With ToolDoc Club" .... :>) 

   
   

   ---

   Edited 5/6/2004 1:09 pm ET by forestgirl

6. 
   ASK | May 07, 2004 04:01pm | #10

   Joe,

   this may be no help at all but several years ago I bought a chair from Harbor Freight Tools. Not perfect but not bad. I made patterns before I put it together and I think I know where they are. I don't know if they still sell them but you can give them a try

   ASK