My wife saw a bookshelf with a metal frame in Crate and Barrel and asked me to make something similar out of wood. It will be about 5 or 6 feet high with a maybe 5 shelves. Using the latest high tech software :), I’ve drawn what it will look like from the side – the angle at the top is about 15 degrees.
I’m planning to use 4/4 wood, about 4 inches wide (i.e. when viewed from the side as on my picture, the wood will be 4 inches wide.) According to my calculations, the mating surfaces at the top will then be about 12 inches long.
I’m interested to hear suggestions about what joint to use at the top. I’m also thinking about using contrasting wood, or possibly putting an additional block of wood between the mating surfaces – could add a nice decorative touch this way.
Mervyn
Replies
If I were making this piece, I'd use either a splined miter or a pegged bridle joint.
Jeff
Mervyn, if the angle at the top is 15 degrees then the contact area would be about 15" long. With modern glue and biscuits the joint should be plenty strong. If you are concerned about strength you could drill 3/8" dia. holes 2" - 2-1/2" deep and use three 3" deck screws to secure the back frame to the front.
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