Replies

1. 
   ring | May 16, 2006 09:06am | #1

   Michael,

   I usually glue up each leg as a hollow box, with 45° miters on all 4 corners.  You must have an accurate table saw to do this, but the glue-up itself is extremely easy.  If the pieces are cut correctly, it all goes together with a few wraps of duct tape or similar.  The hollow inside should be filled (with any stable wood you've got) in the areas where your mortises will be cut afterwards.  Just glue a fill block in at the same time you wrap up the leg with glue.  The legs made this way are very good-looking and the joints do not open.  Major drawback - you need to work out what to do if the top end of the leg is visible.  If the design does not cover it with a cap or turning or other detail, you need to "create" something to hide the hollow construction.

   DR 

2. 
   BruceS | May 16, 2006 04:34pm | #2

   One thing you may want to try is a 45 degree lock miter bit,  but that will give you a hollow core post.  I used it to make the posts for a mission style bed, where I wanted the 1/4 sawn look 360. Stickley used a version of the lock miter on their furniture.  But the 45 degree lock miter bit is a tricky bit to use, as the set up has to be dead on and not forgiving in that respect. When buying a Lock miter bit make sure that it has tapered locks, much easier to glue up. And not the square edge tongues that some of them have.  I would suggest making up some prototype legs while trying the lock miter bit if your not familiar with the bit and how to use it.  Another important note,  All of the stock has to be EXACTLY the same thickness for the set up to work properly.  A great bit when mastered.  5/4 or even 4/4  Brizilian cherry if you can find it will be plenty strong.  10 being the hardest BC rates a good 9.5.  But the results will be stunning.

   Work Safe,  Count to 10 when your done for the day !!

   Bruce S. 

    

1. 
   mtburton | May 17, 2006 04:07am | #3

   Thanks for the post, bought one today and already made the posts for the footboards.