When pattern routing the rear legs for a chair I got a rather large chipout in some wild grain – about 1/4″ deep, 1″ x 3″. Normally I would just make a new leg (or have made a spare) but I was working with what was probably the last piece of 8/4 Alder in Michigan.
The damaged spot is on the inside of a rear leg so it is not very visible but it should be repaired. What is the best procedure? I have plenty of 4/4 stock.
Jerry
Replies
Make a Dutchman.
A Dutchman is a piece of alder fitted into the tearout. Select a piece of alder with identical grain. Then smooth the tearout with chisels, planes or files and fit the new piece in.
Lee
If most of it came off in one large splinter and you can find that piece lying on the floor, apply some glue and clamp it in place with some blue tape. Those kind of patches are invisible after sanding and finishing. The jagged tear line on the splinter will match the divot and you'll get a perfect fit patch.
If you build it he will come.
The splinter "disappeared" somewhere in the shop. I'll try the Dutchman. H'mm! Wonder how that name came about?Thanks, Jerry
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