The Top Cross Rails

In like manner cut the top cross rails of the soft wood material. You will notice that all of the relish is on the top side of the top rails; this is arranged in this manner to avoid cutting the mortises so close to the top ends of the leg. Make sure that these rails are exactly the same length between shoulders as the corresponding bottom rails.

Assembling

All joints are to be glued. Put the cross rails in their proper position and assemble one pair of legs; clamp them to make sure the joints fit closely. Test with the try-square to be sure they are perfectly square. In like manner assemble the other pair of legs. Glue the end rails in their proper positions, thus completing the assembling of the stool frame. Clamp securely. In any glued up piece of work of this kind, be very careful that it is in line in every direction; sight through to see that all the cross rails stand parallel.

The Top

The top is to be made of soft wood. It will not be necessary to surface it because it is to be covered with upholstering material. These pieces are to be nailed in position between the top cross rails.

Be sure that the stool is perfectly square when the top is nailed in position.

Finishing

The finishing should be done before the upholstering is put on. With a sharp steel scraper and sandpaper remove all tool marks, pencil marks or rough places (Chapter II., Paragraph 16). Stain the work the desired color. As this is a piece of furniture, it should be very carefully finished. After staining the desired color (Chapter IV., Paragraph 54), add a coat of filler (Chapter IV., Paragraph 55); finish with shellac (Chapter IV., Paragraph 57), or varnish (Chapter IV., Paragraph 58).

Upholstering

After the finish is thoroughly dry, do the upholstering. A few layers of cotton batting should be used to give the rounded appearance, and to form the cushion before the upholstering material is put on. This batting should be evenly spread over the top of the stool. Carefully stretch the upholstering material, and tack it with carpet tacks on the under side of the top rail. Be very careful about cutting out around the corners to make it fit the legs neatly; tighten it evenly in every direction to avoid wrinkles. Trim with the tape and ornamental upholstering tacks as indicated in the photograph.

Optional and Home Projects Employing Similar Principles.

Simple Foot Stool

1. Suggestion No. 1 shows a plan of constructing a very simple mortised and tenoned foot stool. It may be upholstered, or have a hardwood top, as desired.

Braided Top Stool

2. A very pleasing stool or seat can be easily constructed in accordance with suggestion No. 2. The top is to be braided of cord of some suitable quality.

Straight Chair

3. The principles set forth in the construction of this stool are very similar to those employed in the construction of a simple, straight chair. One pair of legs would have to be sufficiently long to extend above the seat, and provide the back. Other modifications should be worked out in your drawing before undertaking the work.