CHAIR MAKING PLANS

Estimated build time: 6-9 days

A well rounded project that gives a fuller understanding of how a chair goes together. The spindle back chair introduces gentle steam bending alongside processes such as shaping, drilling sightlines, and fitting curved components, all of which come together in a sturdy and comfortable piece.

The plans set out each stage clearly so you can work through the build at your own pace, making it a good project for anyone interested in exploring traditional chair making.

The plan includes:

• Four A1 (22×34″) sheets with all dimensions in metric and imperial

• Front and side elevations

• Contour drawing for the seat saddling

• Cutting list and full-scale drawings of key parts

• Seat and steam-bending templates

• Step-by-step order of process with practical notes throughout

The plan is supplied as a digital download that can be printed full-scale at A1 or viewed on screen while working.

Estimated build time: 1 day

A simple, hand-tool project that's well suited to anyone starting out in chair making. The milking stool introduces a few core techniques such as shaping and fitting round tenons, planing components to size, and levelling the feet directly from the bench top.

It's a small, practical build that can be made with just a handful of tools. The process is steady and uncomplicated, giving a good sense of the accuracy and rhythm that chair making requires. The proportions and joinery also work well for a small bench if you want to adapt the design.

The plan includes:

• One A1 (22×34″) sheet with all dimensions in metric and imperial

• Front, side, and plan elevations

• Full-scale drawing of a leg and seat layout with sighting lines

• Step-by-step order of process with key points to look out for along the way

The plan is supplied as a digital download that can be printed full-scale at A1 or viewed on screen while working.

Estimated build time: 3-5 days

An intermediary project that brings together many of the core skills used in chair making. The Theydon stool builds on the foundational techniques introduced in the milking stool, adding seat saddling and the fitting of stretchers. These are two fundamental processes that add strength and comfort to the finished piece.

The drawings include all the information needed to work accurately and understand the relationship between the legs, seat, and stretchers, which will also prepare you well for more complex chair projects in the future.

The plan includes:

• Three A1 (22×34″) sheets with all dimensions in metric and imperial

• Front and side elevations

• Contour drawing for the seat saddling

• Cutting list and full-scale drawings of all parts

• Seat template

• Step-by-step order of process with guidance on fitting and assembly

The plan is supplied as a digital download that can be printed full-scale at A1 or viewed on screen while working.

Estimated build time: 7-10 days

A more advanced project that brings together several of the processes found in the spindle back chairs but with slightly more complexity. The Morton stool involves a tighter steam bend, along with a more complex seat saddling process. Both achievable when approached correctly and the result is a very satisfying chair to make.

The plans set out each stage clearly, making it possible to take your time and work carefully through the build. It’s a rewarding project for anyone familiar with chair making who wants to explore more a demanding project.

The plan includes:

• Four A1 (22×34″) sheets with all dimensions in metric and imperial

• Front and side elevations

• Contour drawings showing how to approach the seat saddling

• Cutting list and full-scale drawings of all components

• Seat and steam-bending templates

• Step-by-step order of process with practical notes on shaping and fit

The plan is supplied as a digital download that can be printed full-scale at A1 or viewed on screen while working.

Estimated build time: 7-10 days

A well balanced project that builds on the same processes as the spindle back chair, using gentle steam bending, shaping, and sightline drilling to create a lower and broader chair suited to a more relaxed sitting position.

The plans set out each stage clearly so you can work through the build at your own pace. It’s a satisfying project for anyone familiar with hand tools who wants to make a comfortable chair with presence.

The plan includes:

• Four A1 (22×34″) sheets with all dimensions in metric and imperial

• Front and side elevations

• Contour drawing for the seat saddling

• Cutting list and full-scale drawings of all components

• Seat and steam-bending templates

• Step-by-step order of process with practical notes throughout

The plan is supplied as a digital download that can be printed full-scale at A1 or viewed on screen while working.