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L.A. Craftsman Style: Column Room-Partition and Picture Molding From "Restoration Realities" episode DRTR-203

(Continued from page 3)

With the plinth base complete, work can now begin on the column that will extend from the base to the ceiling. The column is made from the same material as the base and is formed using four pieces of stock cut to the proper dimensions to create a column that is square in shape. The column is formed using the pocket-hole jig in combination with biscuit joinery. The basic steps are outlined below.

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Building the Column

• In order to replicate the existing column, take measurements to determine the width and height of column above plinth base (figure O).

• Cut the stock to the appropriate dimensions to create all four sides of the column. First, cut the stock to overall length. Then rip the pieces to width, allowing for two wider pieces to form the outside faces, and two narrower pieces to be placed between them.

• Use the pocket-hole jig to create the holes for the screws that will be used to join three sides of the column from the inside. Using the jig, secure three of the column faces (figure P).

  Figure O

  Figure P

  
  

  	Figure Q
  	Figure R
  	Figure S
  	Figure T

• Attaching the fourth column face presents a challenge since it won't be possible to reach inside the column to attach it with screws as was the case on the first three sides. Our solution is to secure the fourth piece using biscuit joinery.

Using a biscuit joiner to fasten two pieces of wood together is a quick and simple way to create joints. A biscuit joiner uses a small blade to cut a crescent shaped hole in the opposite edges of two pieces of wood. An oval shaped wooden biscuit, made from compressed beech shavings, is covered with glue, placed in the slot, and the two boards are clamped together. The most common sizes of biscuits are #20, #10 and #0. Some manufactures are now offering a mini biscuits size as well. This is a great alternative to traditional woodworking techniques that use metal fasteners.

• To create this biscuit joint, measure and mark the locations for the biscuit slots, then cut the slots in the face of the final piece (figure Q).

• Cut the corresponding holes in the edges of the adjoining pieces (figure R).

• Apply wood glue to the biscuits and into the biscuit slots. (A small paintbrush is handy for this.)

• Insert the biscuits into the slots (figure S) and set the final piece in position (figure T). The glue causes the wood to swell within the slots creating a tight fit. Once the glue has hardened, a strong joint is formed.

• Fill holes as required, and sand with fine-grit sandpaper for final finish.
  
  
  

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  RELATED PROJECTS: Folk-Victorian Foyer Renovation: Introduction Folk-Victorian Foyer Renovation: Ceiling and Walls Folk-Victorian Foyer Renovation: Transom and Door Replacement Folk-Victorian Foyer Renovation: Recap

  
  

  ALSO IN THIS EPISODE:
  	L.A. Craftsman Style: Column Room-Partition and Picture Molding