Replies

1. 
   MSA1 | Jun 14, 2008 04:30am | #1

   Sweeeeeet. Was that done with a steam box. Some look like the grain follows around the curve, And some look like they were cut out of a bigger piece of wood.

1. 
   mathewson | Jun 14, 2008 04:46am | #2

   They are 2 or 3 boards run through the bandsaw at about 1/8" & then laminated back together around a bending form. Worked out pretty well for the 1st try, there are a couple of things I'd do different on the next one, but overall I'm happy.

1. 
   Jim_Allen | Jun 14, 2008 09:17pm | #3

   What would you do differently? Looks good so far...keep up the progress pics please? Bob's next test date: 12/10/07

1. 
   mathewson | Jun 15, 2008 02:51am | #4

   The changes I'd make would be to research the material better before starting the job & the form brackets. The job is to have walnut treads with painted risers & maple handrail. For the treads the bottom 2 need to be at least 12 feet long. I couldn't get walnut long enough to do the tread in on piece so I will have to join two boards. Since I don't want 1 straight cut on the joint I'm going to have to stagger the joint. A fair amount of work which I could have avoided with a little better planing.
   For the brackets I'd use 1/2" X 6" angle iron slices about 1 1/2" long and then elevate the clamping platform a good 2 inches to allow room to turn the handles on the clamps without having to drag my knuckles on the table. Currently missing the skin on about 4 knuckles. Live & learn.....

1. 
   mathewson | Jun 17, 2008 04:37am | #5

   Starting the fitting process

2. 
   MSA1 | Jun 17, 2008 04:41am | #6

   Man, you really are talented. That carving of the dog looks real.:>)

3. 
   Ted W. | Jun 17, 2008 05:30am | #7

   I'm not sure what impresses me more, the workmanship or the photography. Nice job you're doing there.--------------------------------------------------------

   Cheap Tools at MyToolbox.netSee some of my work at TedsCarpentry.com

4. 
   mathewson | Jun 17, 2008 05:43am | #8

   Thanks, this job has been a real learning experience.

5. 
   Ted W. | Jun 17, 2008 06:17am | #9

   Aren't they all to some extent? That's what I love about this work. Every day is a new adventure. :D--------------------------------------------------------

   Cheap Tools at MyToolbox.netSee some of my work at TedsCarpentry.com

6. 
   JohnT8 | Jun 17, 2008 06:08pm | #10

   That's pretty cool stuff.

   Careful not to trip over the dog on the way down the steps.

    jt8

   "A little 'enthusiasm' and all problems seems small!"

2. 
   McDesign | Jun 17, 2008 07:04pm | #11

   Beautiful work!

   Is that air-dried walnut?  Seems purpley in that way - I like it better.

   Forrest

1. 
   mathewson | Jun 17, 2008 07:38pm | #12

   It is kiln-dried, but better looking than most I've seen.

3. 
   mathewson | Jun 27, 2008 04:19am | #13

   Got pulled away for another project but here are a couple of pics. Nearly done.

   
1. 
   dovetail97128 | Jun 27, 2008 05:24am | #14

   Beautiful !!!
   They can't get your Goat if you don't tell them where it is hidden.

2. 
   jeffwoodwork | Jun 27, 2008 05:39am | #15

   Nice, Walnut treads and Oak floor? 

1. 
   mathewson | Jun 27, 2008 05:45am | #16

   Yes, the whole house has oak floors & the owner wanted the staircase to be different. The treads, newels & rail will be stained dark with the balusters a off-white. At first it sounded a little odd but when taken with the rest of the changes I think it will work well.