Cherry deacons bench build completed

[rick4212]

I usually just post finished projects but thought I would post a build as I go. I’m building a shaker inspired deacons bench. It will be 54” x 17” x 34”high. Seat and back rail will be cherry. The spindles and legs will be oak.

Started with planing and squaring up the cherry seat.

Then drilling holes for the legs. I used a 100* angle for the legs. And then cut the the 100* angle for the spindles so drilling the spindles can be done at 90*.

[rick4212]

I used a guide to drill the spindle holes straight. Took my time and all 20 came out well.

[rick4212]

Milled up the back rail then drilled all the hole for the spindles. 7/16” holes for top spindles and 5/8” holes for bottom spindles.

[rick4212]

Shaping the bench seat. Toughest job but enjoyable.

[BrokenOlMarine]

This will be fun to watch...

[rick4212]

Turned the 6 legs and finished shaping the seat. Turning the legs wasn’t too bad because they’re fairly thick but turning the spindles will be harder because how thin they are and I’m not very good at turning.

[atgcpaul]

Any power tools to shape that seat or all muscle and iron? Either way, it's impressive. Thanks for sharing.

[rick4212]

Atgcpaul said: Any power tools to shape that seat or all muscle and iron? Either way, it's impressive. Thanks for sharing.

I used a router to remove a lot of the waste but what was left was a good 4 hours of work shaping the rest with hand tools.

[jteneyck]

Atgcpaul said: Any power tools to shape that seat or all muscle and iron? Either way, it's impressive. Thanks for sharing.

I used a router to remove a lot of the waste but what was left was a good 4 hours of work shaping the rest with hand tools.

Well the seat came out great and I'm enjoying the build.  Thanks for taking the time to do a build along; I know it takes extra effort, though I have found it keeps you focused on making progress, too.  

John

[GlenS]

Nice write up & great looking bench!! I look forward to additional posts!!