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MODERN
CABINETWORK
FURNITURE 6 FITMENTS

PRINTED IN GREAT BRITAIN AT

THE DARIEN

PRESS,

EDINBURGH

Plate

Frontispiece-.

China Cabinei

in

{Designed

Coromandel, Palm,

and made

by

Mr

I!'.

\ni

Snakewood.

Willingale.)

I.

MODERN
CABINETWORK
FURNITURE & FITMENTS
an account of the theory & practice

in the

production of all kinds of cabinetwork

& furniture with chapters on the growth

and progress of design and construction

Illustrated byoveriooo practical workshop
drawings photographs & original designs

BY PERCY A.WELLS
JdeacfcfCahnetTDepartment, CCCStwrecfitcfi lickniccdjnst:

Sdver 'MedaCfcst, Roved Society

cfJivts.

& JOHN HOOPER,mb.e.

"Honours Sdver'Medcddst, Citv6i(jwlds cfLnidcnhJnstautje.
Silver "Medat Carpenters' CompaniiCaJknet Section.

T/urdEdzticm Revised with adcktioTiaClUustrcuions

PHILADELPHIA

J.B.LIPPLNCOTT COMPANY.

TT/

First Edition Printed

1909

Reprinted

1911

Second Edition Printed

1918

Third Edition Printed

1922

Do.

Printed in (,>;/ Britail

PREFACE
CONSIDERING the importance of the Craft

of Cabinetmaking,

work has been published dealing fully

During the last
with its modern developments and progress.
have
place
in methods of
changes
taken
twenty-five years remarkable
it is

surprising that no

production as well as

"

and to-day the term

ing,
in

in taste

craftsmanship than

it

and fashion as they

Cabinetmaking

did formerly.

"

It

affect

covers a

house furnish-

much wider scope

has been the aim of the

authors to produce a book which illustrates step by step the practice

of the craft in

all

its

applications, from the

making of a

joint, to the

and complete construction of the numerous

and various types of furniture and woodwork which the Cabinetmaker
They have also endeavoured to combine
is called upon to make.
essential features in good design and construction with modern pro-

preparation, setting out,

and

cesses
It

is

materials.

hoped

that the

and others engaged

book

public interested in furniture.

in

will

meet the needs of the Craftsman

in the trade, as well as a

Much

numerous and increasing

of the material has been prepared

connection with lectures given during the past few years at the

L.C.C. Shoreditch Technical Institute.

PERCY A. WELLS.
JOHN HOOPER.
August 1909.

NOTE TO THIRD EDITION.

The

rapid

sale

of

the

second,

of "

Modern Cabinet Work"

and

is

a further proof of

its

is

and

call

for

third

edition

particularly gratifying to the Authors,

appreciation by Designers,

Craftsmen,

and the Furniture Trade generally, both at home and abroad.

This new edition has been brought up to date by the inclusion of fresh text and plates illustrating some recent developments

hoped that the book

enhance the prestige of an ancient and interesting
in

modern

furniture.

It

is

will

continue to

craft.

PERCY A. WELLS.
JOHN HOOPER
May

1922.

NOTE OF ACKNOWLEDGMENT
Thanks

are

tendered

sincerely

to

drawings

designs, photographs, or

the following gentlemen for the use of

The

Mr

Hon. the Earl of Dysart

Right

Mr Ambrose Heal (Heal

& Son, Ltd.) Messrs Geo. Trollope & Sons Mr Harry Hems, Exeter
Mr Frank Stuart Murray Mr H. E. Marillier (Morris & Co.) Mr George
Mr E. R. Gimson Mr Charles Spooner Mr S. Hicks, Principal of
Jack
the Shoreditch Technical Institute
Mr W. B. Dalton Mr R. Waterer, Jun.
(Waterer & Son, Chertsey)
Mr J. P. White, Bedford Mr E. J. Minihane
Messrs Wilson Bros., Leeds Mr Fred Skull, High Wycombe Mr D. Richter,
The Bath Cabinet Makers Co.; Mr W. Willingale Mr A. Gregory; Messrs
Oetzmann & Co.; and Mr Park (London and North- Western Railway ComLieut.-Col.

G. B. Croft-Lyons

J.

S.

Henry

Thanks

pany).

examples
and

of

Mr

E.

The Authors
processes

drawings

Smith

Newbery

J.

Shirley

Mr Thomas

to

Flashman

for

special

&

Johnson,

designs

Co. for the loan of

Mr Edward

they

have

Pite,

prepared.

Mr A. Carr for photographs of workshop

Gummer and Mr A. Jessop for assistance with
Mr John Dunkin for kindly reading proofs to Mr Percy J.

are also indebted to

and
to

are also due to Messrs A.

metalwork, and

to

Mr

G.

for the lettering of the

lightening a heavy task with

cover and title-page

much

and

to Messrs Batsford for

help and consideration.

PERCY A. WELLS.
JOHN HOOPER.

CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION.

I.

PAGE

Origin of Cabinetmaking

New Modern

Developments

---------

Their Construction Cutting Actions Care of A

Tool Chest

Tools

Prices

Cabinetmaker, Old and

TOOLS, APPLIANCES, MATERIALS.

II.

Hand

The

Cabinetmaker's Kit

DRAWING, GEOMETRY, DESIGN TECHNICAL TERMS.

Instruments and their Uses Practical Geometry Setting out Polygons Scales
III.

Ellipses, &c.

Cabinet
IV.

All

Drawing and Perspective

Technical Terms

-22

JOINTS AND THEIR APPLICATION.

----------

Types of Joints Mitre, Key, Dovetailing, Dowel, Tenon, Shutting and Hingeing
Diagrams to Illustrate their Use in Various Jobs Curved and Straight
Joints

Work

V.

WORKSHOP

2,6

PRACTICE.

Practical Instruction in Bench Methods

Sharpening and Setting Tools Setting out
and Preparing Stuff Working Mouldings Cutting Tenons Mortising All Kinds
of Dovetailing
Making Doors, Drawers, Plinths, Cornices Building up Curved

Work Ploughing,
VI.

How

to Set out

Tables
Tables

Grooving, Tongueing, and Finishing

54

FRAMED UP WORK, TABLES,

&C.

and Make Flap, Writing, Card, Toilet, Tea, and all Kinds of Fancy
Tables Telescope Tray Frame Draw and Other Dining

Extending
-

88

140

CARCASE WORK.
Carcase Wardrobes Chests of Drawers Bookcases Cabinets
VII.

The Making

of a
Corner, Curved, and Shaped Fronts and

Ends

Solid and Veneered Work, &c.

BEDSTEADS AND MISCELLANEOUS FURNITURE.

The Construction of Clock Cases Screens Bedsteads Revolving Bookcases Dumb
Waiters Hanging Cabinets, Hall Furniture, &c.
VIII.

184

VENEERS AND VENEERING, MARQUETRY

AND INLAYING.
Veneers Saw Cut and Knife Cut Preparation of Stuff Methods of Laying and
Finishing Stringing, Banding, and Building up Patterns Inlaying
Pearl,
Ivory, and Tortoise-Shell Buhl Work and French Marquetry Repairs of Old
IX.

in

Work, &c.

210

CONTENTS

X.

FOREMEN'S WORK, PRACTICAL SETTING OUT AND

APPLIED GEOMETRY.
PAGE

Setting out for Hand or Machine Work Workshop and Office Methods in CostingDeveloping Shapes
up Materials and Preparing Estimates, Cutting Lists,
Raking and Curved Mouldings Setting out Gothic Tracery
in Curved Work
Taking Templates and General Foreman's Work, &c.

&c

XI.

NOTES ON THE HISTORIC STYLES OF FURNITURE,

WITH EXAMPLES OF MODERN WORK.

Account of Cothic, French, Renaissance, Elizabethan, and Jacobean Styles

Chippendale, Sheraton, and other Eighteenth Century Makers Examples of
Furniture by Modern Designers

...

lirief

XII.

225

250

CONSTRUCTIONAL AND DECORATIVE BRASSWORK,

MOVEMENTS AND

FITTINGS.

Types of Hinges Locks Quadrants Stays Glass Movements Handles Methods

of Setting out Hinges, Stays, and Cylinder Fall Movements, &c.
-

XIII.

260

MACHINE TOOLS AND MACHINING MOULDINGS.

Types of Machines Moulding Dovetailing Tenoning Planing Circular, Band, and

Frame Saws- Mouldings, Examples of Greek, Roman, and Later Periods Lathes

and Lathe Work

PANELLING AND FITMENTS.

XIV.

Taking of Templates Preparation of Walls Methods of Fixing Panelling, Dados,

Ceiling Work, &c.
Fireplaces, Bedroom, and other Fitments

XV.

271

276

SPECIAL FURNITURE FOR SHOPS, OFFICES,

AND MUSEUMS.
Fittings Counter and Bank Work Air-Tight Show Case Making Office
Cabinets -Museum Furniture Reading Desks Print Cases Paper Stands, &c.

Shop

XVI.
Chairs and

XVII.

CHAIR MAKING.

Loose-Seat and Stuff-Over Frames Methods of ConProportions and Sizes Styles, with a Chronological Chart

Couches Cane

struction

Cramping-

296

312

ENGLISH, FOREIGN, AND COLONIAL WOODS.

Growth and Structure of Trees Hard and Soft Wood -Ports of Shipment Sizes of
Lo^s,
Methods of Conversion-- Seasoning, Shrinkage, and Warpage Defects
Prices
-Description of over 200 Timbers Special Section on
Spe<

.......

326

GLOSSARY OF TECHNICAL AND WORKSHOP TERMS,

NAMES, AND REFERENCES

355

A SHORT LIST OF BOOKS ON HISTORIC FURNITURE

372

INDEX

377

Colonial Furniture

Woods

OF DOUBLE-PAGE AND

LIST

PHOTOGRAPHIC PLATES
(Single-Page Drawings are included

in

the General Index.)

P. signifies Photograph, and D.P. Double Page.

PLATE
I.

II.

...

Fifteenth Century Gothic Cabinet

III.

The Queen's Saloon

IV.

Design

for a

Henry

in the

Royal Train (L.

Dining-Room

V. Cottage Furniture,
Ltd.

by

in the

&

Jacobean

Spooner

Bedroom

by T. Johnson

Furniture, by

Glued Joints

,,

,,

,,

Halved and Bridle Joints

,,

,,

,,

Mortise and Tenon Joints

IX.

,,

Dovetail Joints

X.

,,

,,

Mitred Joints

XL

,,

,,

,,

Framing Joints

XII.

,,

,,

,,

Hingeing and Shutting Joints

,,

,,

Miscellaneous Joints

,,

Connecting Joints

VII.
VIII.

XIII.

XIV.

,,

,,

XV.

Telescope Table

XVI.

Billiard

Table

XVII. Mahogany Sideboard

XVIII. Painted Sideboards

XIX. Cabinet

in

Coromandel and Satinwood

XX. Satinwood Writing Cabinet

XXI. Satinwood Wardrobe
XXII. China Cabinet

Cabinet with Dutch Marquetry

XXIV, A Buhl Wardrobe and

XXV. A Dutch
XXVI. A Gothic
XXVII.

Inlaid Clock Case

Cabinet with Ivory Overlay

Pulpit and Stall, by H.

Hems &

Seventeenth Century Chest of Drawers

N.W.R.)
Style,

VI. Joints and their Application

XXIII.

FACING

DESCRIPTION OF PLATE.

China Cabinet, by W. Willingale

Sons

p.

MODERN CABINETWORK,
FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS
{NOTE. Throughout

this work the letters "/" signify figure, and "p." page.
When the
When the same or
figure referred to is on the same page, no page number is given.
several figures on the same page are referred to close together, the page number is given

only with the first reference.

The figures of each illustration, where

of several, are separately numbered,

numbering is continued throughout
that page.
References to illustrations are made primarily to the pages on which the figures
occur, and. in no case is the numbering continued beyond each separate page, with the
exception of the photographic and double plates, which it will be found are numbered
continuously in Roman numerals.]

and where

there is

it consists

more than one block on each page

CHAPTER

the

I.

INTRODUCTION.
CABINETMAKING-ANCIENT AND MODERN.
Origin

of Cabinetmaking

New Division
It

is

Development of Furniture The Cabinetmaker, Old

Present-Day Requirements and Prospects.

and

of Labour

a long stretch from the fifteenth to the twentieth century, but

it

covers

a period that embraces the beginning and gradual rise of a craft which has

taken a place in the front rank of skilled trades. No one engaged in it, whether
apprentice or journeyman, salesman or designer, manager or master, can afford
to ignore its historical side, when at any time he may be called upon either to
design, make, or sell a piece of furniture which directly or

some

indirectly bears

bygone periods. Having to face this fact, we

may briefly refer to the development of cabinetmaking, and to changes at
different periods, before turning to the practical reasons for which this book
is written, viz., to explain the actual making of furniture of all kinds.
Cabinetmaking grew out of the needs and necessities of the times, as
ideas of household comfort and taste grew and improved.
Even the furniture
of the fifteenth century rude as it appears to us was an advance on that
of the thirteenth, when goods and chattels were preserved in " dug outs," or
chests roughly hewn out of the solid, and chairs were luxuries for kings
relation to the fashions of

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

As domestic

life improved, and housekeeping articles increased, it

"cabin" or enclose them, and the "joyner" who made
the "cabins" or "cupboards" gradually developed into the cabinetmaker.
How and when the separation took place it is impossible to say, as the transition was a slow one, but the earliest records we have of it are in the doings of

alone.

became necessary

to

Guild of Cofferers," a society of craftsmen in the fifteenth century who made

" coffers," or " hutches " as they were
named, and it is reasonable to suppose that they also made other articles of

"

a specialty of the construction of chests,

From the chest which for a long time served as cupboard,

and bed we can trace the development of much of our modern
furniture.
It improved in construction as time went on, and was panelled and
framed into legs. It was an easy and natural thing to lengthen the legs
and add another "cabin" or drawer as seen in the fifteenth century Gothic
cabinet illustrated in Plate II.
Shelves were fixed on the top, or another cupboard with a cornice supported by pillars was added, and the old chest became a
"buffet," or "court," and "cheese" cupboard, and from this it is not such a big
household

use.

seat, table,

jump

to the Yorkshire " dresser," or to the nineteenth century sideboard with

Again, the chest with back and arms became a

Out of it, too, grew the " almery,"
"armoire," "press," and the chest of drawers.
A fine example of a "press" is
illustrated on p. 3
it may be compared with a modern wardrobe.
Much has been said in praise of the old cabinetmakers, and deservedly so,
for we can learn a great deal from their work, but the conditions of labour and
living are changed, and the cabinetmaker of to-day is called upon to show a
finer skill and larger resource than were ever exhibited by the craftsmen of the
ancient guilds.
The demands upon his craftsmanship vary from making the
daintiest articles for the boudoir, to the massive furnishings of a Town Hall.
He must be equally ready to repair an umbrella stand or fit up a royal saloon, a
yacht, or an office
to tackle any job that comes along in any style or material,
or to cheerfully pack up his tools when there is none.
When so much praise
is given to the old cabinetmakers, equal recognition is due to their successors in

cupboards, drawers, and a back.

" settle,"

the forerunner of our settee and sofa.

modern

times.

The

introduction of fiats

the increase of luxurious hotels

the changes
house building which have brought the " fitment " and
ingle nook," have all tended to widen the scope of the cabinetmaker's
But his work is not confined to domestic furnishings only. Special

and improvements
the

"

craft.

furniture

made

in

museums,
and reading rooms. Photography has
created a demand for minute but skilled work
the increasing use of stationery,
and the manufacture of surgical and scientific apparatus, have brought about the
" case-maker," whilst the theatre, the garden,
and various sports all call for work

offices,

is

municipal

for ships, yachts, trains, schools, hospitals, sanatoria,

buildings,

libraries,

of a specialised character.

On the other hand, the decline of the apprenticeship system, and the increasing division of labour, tend to produce a specialist in one branch of the trade
only, as against an all-round

workman, and it is more difficult for a lad to get a

thorough training than in former years. Any decline in the standard of workmanship must end in disastrous results for all concerned, and beginners in

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Plate

Oak Furniture Designed

by C. Spooner

Satinwood Bedroom Furniture.

By

J.

and

S.

A.

J.

Henry

V.

Penty.

Ltd.

[To face page

3.

INTRODUCTION
who seriously wish to master their craft will not be satisfied at learning
one part of it only. As fashions change, there must ever be a demand for good
and resourceful cabinetmakers, and although it may be necessary to specialise

the trade

Seventeenth Century

for

Oak

Press, in the Strangers' Hall, Norwich.

means whereby a man may study various

hoped that this book may serve a useful purpose in

a time, there are numerous

sides of his craft.

It is

giving a practical insight into

some of

these branches.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

The

and cabinetmakers of to-day have to show the

and make furniture equal to if not surpassing
the antique specimens for which there is such an increasing craze.
It is only
by showing the public that well-designed and soundly-made furniture can
be produced at moderate prices that a demand for such will be established
and increased.
furniture designers

public that they can

In looking ahead,

design

it

is

safe to say that the future of the English furniture

and cabinetmaking trade generally must depend upon the quality of the work
put upon the market.
The combination of designer, maker, and machine
should produce a type which can hold its own against all comers, and appeal
to all buyers.
There is a growing desire for good furniture, and it behoves
the cabinetmaker to be ready for these changes, and well equip himself for
fresh demands upon his intelligence and labour.
Cabinetmaking is a craft which must always be closely allied to the
great mother art of architecture.
It embodies some of the finest traditions
of English craftsmanship, and whatever changes have taken place or may
come, these traditions must continue to hold the imagination of the workers
in it, whether individual or collective.
If these traditions are carried on, we
should then have English furniture what it has been in the past good to
make and pleasant to live with.

;;

CHAPTER

II.

TOOLSAPPLIANCES MATERIALS.

Planes Chisels Saws

&c. Their Construction, Cutting Action,
and Care of A Cabinetmaker's Kit and Tool Chest Special and Shop
Tools Workshop Appliances and Materials.

Hand

Tools

Files,

Selection,

PLANES.
Cabinetmakers do

have a good

" kit,"

tools as they did fifty years ago, but

and

know how

to

to take care of

it.

know-

thorough

ledge of tools

is

by

obtained

many

not require so

as necessary to

it is still

only
long

practice, but there are

mechanical

certain

principles underlying

construction

their

which
should
be
understood from the
beginning.

The most
minent
tools
its

is

of

all

pro-

the

the plane, in

many and

Section of Jack Plane.

various

shapes, sizes, and uses.

long usage and proof.

Its size, in any particular work, has been settled by

Although the machine has saved much laborious labour,
the hand plane must always remain
an indispensable tool. Fig. I above
shows a sectional side view of an
ordinary jack plane. The names of
its

parts are as follows

A, toat or

handle B, body or stock C, toe

F, escapement
E, heel
D, nose
G, mouth, on one side nearly vertical,
;

on the other at 45 deg. H, wedge

I, cutting iron
J, cap or back iron
;

End
Rays

of Plane, with
in

Direction.

Right

End
ing

of Plane, show-

Rays

Direction.

in

Wrong

K,

sole

L,

screw.

These names

apply more or less to planes of all

descriptions, varying only in those
where a screw is used in place of the wedge. Sometimes a button, M, of boxwood is sunk in near the nose to take the hammer marks.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

English wooden planes are made of beech, which should always be well
seasoned and straight grained. It should also be cut so that the sole is as
near as possible at right angles to the medullary rays, to allow for a uniform
shrinkage.
A stock which has been " cleft " from the raw timber is more likely
to remain true than a sawn one, but, as this is an expensive
method, only the best planes are made from cleft wood. In

buying a plane it is important to examine the end of the stock.

Fig. 2, p. 5, shows the rays in a jack plane as near right as
they can be, whilst
3 illustrates the result of irregular cutting
when shrinkage takes place, the diagram being somewhat exaggerated to show it. A stock which has been cut from the
outside portion of the tree is far better than one cut near the
heart, and the sole of a plane should not be on the heart side.
For finishing purposes iron planes are used.
Those of
English make are heavy and solid, with rosewood mountings,
the stock being made either of cast or malleable iron, or gunmetal.
The American planes are lighter, and flimsy in construction compared with those of English make, and are consequently cheaper, but they do not produce such a fine surface,
nor last as long. French planes are sometimes preferred, but
the choice of tools is a matter of individual experience.
The cutting action of such tools as planes, chisels, and
spokeshaves is similar to that of the wedge.
The bevelled
edge of the plane iron lifts or splits the fibres of the wood
and produces a shaving, the thickness of which is determined
by the depth of the iron's edge protruding beyond the sole of
In a like manner a paring chisel is forced under the
the plane.
A saw crushes the
fibres, and separates them as a wedge does.
f.

I.

Cutting and

Cap

Iron.

whilst a

fibres,

file,

rasp, or glass-paper reduces

powder by continuous

the surface of the

wood

to

friction.

shows a cutting iron with the "back" or

Action of Back Iron. Fig.
This back iron breaks the shaving as it passes into the
iron fixed.
2A,
mouth, as shown in
1

"cap"

f.

whilst

f.

illustrates the

21:

of the single iron

action

tearing

the

fibres.

The

edge of the back iron

set

close

to

the

of the

is

cutting

other,

the

distance varying slightly

in

different

the "jack

full

,',.

"
in.,

planes.

In

would be
and less in

it

\.

Cutting Action of Plane with and without liack Iron.

The cap iron should "bed" down quite flat to the

surface of the cutting iron, or shavings will be forced between them, and the

trying and iron planes.

mouth Income choked. The best plane irons are "gauged" to equal thickness
from end to end, and those not gauged get thinner towards the top, and as the

TOOLS APPLIANCES MATERIALS

away

iron wears

it

the cutting space in the

The

work being done.

fine

set in

is

"

the stock, and 45

There

mouth

is

widened, which prevents

is the angle at which

pitch " of a plane iron

deg.

is

known

as

the cabinet

"

pitch

"

in

however, other planes which have no back iron

at all, but their cutting irons are set at a much lower pitch, and their edges
are much closer to the mouth, whilst in the "bull nose," "chariot," and
"shoulder" planes, the bevels of the cutting irons are also reversed. Fig.
below shows the angle of the iron in a trying plane, and if 10 deg. are
1
taken off for the "basil" or grinding slope, the actual cutting angle is 35 deg.,
trying

plane.

which

is

made

less

are,

in

sharpening.

iron at an angle of 50 deg.,

which

Fig.
is

shows the

"

smoothing

plane

"

lessened as in the last named.

The

higher the pitch the nearer to a scraping action, as in the "toothing" plane,
with a single iron at an angle of 80 deg.
Fig. 3 is the " shoulder " plane, with

Angle of Shoulder Plane.

Angles of Trying and Smoothing Planes.

4.

Angle of Chariot Plane.

5.

Angle of Bull Nose

Plane.

6.

Angle of

Wood

Rebate

Plane.

an iron sloping at 20 deg., and as the basil is reversed the cutting angle is
from 25 deg. to 30 deg. Fig. 4, the "chariot," and f. 5, the "bull nose" planes,
whilst f. 6 shows the wooden "rebate" plane, with a slope of 50 deg., and the
The
basil set in the usual way, giving a cutting angle of about 40 deg.
provision
iron,
a
this
is
inclined
to
the
face
of
the
in
plane
escapement
which takes the place of a back iron, and breaks the shaving. In the iron
rebate plane the angle is lowered to 30 deg., and time and long usage have
proved that these angles are the best for the special work which the plane
has to do.

Following the above details it is only necessary to give a brief description

shown on next page.
Jointer Plane, f. 1, 26 to 30 in. long, 3 in. sole. Used to shoot long joints,
Also made in iron up to 24^ in.
dining-table tops, &c.
of the planes as they are

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Various Planes.

TOOLS APPLIANCES MATERIALS

Trying, or Trueing-up Plane, f. 2, usual size 22 by 3^ in. taking in 2i-in.

Used for all purposes in trueing-up and preparation work. Shorter ones
are also known as " panel planes," some of which have a removable slip, so that
the edge of the iron can be worked close in for sunk bevels on panels.
Jack Plane, f. 3, 17 by 2\ in., and smaller with 2|-in. iron, used in "jacking-up " stuff, or roughly preparing for the try plane.
Smoothing Plane, f. 4, usual size 8 by 3 in., with 2^-in. iron, but varying
in smaller sizes.
Its name implies its use, that of smoothing and finishing.
These planes are sometimes faced with steel, or have steel fronts as in f. 5.
Toothing Plane, f. 6, with a single iron, milled so that the edge resembles
saw teeth.
Used for toothing surfaces in preparation for veneering. Also
iron.

useful for cleaning

dirt

previous to scraping.

off,

Bismarck, or Roughing Plane,

and first rough surface of boards.

f.

7,

a single iron plane for taking off the

English make
extremely

Iron Panel, or Jointer Plane, f. 8, from 13A to 26J in.

with rosewood fittings. Can be used for joints or finishing.

An

useful plane for all types of work.

Iron Smoothing Plane,

These

f.

9,

with block

fitting,

and

f.

planes are fitted with a screw in place of the

iron

10,

with a handle.

wooden wedge

for

fixing the irons.

Iron Shoulder Plane,

1

to

in.

11,

f.

in. long, from

cabinetmakers for shooting
made with square or skew mouth, and

of malleable iron or gun-metal, 8

Always a handy plane

wide.

shoulders, short veneer joints, &c.

It is

to

single iron.

Iron Rebate Plane, f. 12, from 6 to 9 in. long, I to i| in. wide, and fitted
with one or two single irons.
Router, or "Old Woman's Tooth," f. 13, usually made of beech with a
mouth to take a plough iron. Used for routing out grooves across the grain
in wide stuff.
Bull Nose Plane, f. 14, iron or gun-metal, 1 to i| in. wide, for finishing
Single
off stopped rebates and angles where other planes could not be worked.
iron.

Mitre Plane,
shooting mitres.

f.

15, also

made

wood, with low pitch and single iron

in

for

Chariot Plane, f. 16. A small thumb plane with single iron and mouth
near the front as in the " bull nose," but the sides are not open. Used for
smoothing and finishing small work.
Compass Plane, f. 17. The sketch shows the American patent with a

thin steel sole which can be adjusted

by a screw

many

to

any

known

curve, either

convex or

"

Stanley " planes.

" Wooden Compass " are similar to smoothing planes, but have a curved sole,
and a brass or iron stop in the front to vary the curve.
The Plough, f. 11, p. 16, is an expensive tool, but with care will last a
lifetime.
It is really an adjustable plane for grooving, and should have a
concave.

This

is

one of the

patents

as

set of eight irons.

Wooden Rebate
and made with box

Plane,

f.

sole or slip.

10, p. 16,

with single iron from f to if

in.

wide,

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

io

Side Rebate Planes are made in wood or iron in right and left pairs,
and are used for trimming the sides of rebates and grooves.
Moulding Planes, such as "ogee," "ovolo," and hollows and rounds are
supplemental tools, some of which a cabinetmaker should possess. Hollows
and rounds are numbered in pairs, of which eighteen pairs make a full set.
Moulding planes go by widths. Other pairs are the "rule joint," "hook joint,"
" groove and tongue, or matching " planes.
Bead planes are sold singly.
The Side Fillister is a rebating plane with a movable fence on the sole
and a screw stop for depth, as well as a spur for cutting the wood in advance
A "Trenching" or Dado Grooving Plane is of a somewhat similar
of the iron.
make. Chamfer planes are also made in wood and iron. The "Stanley"
group of planes include patent combinations of the moulding, grooving, ploughing, and other tools, as well as the ordinary try, jack, and smoothing planes.

SAWS.
Hand, Back, and Frame Saws.

Hand Saw,

f.

In grade,

opposite.

known

as

"

Rip," " Half Rip," " Hand,"

and Panel," with straight or skew backs. Blades from 20 to 28 in. long, and
handles of apple or beech. A good blade will be thinner at the back than
The "Rip" has coarse teeth numbering four
in the front for easy working.
angle of teeth 90 and 30 deg.
to the inch, and getting wider nearer the handle
their
name indicates, they are used
as
the Half Rip is not quite so coarse, and,
"

for ripping

down

thick stuff in the direction of the grain.

The Hand Saw

proper is of more general use for cutting both ways blade about 26 in. and
The Panel Saw
teeth six to the inch, or the number may vary in all saws.
thinner
stuff.
The
cutting
for
is
used
and finer, and
is shorter, thinner,
which
a
wider
one
work
for
blade,
Compass Saw has a narrow tapering
could not do.
Bow, or Frame Saw, f. 2, for cutting curves and shaped work. A
thin blade 10, 12, or 14 in. long, and I in. wide, fixed between two uprights
and pulled taut by the string and bar. The blade can be turned to any angle
by twisting the handle at both ends. Foreign workmen use frame saws with
wide blades, and chairmakers also cut their curves with double handed frames
held

upright.

Fret and

narrower, and are usually

Marquetry Saw Frames are much

made of steel. The blades are very

and
and are

slighter
fine

sold in bundles of a dozen.

Keyhole, or

Pad Saw,

f.

3,

from the pad or socket which also serves

when not in use. The blade, which

as a handle into which the blade passes

tapers,

is

fixed

by two screws

Back Saws. These

at the nozzle of the pad.

used for finer work, and can only penetrate

depth owing to the ridge of iron, or brass, which
runs along the top of the blade and is known as the "back."
In section, this
" back " is split and tapers slightly from the top, thus forming a spring to
hold the blade and keep it flat and rigid. When the blade works loose it
the

wood

to

given

are

TOOLS APPLIANCES MATERIALS

Hand, Back and Frame Saws and Chisels.

ii

MODERN CABINETWORK, EURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

12

and can be
ment of the back by tapping

is

liable to buckle,

The

restiffened the blade.

by a
on the top edge

set right again

it

careful

and gradual adjust-

until its increased grip has

brass backs are superior to the iron, as they give

an additional weight to the saw. These saws vary in length from 8 to 14 in.
on blade. The longest is commonly known as the Tenon Saw, f. 4, p. 11, from
The teeth are usually
its use in cabinet work for cutting tenons and shoulders.
placed twelve to the inch and TV deep, but, as in all saws, this depends entirely
on the type of work to be done, but twelve to an inch is coarse enough for

The

general use.
f.

5,

is

name

used, as their

same

the

"

smaller

back

"

saws are better known as Dovetail Saws,

The

implies, in cutting the finer joints.

as in the tenon saw, but the blade

is

construction

thinner and not so deep,

and the teeth are cut about fifteen to the inch and more, as the fineness of the
work requires. For exceptionally small and fine work these saws are made
with 4 or 6 in. blades and a turned handle.
Saw Sets. To make a clear entry for a saw it is necessary that its teeth
should cut a passage wider than the thickness of the blade. This is done by
" setting " or bending the teeth alternately to the right and left with a tool
known as a " saw set," which is cut to take various thicknesses and has an
The setting is done by inserting
adjustable gauge to prevent an over set.
Care must be taken
the tooth in the cut and pressing the handle downwards.
that there is not too much set and that it is
equal on both sides, or the saw will run.
)|
Setting is also done with a hammer by

^Se3
I
lllWj^HlM
I
4.1.
-i
.u
v!*^
striking
the *teeth
on a vice or anvil made
y
^VJL_JL_l
for the purpose, but the gauge method is
the safest.
In sharpening a saw, the edges
A Saw Set.

ill

%llllll!lii

4.

-i

of the teeth are slightly bevelled alternately

opposite directions, and the set should be put

in

Saws
to

work loose
tighten them up.
often

Chisels.

As

its

chisel,

name
f.

7,

are usually

all

denotes,

on after the sharpening.

and a forked turnscrew, f. 7, p. 14, is used

ordinary purposes a Firmer Chisel, f. 6, p. 11, is used.

shorter, thicker, and so firmer than the long paring

it is

and which generally has a bevelled edge. Handles for chisels

of ash, hornbeam, beech, or box, and are round or octagonal.
Chisels
better for the grip, and is least likely to roll off the bench.
sets of twelve from y ^ to 2 in. wide, but can be bought in half sets

made

The latter is
made in

are

For

at the handle,

or singly, with or without handles.

Mortise Chisels, f. 8, with beech handle. A thick leather washer should

be inserted at the joint where the tang enters the wood to prevent splitting.
Gauges. Fig. 9 is a Marking Gauge, made of beech, with box screw
or wedge, f. 10, and a steel pin for the marker.

The Cutting Gauge,

a brass

wedge and
rounded

steel

f.

11,

is

of the same shape and wood, but with

This cutter is bevelled with a

blade for the cutter.

which

always placed inside near the stock, to ensure

is in a forward direction, there would
be a tendency for the cutter to run inwards if the bevel were on the outside,
and so spoil or injure the work in hand. Mortise Gauge,
This
12, p. II.

slightly

a clean cut.

As

face,

is

the pressure on the gauge

f.

TOOLS APPLIANCES MATERIALS

13

gauge has double markers, and is more elaborately made. The inside point is
fixed to a brass bar which is grooved into the stem, and is flush with its surface.
At the end of the stem a thumb-screw is attached to the bar which enables the
point to be adjusted to any width required, after the screw in the stock has been
These gauges are usually made of rosewood or ebony, but the cheaper
loosened.
ones have no thumb-screw attachment. Panel Gauge, f. i, with a long stem and
wide fence, which has a rebate on the inside under edge, and a Tee Gauge, f. 2,
which has a lengthened fence to clear

any

projections,

and can be

fitted

with a long point or

pencil for gauging

ingrooves orpanels

below the working

1.

These two
gauges can be
surface.

bought, but they are mostly

made by

Panel Gauge.

the workman, and are best in hardwood.

BORING TOOLS.
The

&

sometimes called a "stock," is used for boring

to take any " bit."
The most serviceSome are fitted with a
able brace is of American pattern and English make.
ratchet for reverse action, by which a hole can be bored near the floor or in a
The best in quality
position where it is not possible to take the whole sweep.
have ball bearings, and are nickel-plated. The width of sweep varies from 6,
8, and 10 in., the 6 in. being the one
Brace,

purposes, and

is

14

f.

15, p. 14,

made with expanding jaws

generally used for ordinary work.

Bits are made with square and

tapering shanks to fit the jaws of a

brace, whilst the boring points are
of

many and

1, p.

sizes

14, is

up

Pin Bit;

differing shapes.

Fig.

made

in all

a Centre Bit,

to 2
f.

in.

the Nose Bit

Fig.

all

2,

Spoon

or

and f. 4,
of which are used

Shell

3,

Bit,

boring across the grain. Fig. 5,

the Gimlet or Swiss Bit for quick
boring in soft woods. Fig. 6, Screwdriver, or Turnscr^ew Bit, used in a brace
and f. 7 is the Split Turnscrew for tightening up screws
for driving screws home
Fig. 8, the Twist or Jenning's Bit, a quick, clean borer both
in saw handles.
2.

for

Tee Gauge.

ways of the grain. Those with short twists are known as Dowel Bits. Fig. 9
is the Rose Countersink for enlarging the splay in a hole to take the head of
can be used for metal or wood.
For very
for wood.
Countersink
Fie. 10, one for iron, and f. 11, the Snail
to
boring
up
cutters
expanding
5 in. dialarge holes, there are patent bits with
a screw.

Though

specially

made

for brass,

it

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Brack and

Bits.

TOOLS APPLIANCES MATERIALS

meter, see

shown

f.

12 opposite.

15

patent cylindrical centre bit with four cutters

is

width.

bores clean, and can be obtained from up to if in. in

13;
Rimers are bits for enlarging holes, and are square or half round in

section,

and tapering

in

it

f.

to a point.

whilst the others are solid,

Archimedean

The

Shell

and are used

Rimer

is

half round but hollow,

Drills, with

chiefly for metal.

Stock

do not

drift in

Drills are usually preferred for boring in hard woods, as they

boring.

They

an

stock, are often used for small holes in very fine work.

are fixed in an ordinary brace, and can be obtained in the usual

sizes.
A Brace Bit Holder is a handy substitute for the brace when it cannot
be used. It is a box or hardwood handle similar to that on a gimlet, with a
square tapering hole to take the shank of the bit, and is very useful for riming.
Bradawls and Gimlets are hand-boring tools which need no illustration. They
are really bits fixed in a handle, and are useful where the brace is not necessary

or where a hole

is

required to start a

nail.

Marking Awl

is

a thin steel

marking" out. It is often

combined with a Marking Knife at the other end, and both are used for the
same purpose, the knife chiefly for soft, and the marker for hard woods.
A Sliding Bevel, 4, p. 16, and a 6-in. Square, 8 & 9, are indispensable
tools, and are made of rosewood or ebony, with a steel blade and a brass plate
on the inside edge. Larger squares for carcase work can be bought, but are
This also applies to
usually made in the workshop, and are best in mahogany.
Set Squares for testing inside angles.
Spokeshaves are made of wood, box, or beech, f. 6, p. 16, and iron, f. 7.
They are a form of plane with a single blade, and a cutting angle of 10 deg.
pointer fixed in a handle, and

is

used for setting or

"

f.

f.

The

face of the blade

is

rounded on
sprung into the

slightly concave, whilst the stock can be

the face to suit any curve.

In

wooden shaves the blade

is

The
stock and held by the two ends or tangs, which enter a tapering hole.
American iron shaves have a small iron similar to a plane which is held in place
by a thumb-screw. The sizes of spokeshaves go according to length of blade,
1 \ to 4 in., and it is important to remember that the burr is not rubbed

from

off the face of the blade in sharpening.

Screwdrivers are made in various sizes and shapes, the " London " pattern
having a broad flat blade and flat handle, and those known as " cabinet " drivers
a round blade and oval handle. Thumb drivers 1 to 2 in. on the blade are
extremely handy where a longer blade cannot be used.
Oilstones are of various quality and manufacture. The " Washita " is a
good one for all-round use, and the " Turkey " for a keen finished edge.
" Charnley Forest " is a slow cutter, but
is also
good for finishing, and
" Arkansas " is a first-class satisfactory stone.
All the above are natural
stones, whilst the one known as "India Oilstone" is a composition, light
brown in colour, and has the advantage of not being so liable to break if
knocked down. It is also a fast cutter, and does not wear down as much as
Slip stones for gouges can be obtained in all the above qualities.
the others.
Oilstones should be cased in wood, set in plaster of Paris, and covered with
a lid. They need to be frequently rubbed down, either on a flat stone with
sand, or on a sheet of emery cloth.
Sweet oil with a little paraffin is the best
for sharpening purposes.

In

choosing an oilstone

it

is

as well to

remember

16

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Bench and Miscellaneous Tools.

TOOLS APPLIANCES MATERIALS

that there are

good and bad

qualities in all kinds, but the cutting

stone can be tested by rubbing the

it

17

thumb

nail

on

it,

and

if it

power of a

grips the nail

can safely be chosen as a fast cutter.

Files are made in various sections, as

fiat, half round, round (known as

and three-cornered (known as saw files), all cut for wood or
metal.
The cuts are known as " single " and " double " for saw files, " bastard "
for wood, and " smooth " for metal.
Flat files are made with one " safe " or
smooth edge, as those for making keys, known as " warding" files.

rat tail), square,

Rasps

are

made

in

similar sections to

the surface, they are chipped

all

over

in

files,

such a

but instead of cuts across

way

as to raise coarse cutting

and rasps.
Many Mitre Cutting Tools are made in the shop, such as the
the Mitre Box, for cornice mouldings
the
Mitre Block, for small work
Mitre Shooting Board, a combination with the ordinary shooting board
the improved Mitre Shooting
**
=
=^^h
t__
Block, with wood or iron
^
~ZI^IJ^
J^ ^
and the
screw, see sketch
_
^lll uy Sl
^twm UiHuu " wr^rfri
'
"Donkey's Ear," for shooting V^-7>^k
y5I1$l_

points.

curved

Rifflers are

files

^^W

'

j|i^
l

"'

^
- - -~- - "^.3\y
^j^^^-^l- "" ^
mouldings
the Mitre
Template, in wood or metal,
Improved Mitre Shooting Block.
all of which are illustrated in
the chapter on " Workshop Practice."
Mitre Cramps are patent tools used by
picture frame makers.
Cramps are usually supplied by the shop, and are made both in wood
and iron, the best make having a bar with a T section, to which a lengthening
bar can be attached for a long job. Small G -shaped cramps or Thumb-Screws
are always useful.
Hand-Screws are generally found by the shop, but most cabinetmakers
The Hand-Screw,
like to have a few of their own, especially small ones.
2 opposite, with two screws made of beech, which if black leaded will work
f.
sweeter, is bought in sizes from 4 to 18 in. measured along the chop, and
The Hand-Screw, f. 3 opposite, with single screw,
sold at one penny per inch.
has a more direct pressure, but cannot be used in as many ways as p. 2.
The strongest make has a bolt right through to strengthen the joints, and
the screws work sweeter if black leaded. Very small hand-screws are useful
for fixing fine mouldings, but a good substitute for them is the wire " dog
or split chair spring, and the patent spring clothes' peg is very handy for

right

similar purposes.

The Bench, shown

from 4 to 8

ft.,

is

An

fitted

in

f.

opposite, with beech or

with vice and

tail

screws

in

birch top, in sizes

wood

or iron accord-

6 in., which with iron screws

It is
will cost seventy-five shillings, and with wood screws sixty shillings.
fitted with drawer, trough, and two iron stops, which with the tail screw make
A hole can be
a convenient cramp for holding stuff and glueing up.
To make the bench
bored through the top to take an iron Holdfast.
more useful, holes can be bored down the leg, into which a pin can be

ing to price.

all-round

useful size

is

ft.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

i8

when being worked in

A grease box can be

placed at convenient heights for supporting long stuff

the vice, or the bottoms can be boarded in as a shelf.

For home use the

fixed on the end, as well as a stop for cutting against.
cabinetmaker will find the English-made bench with double wood screw,
4 ft. 6 in. long, at twenty-one shillings, both serviceable and cheap, whilst the
patent iron grip vices can be fixed to any bench.
There are many tools, such as the hammer, mallet, pincers, &c, which need
no special description, but they are named in the following list, which is given
The sizes are suggested, with their
as a specimen "kit" for a cabinetmaker.
The figures have been supplied by Messrs Tyzack & Sons,
cost price.
Old Street, E.G., but they are subject to fluctuation.

Kit of Tools.

Trying plane, 22 in., gauged iron

Jack plane, 17 in., gauged iron

Smoothing plane, gauged iron

Bismarck (roughing), single iron
Toothing plane

...

Circular (compass) plane, adjustable, Stanley

Rebate plane, 1 in., skew mouth
Side rebate planes, one pair Iron shoulder plane, ij in., malleable
Iron rebate plane, in., malleable
Iron panel plane, 12^ in., English make
Iron smoother plane, English make Iron bull nose plane, i|- in. Chariot plane, i\ in. Hollows and rounds, half a set, nine pairs
Bead planes, \ and | in.

Firmer

chisels, eight,

1
y ^ up to

in.

Bevelled edge paring chisels, -{ in., i in., and f in.

Mortise chisels, \ in.,
in., in.
Squares, 6 in., 12 in. (20 in. wood, for carcase work,
Set mitre, 10 in.
-J

Sliding bevel, 9 in.

Striking knife and marking awl

Hammers, two

home made)

....
-

Pincers and cutting nippers Oilstone (India), slips, and can

Screwdrivers (two), and one "thumb" driver
Mallet, 5-in.

head

Hand

saw, 26 or 28 in.
Panel saw, 24 in.
Tenon saw, 14 in., brass back
Dovetail saw, 10 in.
Bow saw, 12 in.
Pad, or keyhole saw -

Small

-----...

steel

frame saw

Rule, 2 or 3 ft., four fold

Scraper, 5 by 3 in. and sharpener
(

'ml.

rubber

Files, various,

-.-...
-

wood and metal

Rasps, various

Mortise gauge, with

set

screw

TOOLS APPLIANCES MATERIALS

0

Cutting gauge

Marking gauge
Panel gauge, home made
Ratchet brace, English made
Twist bits, I in., in., in., h in., " Jenning's dowel
in., i in.,
in., \ in.
Spoon bits,

Centre bits (black), i\ in., 1 in.,

Countersinks (rose), \ in., h in.
Turnscrew and forked turnscrew
Dowel rounder

Bench

19

holdfast

Compasses, one pair

J-

in.,

in.,

in.

bits

....

Thumb-screws (six), G pattern

Dowel plate, four holes

Mitre shooting block, with iron screw

Mitre cut, home made
Mitre template, brass
Firmer gouges, \ in., h in., f in.
Scribing gouges, \ in., | in. Carving gouges, straight, \ in., in., ^
Bradawls, six assorted

...
-----in.

Gimlets, three assorted

Veneering hammer (home made)

String gauge (home made) -

Scratch stock (home made) Punches (two)

Small glue-pot
Router (old woman's tooth)
Plough with irons
Tongueing and grooving planes, one pair
Bolting iron for shooting locks
Spokeshave, wood -

"

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

ment would be

to

make

case and

fit

it

with drawers, but in the former

suggestion the trays can be divided up to take the tools as required. There
are many " extras " which a cabinetmaker soon collects, such as bench brush,
set squares, grease box, tape and sponge, &c, which take up room and need
their proper places,

and

to provide

them

is

a task which becomes a pleasure to

a craftsman interested in his tools.

heating glue and providing a "hot plate" vary according to

the size of the shop. The enclosed stove for coal, with chimney pipe attached,
Gas and
is effective for all small purposes, and serves as a good warming table.

Stoves

oil

for

stoves are also

made both

for glue

and hot

plates,

but steam tables and

stoves are in general use in larger shops, and have the advantage of always
Patent stoves are now made,
being ready and also of warming the shop.
either

or

fixed

portable, to

which

can be attached either gas or electric

heating power. Veneer presses are
necessary in shops where any large
veneers are

TRAY

li
%,

TRAY

1
v

i.

laid,

and where steam

is

used there is an iron press with

heater underneath. The other forms
of presses are given in the chapter
on Veneering.
Glue is made from hides,
intestines, and hoofs of animals,

SLIDINa PANEV.

Section of Tool Chest.

and the skins and refuse of fishes.

These substances are boiled and
filtered into cooling troughs, where
they thicken to a jelly in suitable
blocks from which the cakes are
These cakes are then stamped,
cut.
scored, and hung out to dry, during

which time they lose about half their

They are then ready for the

bulk.
2.

Plan of Tool Chest.

market.

and
should

break

brittle

general purposes, the

glue

is

and

clean.

In

qualities,

is

glue should be clear

Scotch

the

commoner kind being known

a specially good quality, and

Good

transparent,

as

sold in thinner

Town

not
is

muddy, and
the

glue.

best

for

Salisbury

and smaller cakes than

glue has the advantage of being ready for use, not

needing to be made hot, but it takes longer to dry. Russian glue is made
up in small white cakes and what is known as marine or waterproof glue is

Liquid

the Scotch.

fish

extremely doubtful if any glue can be made quite

is put into cold water to soak until it becomes
it is then boiled off and strained into a pan from which, when
a thick jelly
cold, it can be cut and put into the pots and heated off for the workshop.
If
left too long in the pan it will decompose and become unfit for use.
In an
ordinary way the cake is broken up between a piece of sacking into small
pieces, put into the pot until three parts full, and then well covered with water.
run into boxes, but

it

is

In large shops glue

waterproof.

TOOLS APPLIANCES MATERIALS

21

The

boiling off should be gradual.

white froth will appear on the top, which
the lime in the glue, and should be skimmed off.
Care should be taken that
the water in the outside pot does not boil away or the glue will burn and lose
its quality, and that pots are free from dirt and grease.
On no account should
is

glue be used which

if

is

not thoroughly boiled

off,

and

it

is

better to strain

it,

possible, before a final heating.

Nails, screws,

and glass-paper are described

in

Chapter V.

THE CARE OF TOOLS.

With a

little care, tools will work the sweeter and last the longer.
planes are bought they should be well soaked with linseed oil by
up the mouth with a wedge of soft wood and then

new

When
filling

pouring the oil into the escapement. The oil will soak
through the pores and help to set the wood, but it
must not be overdone. After the week's work, planes
should be rubbed over with the oil rag. A sheath for
the saws just a kerf in the edge of a bit of f-in. stuff
will save the teeth.
Bits are best kept in a baize bag,
with a division for each one, and iron planes are safer if
treated in the same way, or kept in wood cases with a
piece of baize at the bottom.
Chisels in a drawer should
lie alternate ways, and it is economical never to put
them away blunt. Oilstones should be kept covered,
Remouthing a Plane.
and too much oil left on tends to harden the stone.
When planes wear down they need remouthing. The
diagram shows how this may be done, and if a bit of good dry beech is
not available, rosewood or box is the best to use. New planes sometimes
choke and the mouth may need filing back, or the edge of the back iron
" Chatter " in a plane is also due to
is too thick, or does not bed well.
the irons not bedding properly.
The soles of wood planes wear irregularly
and need shooting with an iron one, and care must be taken to get the
sole true in the length.
If tools are kept in good order they save labour

and make work

easier.

CHAPTER

III.

DRAWING GEOMETRY PERSPECTIVE-DESIGN

TECHNICAL TERMS.
Value of Drawing

How

to

begin

Instruments How

to

make and

use

them

Geometry Plane and Solid necessity and use in Practical Work

Scales Figures Projection Perspective Technical and Workshop Terms.
Materials

A KNOWLEDGE

Its

of drawing

to a cabinetmaker.

is

to a good craftsman and especially

work he must be able to read a scale or

essential

In ordinary

drawing and interpret a plan or a section. A foreman or "setter

must be capable of translating one from the other, and know enough
of detail and construction to draw them in a practical and legible manner.
To a young beginner the best thing to do is to attend an evening class and
accept the course of work advised by the instructor, and also to practise at
home. The latter is possible to all, and a good beginning is to measure up
a table or chest of drawers and draw it to a convenient scale in front and end
elevation, plan and section.
Details such as mouldfull-size

out

"

Braced Drawing Board.

ings, carving, or turning, should be carefully studied

and drawn full size if possible. By close attention
and frequent practice the difficulties of first attempts
should be overcome, and the necessity for continued
effort in the early years of their career cannot be
too strongly urged upon all who wish to excel in the
various branches of their craft.
This chapter will
deal with elementary principles and practical methods
applied to drawing for cabinetmakers in a general

way.

INSTRUMENTS.
Board

one made of

The most serviceable Drawing-

braced at the back with mahogany, which is slot

screwed to allow for shrinkage (see sketch). For all-round purposes an imperial
size, 30 by 22 in., is the most useful, but the board should be made a little larger.
It can be bought for 5s., or, if made, there must be a careful selection of first
quality pine, dry and free from shakes.
To secure the least amount of warpage,
cut the n-in. boards into two or three strips and rejoint them after reversing
the edges. Then plane them carefully flat and square, gauge to thickness, and
finish the face side with glass-paper, rubbing both ways.
The pieces to brace
the back should be of i-in. stuff about 31 in. wide, and straight grained with
brass slots inserted for the screws in the position shown.
is

pine, well

DRAWING GEOMETRY PERSPECTIVE,

To

ETC.

23

is necessary, and one that

Those sold are usually made of
pearwood, and cost about 2s. 6d., whilst the more expensive ones are of
mahogany with an ebony edge. If made,
mahogany is the best wood to use, and
the stuff must be carefully selected.
The

Tee Square.

tapers, as in

f.

below,

suit the

is

board a

30-in. blade

the best to have.

thickness of the blade should not be less

than I in., and the taper from 4 to 2 in.

with a slight bevel on the top of the
straightedge.
The headpiece for a 30-in.
blade should be 12 in. long, 2 in. wide,
and J in. thick, with a small bevel on
the

inside

blade

is

Tee and Set Squares.

top edge, to clear any slight

abrasion on the corner of the board.

fixed to the headpiece with a

two hardwood dowels give an added

up by a hole bored in the blade.
Set Squares. These are made

The
little

thin glue

security.

and brass screws, whilst

The square

is

best kept

hung

pearwood, mahogany, vulcanite, or

sizes are 6 in. for 45 degs. and
8 in. for 60 degs.
The solid ones, f. 3, p. 24, can be bought from 6d. upwards,
but these are liable to warp. A better form is shown above, keyed at the
joints and edged with ebony or pearwood.
Instruments are sold separately or in complete sets. A small set can be
bought from 15s., but a start can be made with the following single pieces:
A pencil compass with an adjustable pen, a pair of dividers, an upright ruling
pen, and a metal or boxwood protractor used for obtaining angles.
Very soft, BB medium, B these are best
Pencils are graded as follows
F, a grade harder;
for freehand drawing; HB, a little harder for general use
is suitable for very
and H, hard enough for geometrical drawing; whilst
fine lines.
For line work a pencil should be sharpened to a chisel point,
but for freehand or sketching a round one is best.
Paper. Imperial cartridge 30 by 22 in. is a useful quality and size
for ordinary purposes, but for pen and more finished work Whatman's hot
For working drawings use good lining paper or conpressed sheets are used.
It must be noted that there is
tinuous roll cartridge in varying qualities.
A moderately soft rubber should
a face side to paper, i.e., the smoothest.
be used for cleaning out. To fix the paper on the board insert a pin at
one of the top corners, then pass the hand over the surface diagonally to
the opposite corner and fix another pin, repeating the process across the other
diagonal.
The paper should be fixed clear of the left hand and bottom edges
For water-colour and special work the paper is stretched. This
of the board.
is done by well damping it in clean water and then pasting the edges to the
board.
In drying, the paper will become taut and ready for use.
The Tee Square is held by the left hand, and the headpiece must be
kept tight up to the board. Fig. above shows the tee and set squares in position.
With practice it will be quite easy to slide the set square along whilst the
A scale rule is useful, and can be
tee square is held rigid and straight.
gelatine, the latter being transparent.

in

Handy

HH

MODFRN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

24

bought from a

upwards, or a packet of single cardboard scales are

shilling

obtainable.

For "inking

in,"

the liquid Indian ink as sold in 6d. and

bottles

is.

is

the

This process requires practice and care.

the drawing pen, dip an ordinary pen into the

best to use.

To

fill

and insert the nib into the opening, drawing it

back carefully against the edge, or a fine brush can be
used in the same way. The screw will tighten or loosen
the point according to the thickness of the line required,
and the pen should be tried
on an odd piece of paper
ink,

to

E)
i.

Method

of Striking a

Perpendicular Line.

use

the

commencing

Before

first.

pen,

see

that

there are no loose ink spots

on the outside, then hold

it

upright against the tee or

set square edge,

Curved

right.

10

and carefully draw it from left to

lines should be drawn first, and

2.

Method
"

a
of Striking a

Square" Line.

straight ones carried

into

them

where they cannot be done with

a compass, the ordinary French curves are used.

Some

tee squares

are bevelled

edge to prevent a blot

if

on the under

the ink happens to run,

is not necessary if the pen is filled and

used properly. All the diagrams in this book
were drawn in the manner described above, and
with a square edge.
The pen should be care-

but this

Drawing

3.

fully

Parallel Lines

wiped when done with.

In pencil drawings, the lines should be put

with Set Squares.

in lightly at first, and thickened when all details

working drawings a blue pencil is used for the sections,
and red for the plans, or the section is outlined with a thin wash of colour.
Sections are also shown by

For

are drawn.

crossed

straight
"

full-size

lines,

called

hatchings," and the outline of

the moulding in a thick

seen

in

line,

as

the sections of mould-

ings throughout the book. Separate portions in the construction

are distinguished
in

by hatching

opposite directions.
It

is

sometimes necessary

to " fix " or " set

"

a charcoal or

pencil drawing to prevent its

being rubbed out, and to make
liquid
spirit.

is

Metal or Horn Protractor.

This is done with a

it partially permanent.
which is really a solution of shellac and methylated
sprinkled on to the drawing through a blow-pipe.

called " fixative,"

It

4.

DRAWING GEOMETRY PERSPECTIVE,

ETC.

25

Tracing is done through a specially prepared thin paper, which is nearly

and can be bought from a penny a sheet upwards, according to
quality.
It is excellent practice for a young beginner as an aid to neat and
quick work. The tracing paper must
be carefully stretched and pinned over
the drawing, and the tracing commenced from the top downwards. Upright lines should be drawn first, and

transparent,

an F pencil is the best grade for ordinary work. A drawing can be transferred to another sheet by placing it
flat on to the paper, and rubbing all
over the back of it with a pencil.
Patterns of fretwork,

flat

1.

carving, or

Dividing a Circle.

pierced work, such as chair backs, &c,

are " rubbed " off by placing the paper on the pattern

with black heel-ball.

The

holes will be

left

white,

and rubbing all over it

and the design shown where

the heel-ball has touched the wood.

To

colour or " wash/' in a drawing of any size, a

It must
large camel-hair brush called a " mop " is used.
be kept fairly full of wash and passed quickly over the
drawing, commencing at the top and working down-

wards from and to left and right alternately. To secure

flat even tone and surface, the brush must not be
passed over twice until the first coat is quite dry. For
detail work a hair brush is used, and in all instances the
brushes should be well washed and cleaned, and left in
a

B
2.

Method

of Striking

Mitres and

shape when put away.

Half

Suitable colours for woods are as follows, but, of

course, they must vary according to the wood and the

Mitres.

Rosewood, vandyke brown and rose madder with little yellow

Oak, vandyke brown and little yellow ochre Mahogany, vandyke brown, lake

tints required

and yellow ochre, with a little burnt sienna Satinwood, gamboge, yellow ochre,
Walnut, vandyke brown,
brown
little vandyke
Prussian blue, and a little crimson lake; Pine, yellow
and a little brown.
;

GEOMETRY. It

is only intended to give a few

elementary examples which can be applied to practical
and workshop needs. These may be supplemented by
To
reference to a good text-book on the subject.
and
set
square
are
square
begin with lines. The tee
used in drawing horizontal and vertical lines respectively, but it might happen that a vertical line had to
be drawn where these instruments were not available.

3.

Striking an Equilateral

Triangle.

In this case the methods shown in f. 1 opposite can be adopted, and failing
From point A strike
compass,
a piece of string and a bradawl will do it.
a
with same radius strike off from B the points
a semicircle, cutting line in R
;

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

26

from C and D strike arcs at E. From A draw a line through the

This will be the vertical or square line. As a second
handy method, f. 2, p. 24, suppose it was desired to cross cut a board at right
angles without the aid of a square.
From the point A mark off 10 in. along
take six of the
the edge of the board

C and D

intersection of the arcs.

inches and

mark from A the

then take the length of 10

number
first

one

draw a
Dividing a Line

1.

method

cally this

other ways,

Equal Parts.

in

known

is

arc at B

in.,

and from

mark another arc, cutting the

Through the intersection

at B.

and the board

line to point A,

can be cut off square.

done with a two-foot

as a scale of equal parts,

and

All this can be

Geometri-

rule.

can be used in

it

to test the angle of the room.

e.g.,

Parallel lines

other

than horizontal

are

drawn with the two

set squares.

2.

Holding one

Method

of Constructing

firmly, the other

any Scale of Feet and Inches.

moved up

is

or

down, and

lines

drawn

as

shown

Lines at any angle are usually drawn with the aid of a protractor,
a small rectangular instrument made of boxwood, or in metal, or horn, as a
in

f.

3, p.

24.

semicircle,

upon which

degrees contained

From

is

marked the number of

half a circle, of which there

in

mark

the metal or horn protractor.

off from
4 shows
Apart from the use

of the protractor,

remember

are 180.
.1

this

it is

possible to

given spot a line at any angle.

radius of a

it is

circle

useful to

steps round

its

Fig.

that the

circumference

exactly six times, so that a circle or semicircle can

be easily divided up into twelve or six equal parts,

Method

of

Pilasters

Dividing
in

Equal

Fluted
Pro-

portions.
This would be handy in setting
<mt tops for veneering. As the angle BAG isoxidegs.,
or a right angle, D would be a line at 60 degs., and C one at 30 degs.
A
mitre, or line at 45 degs., usually the pitch of a cornice, is obtained by
bisecting or halving a right angle, as in f. 2, p. 25.
Draw the angle ABC, strike
an arc from B, cutting both lines at A and c. With the same radius strike two

as in

f.

1,

p.

25.

DRAWING GEOMETRY PERSPECTIVE,

more

arcs from

A and
which

c,

ETC.

Through D draw

cutting each other in D.

27

a line into

be the mitre line. The " half mitre " is obtained by

bisecting the lower portion.
Again, a line at 60 degs. can be easily obtained
by the following method
Supposing that on a given line at point A,
f. 3, p. 25, the line is required, from A
with any radius describe an arc cutting the line at B, from B strike a

the corner at

B,

will

^C

similar arc, cutting the other in C, a

through c to A

line

quired at 60 degs.

1.

Method

If

is the one rec also be joined

of Constructing a Polygon

2.

Method of Constructing a Polygon

on a Given Side.

in

a Given Circle.

we get an equilateral or equal-sided triangle, or the sixth part of a hexagon.

Problems which can be turned to practical account are those relating to
proportion and the equal division of lines, by which scales are constructed.
As a first example, take a line
A B, 3 in. long, f. 1, p. 26, which
has to be divided into seven
equal parts.
From A draw a
line A C, at any angle, above or
below, 30 degs. being the most

to B

convenient.

3.

To

Strike an

scale of feet

made.

Octagon

a Square.

in

and inches

Draw

represent

ft.,

From A

to

equal

feet

off

parts

any proportion.

a line of indefinite length,

and

cut

along A c,
join number 7 to B, and from
each of the other points draw
parallel lines to it until they
cut the line A B. a B will then
This is
be equally divided.
easily applied to constructing a
seven

and inches are

To Obtain
of a Circle.

shows how such a

Suppose the scale is

Fig. 2
B.

to be shown.

Approxi-

mate Circumference

From A mark

scale

is

2 in. to

off lengths

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

28

a line at any angle from A as before, and mark off twelve equal
From the twelfth draw a line to C, and complete the parallel
divisions on it.
A C will then be divided into twelve parts
lines as in the previous diagram.
divisions
along the line A B as you require
2-in.
many
for the inches, add as
of 2

in.

Draw

with numbers as shown, and the scale is complete. The inches must be
numbered from right to left, an advantage easily seen if a length of i ft. 3 in.
A double line gives a breadth to the
is wanted and taken off with the dividers.
feet,

scale,

and enables the inches to be made plainer by alternate shading.

1.

Trammel.

This can also be applied in many ways to bench work. Suppose a frieze
instead of wasting time
or gallery has to be divided intc a given number of parts
scale,
treat it as a line A B
with compass or rule, reduce the rail to a convenient
smaller
or larger pilaster
and divide it as described above. Or again, when a
it
can be quickly
has to be fluted, reeded, or moulded in proportion to another,
the angle line
pilaster
as
set out by this method, see f. 3, p. 26, treating the given
developfurther
A C in f. 1, and the one to be divided equally to it as A B. A
;

ment of

this principle applied to

mouldings

is

Coming

seen in Chapter X.

now to the construction of the

figures known as polygons, or
many-sided figures, the pentahexagon,
gon has five sides
;

heptagon, seven octagon,

six
and
nonagon, nine
eight
These are
decagon, ten, &c.
frequently occurring in cabinet
;

work. Fig. 1, p. 27, shows a

general method of constructing
Section of Bar and Head
Side View of
of a Trammel.
2, p. 28.
any polygon when the length of
the side is given. Let A B be
the given side of a heptagon.
At A erect a perpendicular, and with A B as
radius strike an arc, cutting it in C.
Divide this arc into seven equal parts,
numbering from C. From A draw a line through number 2. Bisect A B, and
draw a perpendicular, cutting the line at D, which is the centre of a circle, with
DA as radius, in which the sides of the heptagon can be divided off and drawn.
Fig. 2 illustrates the method of constructing any regular polygon within a
given circle, a problem sometimes occurring in veneered work, and in setting
out columns, &c.
Strike the circle and the diameter A B.
Divide into the same
f.

DRAWING GEOMETRY PERSPECTIVE,

number of

parts as sides in the polygon, say

and radius A B, describe arcs meeting

division, draw a line cutting the
The line A D is one
circle at D.
The two
side of the pentagon.
methods described above apply
to the making of any of the

in C.

ETC.

29

and with A and B as centres,

C, and through the second

five,

From

regular polygons, but there are

quick and ready ways for drawing a hexagon or an octagon,

forms which are often used for
table tops,

the sides of a

e.g.,

hexagon are at an angle of 60

degs., and can be quickly drawn
1. Method of Striking an Ellipse with a Straightedge.
with the set square, and in a like
manner the octagon, with an
But suppose a square table has to be converted into an
angle of 45 degs.
it can be set out
with a pencil and rule, as in

octagonal one,

f.

3, p.

27.

Draw

the diagonals,

and from each corner mark off

a distance equal to half the diagonal, as at

peat this

all

A B and CD.

points for the octagon.

are

many

Re-

round, and join the

other

those described

*'-

~"~

--

^/

There

methods, but
are

the

most

practicable in their application

to cabinet work.
It

is

often

necessary

to

measure the circumference of a

circle or the length of a curve and to reduce

it

to a straight or " stretch " out

The

line for setting out purposes.

string

does not always serve, but the circumference of a circle is approximately 3! times
its

diameter.

quick

way

circle

and

The diagram

of obtaining
its

f.

this.

diameter, which

into seven equal parts

4 shows a

Draw
is

the

divided

three times the

diameter and one part equals (approximately) the circumference. An approximate length of any curve or serpentine
line can be obtained by drawing a
straight line on a piece of tracing paper,

and holding the

line

on the curve as near as

possible, tick off lengths at short

intervals whilst turning the straight line in the direction

kind of curve can be quickly measured in this way.

of the curve.

Any

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

The

"

of

construction

ovals

"

or,

strictly

speaking, ellipses,

is

very

geometry for a cabinetmaker. The two best-known workshop

(i)
by the use of an instrument called a trammel, and (2) by
are
methods
The trammel is usually made by the cabinetmaker
and
string.
pins
of
aid
the
The base, out of A-in. Cuba mahogany, is
I, p. 28.
himself, and is shown in
halved together and grooved, the grooves being about {'6 in. deep. The ends are
halved off to take a screw as shown if wanted for fixing. The bar should be
made of good hard wood, rose, or satinwood, and into this are screwed two sliders
to fit the groove, and these are left loose enough to allow the bar to revolve.
The end of the bar is bored to take a pencil, with a small wedge to secure
To set the trammel for working order, mark off from the pencil point
it.
to the centre of head half the short axis or width of the required ellipse,
and set with wedges then from same point mark off half the long axis,
and
fix
length,
or
important part of

f.

the second head.

sliders

easily
15>

should

up

the groove.

The
work

down
The base

and

must be fixed or held

when the bar

moved round to

firmly
is

"Elevations" and
"Plan" of a Chest
of Drawers.

the bar

is

complete the ellipse.

Fig. 1 shows the trammel in the position of
describing an ellipse,
and f. 2 is a section of
bar and head, and f. 3
a side view of the sliding piece, but a more
elaborate one can be
constructed with metal
heads through which

passed, with a thumb-screw to adjust the points.

trammel the same principle can be applied with a straightedge,

Draw the long and short axes of the
1,
required ellipse, and from one end of the straightedge mark off half the short axis
and also half the long one. These two points must be kept on the two lines
as seen in diagram
1, and moved round slowly, as pencil marks are made
On completing the four
at the end of the straightedge at short distances.
This is a handy method, and
quarters, the ellipse can be finished freehand.
another one well known in workshops is by using a piece of string and three
pins as follows (see f. 2)
Set out the long and short axes. From c mark
off the length of half the long axis cutting it in A and B, at the points A, B, C,
drive in three panel pins, and tightly tie a piece of thin twine around them
as shown.
Then pull out the pin at C, and firmly hold the pencil point
in
its
place and move it round with the twine taut until the ellipse is
complete. This method can only be used where it will not injure the wood
Failing a

f.

p. 29,

or narrow piece of cardboard.

f.

DRAWING GEOMETRY PERSPECTIVE,

ETC.

3i

to knock in the pins, and where this objection arises either the last-named
trammel method must be adopted, or a template of the ellipse prepared
and the line marked from that. There is also another way which is sometimes
used to set out an elliptic head to a door by intersecting lines (see f. 3, p. 29).
This shows the top rail of the door, and the dotted line on it the height
of the curve, whilst the middle line is the inside edge or rail, and represents
the long axis of the ellipse.
Below it draw another dotted line the same
distance as the top one (this can be done by fitting a piece of pine in
the same thickness as the rail), then draw the centre line or short axis.
Divide the angles into five equal parts and carry the division across to the
Draw lines through, and from the numbers as shown,
opposite one as shown.
and where they intersect the lines at corresponding numbers, the points are
given to join up the ellipse freehand. A complete ellipse can be constructed by
this method when others are not possible.
All the above problems are known as plane geometry, or the treatment of
Other problems applied to
flat surfaces.
practical work will be found in Chapter X.,
but when we come to the drawing of solids
such as a chest of drawers would be other

principles

necessary.

are

drawing of a job

i.e.,

most instances

in

The

elevation stands on a ground line

underneath

and

all

The
a

is

what

projection,

or

is

known

right

these are necessary.

and

in

plan should be drawn

little

view, and will rest in

This

it

the front, end, and plan,

and

the vertical plane.

scale

required, three views of

is

are usually given,

When

below

the

front

the horizontal plane.

as the orthographic

projection,

correct views of an object,

and

is

as

the

it

gives

method

Plan and Elevation of a Semi-

circular Table.
drawings and designs of a practical nature when real dimensions are necessary. The sketch opposite shows a chest of drawers drawn in this way, and to a
young beginner the best illustration of the principle involved is to look at a chest
standing against the wall.
If the outline could be drawn on the wall and the
bearers and fronts put in, we should then get a front elevation on the vertical
In the same way an end view would be shown,
plane represented by the wall.
or projected on to, the right hand wall, another vertical plane.
To get the plan,
an exact outline of the top would be marked on the floor, which is the horizontal
plane, and the intersecting line between the wall and the floor is shown on the
paper as the ground line on which the chest is standing, so that the student
must imagine the wall as lying flat on the paper, and the floor below the ground
line, or as it is technically known, the X V line.
This the student can easily illustrate for himself by folding the paper up to form a right angle, and holding a notebook at one end, when the three planes are exhibited, then by turning the book
into the vertical plane as though it were hinged on its inner edge, and laying the
paper flat again, the position of the two elevations should be understood.

adopted

in all

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

32

These views are

essential if the correct shape of a job

of a semicircular or elliptic table, see p. 31.

The

is

to be

known,

e.g.,

elevations are straight while

the plans give the real shape, as in f. 1 below, which

shows a three-corner cabinet in a similar position. The
true length and shape of the curved rails of the table
and the sloping sides of the cabinet can only be shown
on the plan. It is often necessary to give two, three,
or more elevations, as in the case of fitments, and it is
from these scale views that the foreman sets out the
The
full-size working drawings and adds the details.
actual method adopted is given in the chapter on
" Foreman's Work."
For the simple or pictorial illustration of square
and rectangular objects such as joints and parts of
an easy method is by oblique projection. In
this, one face is always parallel to the V.P., and the
lines of the other faces are drawn at any convenient
In isometric projection, which is also
angle, as in f. 2.
used, the horizontal lines are drawn at an angle of 30
degs., as in f. 3, and in both methods a 30-deg. set
square can be used rapidly, whilst real measurements
are struck off along the lines which are parallel to each
Most of the joints in this book are drawn in
other.
oblique projection, but it must be clearly understood
that these methods are only applicable to such small
things, neither must they be confused with perspective.
Perspective is a branch of drawing mostly used by
draughtsmen, designers, and salesmen, and needs some

Uwork,

and

Elevation

Plan

of a Three-cornered

Cabinet.

hard study and continued practice to become

The student should well master the
efficient in it.

geometry first, and if possible

attend a class where he can learn perspective
drawing step by step.
Failing this, he might
simple
objects, being above
begin by sketching
to
a
good
view
rather than a showy
all careful
get
one.
Continual practice alone can train the eye to
correct views and quick drawing, whilst experience
will soon show the best methods, and it is recognised that draughtsmen as a rule make their own.
principles of solid

On

Oblique

"

View.

the other hand, principles cannot be ignored,

and

it

is

necessary to

striking an individual

understand them before

These principles are

line.

on p. 33, where the "setting up" of a

chest, and room is briefly outlined.

illustrated
table,

Several
specialise

methods

perspective

in

perspective,"

f.

1,

is

adopted,

are
as

often

in

and

other

utilised,

but

Isometric View.

men

branches.
its

That

principles,

termed
if

applied

" parallel

to

the

DRAWING GEOMETRY PERSPECTIVE,

ETC.

Fig..

CV.

CENTAL- OF -VISION.
v

V.PVAMISHING -POINT.
G.L GROUND - LINEHI- HORIZON - OR.

HORIZOMTAL-LINL
POSITION OF
TH EL 5PECTATO l=L.

5.

Kev to the corn

- er of the. roomy

X.

33

34

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

representation of certain objects such as the table shown, do not succeed in

producing a satisfactory view. An adaptation of " architects' perspective " is
though a
generally used, as being more correct and suitable for its purpose
rule-of-thumb method, it is most effective in the hands of a good draughtsman.
See f. 2 & 3, p. 33. Lines above the eye or higher than 5 ft. appear to come
down, and those below to rise up. All these lines would meet at one point known
The diagram explains how this point is found.
as the vanishing point or V.P.
Plan P is
Fig. 2 shows the elevation and plan of a chest of drawers.
placed anglewise, one side making, say, 30 degs. with a horizontal drawn through
G.L. is
s is suitably placed below the plan, so that the best view is obtained.
A.
below. The V.P.'s are found by
5 ft. in this instance
ruled parallel to H.L.
Drop perpendicular A B to G.L.
ruling lines from S parallel to the sides of P.
Draw from B to each V.P. From B cut off B C, the height of the table part on
B A. From C rule to each v. P., draw lines from L and M, in direction of S to X X.
From X X drop perpendiculars cutting the vanishing lines. The method of
The chest is found by repeating the necessary
finding the legs is shown at L.
part of the process, and the positions of the divisions, handles, &c, by marking
them on the plan and projecting. The important decorative features are introduced by hand. The drawing is transferred to the paper for finished work,
and completed either by firm outlining, shading, or colouring, according to the
capacity of the draughtsman. This problem forms the key by which a great
number may be drawn. Most tables, cabinets, &c, in their main lines are
Dimensions vary
rectangular in form, or deviate very little from it.
parts
project
some pieces have shaped or curved work but the underlying principle
These difficulties can only be overcome by experience. When dealing
is there.
with work above the eye, f. 3, with key, draw the plan on a separate slip of
paper, and pin in position until all points X X have been marked on H.L.
Then
remove the slip and proceed as in f. 2.
Design. Without some knowledge of the principles of design it is not
;

Good proportion, good colour,

and the right use of materials and ornaments are essentials in fine cabinetwork.
There must also be a knowledge of construction and of the methods of building
Added to these are certain forms
up, with all their possibilities and limitations.
and sizes which long usage has fixed, such as the height of a writing table, a
chair, or a sideboard.
There are differences to remember when designing a
wardrobe and a china cabinet for in the one it is carcase work with fiat surfaces
to cover, and in the other it is principally framing where the harmony of many
lines has to be considered.
The treatment of mouldings and their relation to
possible to build up a good piece of furniture.

position in projecting, receding, or on the

The metal

placing of ornament.
estimated, and in

and position

all

fiat, is

important, as well as the proper

a feature which must not be underwork there should be a right appreciation of their value
fittings are

careful study of old examples should prove of

value to designers and cabinetmakers alike, and especially in
obtaining good proportion. For heavy, solid furniture, such as is needed for

real

the

in

a design.

practical

hall, library,

or dining-room, the best Jacobean period affords

models, whilst the

supplies

many

mahogany and satinwood work of

some excellent

the eighteenth century

useful suggestions for lighter cabinetmaking.

DRAWING GEOMETRY PERSPECTIVE,

Technical and

Workshop Terms.

The

names of the

furniture are taken from architecture, as in plinth (the base)

and pediment.

ETC.

35

principal parts of

surbase (table part

The names

of mouldings are
Mouldings "), and a box
cornice which consists of top or cornice moulding, frieze and neck moulding or
The term "carcase" is applied to
architrave
is known as an "entablature."
the body of a job, and " in the white " refers to work in any wood when it is
unpolished.
The parts of a door are known as the " stiles," which are the
uprights, the " rails," which are horizontal, and the centre uprights are called
" muntins."
" Chamfer," " splay," " bevel," and " cant," are terms of similar
meaning applied to equal or unequal ("splay") slopes planed off the "arris" or
When boards or panels have twisted out of the flat they are said to
corner.
have " cast," or are in " winding." Other terms are given with the work to
which they apply, and a larger list will be found in the Glossary.
or half base)

pilaster cornice,

similar, as in ogee, ovolo,

and

dentil (see chapter

on

"

CHAPTER

IV.

JOINTS AND THEIR APPLICATION.

Synopsis.

Glued Joints.
Rubbed

Plate VI.

Ploughed and Tongued Feather Tongued Matched Joints Secret Slot

Screwed Joints Dowelled Joints Dowelled Butt Jointing Dowelled Clamping

Bevelled Jointing

Coopering.

Halved and Bridle

Joints.

Plate VII.

Dovetail Halved Bridle Joints Halved Angle Joint Halved Tee

Oblique Halving Mitred Halving Dovetail Halving Stopped Dovetail
Halving Angle Bridle Joint Tee Bridle Joint Mitred Bridle Joint Oblique

Halved Joints
Joint

Bridle Joint.

Mortise and Tenon Joints.

Plate VIII.

Stub Mortise and Tenon

Haunched Mortise and Tenon Through Mortise and Tenon

Wedging Barefaced Mortise and Tenon Long and Short Shoulder
Pinning Tongued Shoulder Double Mortise and Tenon.

Foxtail
Joint

Dovetail Joints.

Through Dovetailing
Mitred Secret

Lapped

and Stopped Dovetailing Secret Lapped Dovetailing

Keying Common Dovetails Common Lapped
Shouldered Dovetail Housing Dovetail and Housed Joints.

Cistern

Common Housed

Plate IX.

Dovetails

Mitred Joints.

Plate X.

and Tongued Mitre, Uses of Veneer Keyed Mitre, Description of Dovetail

Keyed Mitre Rebate and Mitre Joint, for Framing Bolted Mitreing, Special Uses
of Screwed Mitreing
Mason's Mitre Joint, Method of Making Mitred Stuck
Moulding Tongued Mitre Joint Dowelled Mitre Braced Mitre.

Plain Mitre

Framing

Joints.

Plate

XL

Double Tongued Mitre Double Rebate and Bead.

Tongued Joint Barefaced Tongued Joint Tongue and Ovolo

Return Bead and Butt Rebate and Ovolo Bead and Rebate Rebate and Mitre
Rebate and Round Hollow Corner Jointing Splayed Corner Jointing Fluted
Corners Matched Joint
Beaded Matching V Matching Groove and Bead Joint

Butt or Square Joint

Hingeing and Shutting Joints.

Plate XII.

Rebated Astragal Shutting Joint Rebated Hanging Rebated

Centre Hung Door Joint Rebated Shutting Joint Rebated

Butted Hinged Joint

Dustproof Joints

36

Plate

SLOT-

SCREWED

BRACKET- AMD

PART -VIEW- AnD-SECTlOMOF A-FRAMED CYLINDERFALL

SHELF---

SLOT-

SCREWED

PILASTER-

VI.

"

TOHGUED- JQ1HT
OF- DIVIDING -RAIL-

METHOD -QE- LIPP1MGACTABLE-TOP---

joipiTipjG-m-connoDF^AHD- PILLARS

Glued

Joints.

[To face page

37-

bage 37.

JOINTS
Pilaster

Hingeing

AND THEIR APPLICATION

37

Dustproof Joint Centre Hung Door Rebated Edge

Bevel Rebated Joint Secretaire Face Front.

Joint

Centre Hinged Bureau Face

Miscellaneous Joints.

Handrail
Slot Screwing.

Pocket Screwing

Keying

Joint

Joints Connecting

Plate XIII.

Cleating Dovetail

Cleating

Buttoning Dovetail

Movable Parts of Furniture.

Plate

XIV.

Hinged Joint Rule Joint Knuckle Screen Hinge Joint Revolving Bracket
Hinged Bracket Finger Joint Knuckle Joint Slide Supports.

Plain

This chapter
and

describes and illustrates most of the joints used in cabinetwork,

to render the explanations

many

the applications of

more

explicit,

diagrams are introduced showing

of the joints, and their places in actual

portions

of completed work.

GLUED
Rubbed

Joints,

1.

f.

These
when

are rubbed into position

JOINTS.

are the simplest kind of joints to make,

glueing.

They
They

boards or wood of fairly open texture.

stuff is crooked.
An application of this joint

Ploughed and Tongue Jointing,

stuff,

2,

are sometimes
illustrated in
is

the

f.

cramped

if

the

10.

commonest method of

Either one or two cross tongues are used, according to the thickness

jointing.

of

f.

is

and

are the most suitable for thin

and the additional glueing surface afforded by the tongues increases

Feather tongues are not nearly so strong as cross

Both tongues prevent the passage of
light and air should the joint part in the course of time, but feather tongues are
generally used for dry jointing only. Cross-tongued joints are used in nearly
all cases where a strong joint is required, such as f. 16.
Matched Joints, illustrated in f. 3, are generally used for dry jointing, but
may be used also in glued joints. The difference between a " tongued " and a
" matched " joint is that the former has a loose tongue inserted in the groove,
whilst the latter consists of a tongue worked upon the solid and fitted into a
corresponding groove. An application of this joint to a division rail is shown
the strength of the joint.

tongues, which are cut across the grain.

in

15.

f.

Secret Slot Screwed Joints, f. 4, are not much used for glued joints in
furniture, but they are especially useful for jointing stuff, such as shelves, &c,
which are required almost immediately after glueing. The secret screwing
permits of planing and fitting if carefully handled whilst the glue is drying,
but
in

its

f.

most

is in the fixing of shelves and brackets, as shown

and to almost every kind of fitting required to be firmly
ranging from panelling to the pediment or gallery on a

useful application

11, pilasters in

but secretly fixed,

f.

13,

sideboard.

Dowelled Joints,

long

beech

f.

7.

for preference

Dowels are cylindrical pieces of wood about 2

inserted into holes which are bored into the jointed

in.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

38

edges of stuff. They may be used in nearly every instance for strengthening
Applications are shown in f. 12 & 14.
Dowelled Butt Jointing, f. 5, is used for lengthening timber, such as large
This joint is
cornice mouldings and casings round girders for beam ceilings.
also used in work where cross grain prevents tenoning.
Dowelled Clamping, f. 6, is a variation of dowelled jointing proper. The
diagram shows long grain jointing to end grain, but it is also used for jointing
end grains together. The application of both types is shown in f. 14, which is

joints.

a writing table top.

Bevelled Jointing,

f.

8,

consists of

to form various angles or corners.

It

making
is

joints

between pieces of

stuff

a variation of "rubbed jointing," but

cramping is usually required. This is effected by glueing blocks on the pieces

and pulling together with hand-screws. The applications of this joint
16

&

are

commode

f.

used in practically every

instance where bevelled or rounded corners are required.
Occasionally the
joints are tongued as shown, or blocked if possible.
17

in

Coopered

Joints.

carcases, but

This

term

is

the joint

is

applied to the jointing

shown

in

f.

9,

used for connecting pieces to form various curves, as, for instance, a cylinder
12
table fall
curved panels in framing, and circular or kidney-shaped
f.

carcases and pedestals.

Plate

Vii.

Halved and Bridle

Joints
To face page

39-

AND THEIR APPLICATION

JOINTS

HALVED AND BRIDLE

The diagrams

f.

JOINTS.

4 show various halved joints.

to

39

These are the simplest

cabinetwork, and are used for a variety of purposes.

connecting joints in
two pieces of wood form a

Where

19, the halved

would
dovetailing
tenoning
or
strongest
connection,
whereas
the
joint effects

considerably decrease

halved jointing
in

is

its

used

shape, such as the illustration

f.

Similarly to mortising and tenoning,

conjunction with mitreing in moulded work, especially

bearing strength.

in

connecting shaped forms in the underrailing of tables, cabinets, and sideThe chief uses of these joints,

boards, dealt with in their respective chapters.

however, are in faced-up grounds for doors, and skeleton grounds for fixing,
being both economical and strong. Dovetail Halved Joints, f. 5 to 8, are
used to resist an outward strain, such as would occur in the strengthening
Bridle Joints, f. 9 to 12, in their
very large frames.
be used in most of the instances enumerated above, where
a stronger joint having a neater appearance is required.
Halved Angle Joint, f. 1.
The end of each piece is halved and
shouldered on opposite sides, fitting into each other. This is the commonest
pieces halved

into

various forms

may

form of halving, and most used, on account of its simplicity and strength.
The outside angles in the frames illustrated in f. 13, 14, & 17, show its use,
and it is very effective for connecting battens to form skeleton grounds for
stretching material upon, or for fixing to rough walls where a true and
secure ground is required for panelling or fitments.
Halved Tee Joint, f. 2. This is of similar construction to the above joint,
and is used for connecting cross pieces in framing to act as stretchers or cross
rails and muntings, as in f. 14.
This illustration refers to a halved-up frame or
ground, to receive " mitred " and " butted and mitred " facing, which are glued
down, and allowed to project beyond the inside edge, forming a rebate to receive

the panel.

f. 3.
A variation of the above for oblique connections,
Similar pieces are occasionally dovetail halved across the

Oblique Halving,
such as

in

f.

15.

angles of large frames to act as strengthening braces.

Mitred Halving, f. 4. This is the weakest form of halving, due to

decreased glueing surface, caused by mitre, and indicated by mitre and dotted
line.
Its use is rendered necessary when the face side of frame is moulded,
and

restricted to very light frames.

is

Dovetail Halving,
cross
f.

rails

in

15, refers to

f.

framing,

5,

6,

&

7.

where an

These are
outside

effective joints for connecting

strain

occurs.

The

application,

a gallows bracket used for supporting fixed shelves, or hinged

for collapsible wall flaps.

8.
This is
Stopped Dovetail Halving,
and is used where the edge of a framing
f.

joints,

joint

is

similar to the three previous

is

seen, or an ordinary halved

unsightly.

Angle Bridle

Joint,

f.

9.

very strong

joint,

used

for similar

work

to

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

4o

previous examples.

rims and
for

frames.

an excellent joint

It is

The

frame,

glass

mortising and tenoning.

f.

for
a,

18,

connecting segments in curved

shows its use as a substitute

Tee Bridle Joint, f. 10. Used for connections where a stronger joint
than lapped halving is required. Fig. 17, <?, shows its application to a framed
groundwork, which is afterwards faced up, with the glass frame pivoted at
This is a suitable method of
its centre, forming a dressing-table top part.
construction for enamelled work, where the end grain of joints

Mitred Bridle Joint,

as in

f.

18, b,

f.

Suitable
This used

for

11.

&c.

Oblique Bridle Joint,

of framing.

f.

12.

is

both

for

flat

is

concealed.

and moulded frames,

connecting the inside

member

Plate

Vlli.

CABRIOLE
LE G-AMD'
RAIL'

{To face page V-

IOLE.-

JOINTS

AND THEIR APPLICATION

41

MORTISE AND TENON JOINTS.

Stub Mortise and Tenon. Fig. 1 illustrates the type of mortising and
tenoning mostly used in doors and framing of furniture. It consists of a rectangular solid projection formed on the ends of rails, fitting into a corresponding

When used in
reduced in width as shown in diagram, thus allowing sufficient
wood to remain on the stile to afford the necessary strength in resisting a
lengthwise strain.
Inside members of framing, as cross rails, muntings, &c, are
either tenoned in full width or reduced on both sides, according to the size of
Applicatenon, and arrangement of grooves or rebates to receive the panel.
cavity cut into the stile called a mortise, and secured with glue.
doors, the tenon

tions

shown

in

is

f.

11, 13,

&

20.

Haunched Mortise and Tenon,

2.
f.
This has similar uses to above,
obtained by the formation of a haunch, which fits
into a small adjoining stub mortise, the centre groove to receive the panel being

but additional strength

is

Applications shown

usually enlarged to receive the haunch.

Through Mortise and Tenon,

f.

4.

in

f.

II.

These are either tenoned, or haunched

The outside of the

stuff.
made rather larger than the inside, thus permitting the entry of
wedges when glueing these are driven home, and form a very strong kind of
and tenoned as diagram, and pass right through the
mortise

is

dovetailing.

This joint

is

not largely used in furniture, but

is

especially useful

heavy framing, f. 15, and groundworks as in f. 16.

Foxtail Wedging, f. 5, consists of an ordinary stub tenon, the mortise
being cut larger at the bottom. Saw cuts are made down the tenon, and wedges
inserted just before glueing up
these when driven home cause the tenon to
spread, thus forming a fox or dovetail type of joint.
Barefaced Mortise and Tenon, f. 6. This is used when the rail is
thinner than the stile, or when shouldering both sides of the tenon would tend
The tenon can be the full width of rail, or
to decrease the strength of joint.
haunched on either side to suit particular circumstances.
Long and Short Shoulder Mortise and Tenon. Fig. 7 shows one
shoulder of rail cut back to fill the space caused by rebating the framing. This
joint has many variations, being used as shown, or in combination with mitred
mouldings (see f. 17). Its chief use, however, is with grooved or rebated frames
and doors with the moulding planted in afterwards (see
14).
Pinning, f. 8, is a variation of through mortising and tenoning applied to
carcase work.
The diagram shows a division mortised into a carcase top or
for

f.

the
is afterwards wedged diagonally, or across the tenon, when
glued up (see carcase division in f. 19).
Tongued Shoulder Mortise and Tenon, f. 9. An ordinary mortise and

bottom.
carcase

It

is

tenoned joint with cross tongues inserted

in the shoulders.

The tongued

prevents the shoulder springing by affording additional glueing surface.

used

in vestibule

and lobby doors, and

Double Mortise and Tenons,

f.

for thick

joint

Chiefly

framed groundworks as in f. 16.

a stub mortise and tenon joint

10, is really

42

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

haunched out
It also

to

form two tenons, thus increasing the

lateral strength of stile.

applies to haunched-through mortising and tenoning.

are frequently

naunched

to

Sideboard ends
form four or more tenons, a method which effects

a stronger connection than dowelling.

Twin Mortise and Tenons are used in very thick stuff, and consist of
two tenons placed side by side, occasionally haunched to form double twin
They are used chiefly for lock rails of doors, with a wide haunching
tenons.
between, thus allowing the removal of wood to receive the mortise lock, without
Further use^ of this joint are dealt with in chapter on

weakening the joint.

" Air-tight Work."

Plate

IX.

Dlbvietail Joints.

[To

face teg*

&

JOINTS

AND THEIR APPLICATION

DOVETAIL

Through

43

JOINTS.

Dovetailing, f. i. This is the strongest form of dovetailing

common dovetailing the end grain showing on both sides of
the angle formed.
It is generally used for boxes, cases, pedestals, plinths, &c,
that are usually faced up afterwards, thus concealing the joint.
Exceptional

sometimes called

occur in scientific instrument cases, the dovetails being visible.

Application f. 12 applies to carcase work, and f. 21 shows a bevelled dovetail
hopper.
For angles and proportions of dovetailing refer to chapter on " Work-

instances

shop Practice and Construction."

Lapped or Stopped Dovetailing, f. 2, is so called because a lap is left
upon the pin piece it is used in carcases, drawers, and similar settings, proportions varying according to the work.
The applications f. 13, 15, 16, &c,
show various forms of ordinary lapped dovetailing applied to carcases of
furniture, the joint being concealed with top, plinth, or cornice, &c.
Secret Lapped Dovetailing, f. 3, is somewhat similar to above, two
laps are formed, and the joint, when glued up, only shows the end grain of
This joint is generally used in boxes and plinth frames,
lap in pin piece.
which are afterwards rounded off, the radius of quadrant equalling width of lap.
Mitred Secret Dovetailing, f. 4, is the neatest type of dovetailing pieces
This joint is always
are really dovetailed together, the laps being mitred.
used for bases, plinths, &c, in solid work where an invisible dovetail joint is
required, and is also the best joint for connecting groundworks before veneering.
Application in f. 24, a and b.
Cistern Dovetailing, f. 5. So called because of its almost exclusive use
in cisterns and hot-water tank casings.
The pins and dovetails are spaced
;

equally to ensure proportionate shrinkage, but

carcase and

Keying,
It is

occasionally used for ordinary

This

6.

is

called

German

dovetailing and also finger-jointing.

machine dovetail

joint, and is largely used on the

however, quite unsuitable for making by hand.
Common Dovetail, shown in f. 8, is used chiefly for dovetailing brackets

Continent
together,
pull.

f.

shown here

it is

box work.

as

it is,

and also

for frames,

which are required to

resist

a heavy

downward

Several variations of this joint occur, including the four following

Common Lapped

Dovetail,

f.

7.

For

similar uses to the above, also in

and connecting curved rails of frames, where mortise and tenon

employed,
17.
Common Housed Dovetailing, 9. When shouldered and dovetailed
on one side only, it is called bareface dovetail housing. These types are the
simplest form of housed dovetailing, and the dovetailing is parallel throughout
its length.
Used in connecting rails of plinths, stretcher frames, &c. Application shown in f. 24 and 20, b.
10.
Like the above joint, this is
Shouldered Dovetail Housing,
light doors,

joints cannot be effectively

f.

f.

f.

44

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

shouldered on one or both sides, but the dovetail tapers in its length also.
Used for similar purposes to above, and also for connecting fixed shelves to
divisions, false bottoms and in carcases (see f. 20, a and c).
Dovetailed and Housed, f. 1 r. Another variation of the above joints, and
used for comparatively small carcase work, where the length of an end does

not

demand

or bending.

a dovetail right through the stuff in order to prevent

Application in

f.

23.

it

sagging

Plate

Mitred

x.

Joints.

[To face page 45-

AND THEIR APPLICATION

JOINTS

MITRED
Plain Mitre,

f.

i.

This

mitreing,

it

shown

in

is

is
f.

Mitre,

2.

f.

This

cross tongue inserted at right

for

this joint

is

the internal angle, thus

in

frequently used for end grain

most suitable for mitreing with the grain, a variation of which

For application of plain mitreing, refer to f. 12.

3, a.

Tongued

method of connecting end grain

Blocks are glued

Although

strengthening the joint.

JOINTS.

the simplest

is

pieces in plinths, skirtings, &c.

45

similar

is

to

f.

1,

with the addition of a

It is chiefly used

angles between the mitre.

end grain mitreing, and forms a very strong

joint, if

strengthened with

when the internal angle is not seen. Application in 12.

Veneer Keyed Mitre,
3, consists of a plain mitre, which, when glued
is strengthened by kerfing the angle with a saw, and glueing hardwood

angle block,

f.

f.

up,

veneers

into the

Chiefly used

cuts.

of the angle are seen, and

in

cases

and boxes, where both

sides

connecting thin wood,

which would not permit of mitre dovetailing. Applications shown in f. 14, A.
Dovetail Keyed Mitre, f. 4. This has similar uses to former joint. Hardwood slips are prepared, dovetailed in section, and slightly tapered in length,
especially suitable

is

for

glued into corresponding sockets, and levelled off when dry. See f. 14, B.
Rebate and Mitred Joint, f. 3, a. Used for connecting varying angles

in

framing, casings, &c, chiefly in painted work.

The

rebate strengthens the

and also prevents the mitres slipping when glueing and nailing.
Bolted Mitreing f. 5. A plain mitre, fixed together with a hand rail
bolt.
Short dowels are inserted to prevent working. It is used for heavy
work, such as wooden fender curbs and moulded openings of fireplaces.

joint,

Application shown in

15.

f.

Screwed Mitreing,
outside of frame.

f.

6.

plain mitre, strengthened

by screwing through

Variations of this joint are the plain mitre, and dowelled

All are used in light moulded frames.

Mason's Mitre Joint,
7.
An ordinary mortise and tenon joint, with
the moulding worked right through the muntings, and on the rail as shown.

or pinned.

f.

The

corners are then

carved to form a mitre on the moulding.

It

is

used

and fittings. See f. 17.

Mitred Stuck Moulding. Fig. 9 is a mitred stuck moulding used for
connecting mouldings in framing to form various angles. This is the most
common joint used in moulded framing and doors.
Tongued Mitre Joint, f. 8. The diagram shows a sectional view of
the joint, which is a variation of plain mitreing, and is nearly always used
for end grain jointing.
The tongue should be about one-third thickness
It is an
of stuff, and may run right through the mitre or stop as shown.
especially useful joint for mitreing mouldings round groundwork, connecting
double bolection mouldings, as in
18, quartering stuff for tops and panels,
mitreing stuff round tops which project slightly above the surface to receive

chiefly in mediseval furniture

f.

46

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

leather linings,

and also

with dowels, as shown in

Dowelled Mitre,

for
f.

f.

Braced Mitre,

f.

11.

f.

13,

or

16.

10.

sides of the angle are seen,

connecting segments in curved work; see

This

has similar uses to the above, where both

and secret fixing required.

This

is

used chiefly for strengthening plain mitres

in framings, such as moulded panel openings which are occasionally separated

from the main framework.

in section,

the joint.

known

The

as a dovetail

black portion also shows a slip dovetailed

key, used to brace the backs of frames at

Plate

Xl,

Framing Joints.
[To face pag**

'

JOINTS AND THEIR APPLICATION

FRAMING

47

JOINTS.

A Butt or Square Joint, f. 1, is usually secured by glueing and nailing.

This joint when used as an external angle in framing would be secret-screwed
or screw-nailed if for painted work.
A Tongued Joint, f. 2, is chiefly used for connecting external and internal
angles of framing, building up pedestals and pilasters.
Application shown in
f.

22, a.

The Barefaced Tongued

Joint,

f.

3, is

shouldered on one side only, and

used for internal and external angles, with a bead worked upon the tongued
piece to hide the joint.
It is also used for external angles, omitting the bead
is

(see

f.

21).

Ovolo, f. 4. A variation of above joint, and used for external

angles, the ovolo forming an alternative method of finishing corner (see f. 22, b).
The Return Bead and Butt, f. 5, consists of a plain butt joint with a "return"
Application shown in f. 22, c.
or " staff bead " worked upon the through piece.
Rebate and Ovolo, f. 6. A variation of the butt joint, suitable for painted

Tongue and

work, and secured by nailing.

Bead and Rebate, f. 7.

rebated joint, with a bead to hide the joint.
Secured by nailing or secret screwing. Also used for connecting framed and
munted backs to carcase ends (see f. 26, b, when it is screwed in position).
Rebate and Mitre, f. 8. A very useful joint in connecting framing at any
angle.
The rebate acts as a guide or stop when fixing, which is generally
Application shown in f. 22, d.
nailed or screwed, and pelleted in painted work.
Rebate and Round, f. 9. An ordinary rebated joint, glued together, with

the corner rounded off.

Chiefly used in nursery fittings.
Hollow Corner Jointing, f. 10, shows a method of forming hollow angles or
corners.
Groove and tongue joints are used, and glued into position when fixing.
Splayed Corner Jointing. Fig. 1 1 is an example of a splayed pilaster,

The

with the method adopted in joining the ends or frames.

f. 24 refers to a wardrobe with splayed pilaster corners.

application in

Fluted Corners, f. 12. The fluted piece is shaped as shown in diagram,

order to facilitate fixing, by clearing any projections or irregularities in the
corner of a wall.
A similar joint is largely used for external angles in Chippendale hollow cornered pedestal tables, these corners being fluted, carved, or reeded.
in

3.
f.
So called, because the tongue is worked upon the
from a tongued joint, when a loose tongue is inserted. It is
connecting boards to form matched backs, partitions, munted backs,

Matched

Joint,

solid, differing

used for
&c. (see

f.

25, a).

Beaded Matching,

f.

14.

The

former joint elaborated by the addition of

a bead on the tongued piece, nearly always used dry for similar purposes as

above (see

f.

25, b).

V-Matching,

f.

15.

A variation

piece are chamfered, thus forming a

The edges

of the above joint.

V joint (see

also

f.

25,

c).

of each

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

48

16.
This
Barefaced Tongue Groove and Bead Joint,
munted backs, the panel being thinner than the munting (see
f.

is
f.

used chiefly in
26, a).

In the

framing at f. 23, A, it will be noticed that the panel is beaded lengthways

only in the "bead and butt." The "bead and flush" framing has the head
moulding returned at both ends. This is effected by scratching the moulding

by the cleaner and more usual method of rebating the stuff

away and mitreing a piece of moulding in the rebate thus formed between the
across the grain, or

mitres (see

f.

23, b).

Double Tongued Mitre

joint,

used for external angles.

Joint,
It is

Double Rebate and Bead,

secured by nailing.

f.

f.

17.

A variation

very strong, and

18

Of

similar

of the rebate and mitre

made
uses

secure
to

by

nailing.

the above, and

"

Plate

xil.

Ir

'vVVVVVWXVVWxVgg

"

'

'
'

^^

-r

fe

ft^WAW\v^W

^^^^S^SS

^\\V\VsVW\^\\^V

y
\\\S\S\\\SS\\\\\\SSS\S\\ \\ \ \\N\-Vs\\\\\ SS\\\ \\\\\\\\\S \ V
,

SSXsSSSXsSSS .S'^^

Ir

HlXGEING AND SHUTTING

JOINTS.
[To face page W-

JOINTS

AND THEIR APPLICATION

49

HINGEING AND SHUTTING JOINTS.

The diagrams on the opposite page
methods of arranging hinged parts of

illustrate in section the

The exact

furniture.

most important
position of pin

of butt or pivoted centre hinge, is indicated by a small black

but where centre hinges are used, they will be noted in the following
The methods of fixing the various hinges is described in Chapter XII.

centre, either
circle,

text.

shows a Butted Hinged Joint, the commonest method of hanging doors.

The entire hinge is sunk flush into the hanging stile, b, Rebated
Astragal Shutting Joint. The astragal is glued to the stile, and rebated to
form a projection, which conceals any shrinkage in the adjoining stile. Brass
astragal mouldings are frequently used with this joint, with a flange rebated
and screwed into the stile, c, Rebated Hinge Joint, of similar uses to the
Fig. 2, a, Rebated Dustproof
butted hinged joint, but is more dustproof.
bead glued into the carcase
a
dust
Joint, is similar to the preceding joint, with
These beads are
door
stile.
in
groove
end, and fitting into a corresponding
and airproof
dust
absolutely
an
and
form
with
felt
rubber,
sometimes covered
or
Fig.

1, a,

connection,

b,

Similar to astragal shutting joint,

f.

1,

but rebated into the

Fig. 3, a, shows
simple dustproof joint, but very effective.
c,
b, A rebated
the position of stiles when the doors are hung over the carcase,
astragal joint, stronger than previous types of wood astragals, but has the dis-

meeting

stile,

advantage of showing a space if either of the stiles shrink. It is most suitable

c, A dustproof joint with bead worked upon the
for flush or laminated doors,
end.
Beads are also inserted in carcase top and bottom. Fig. 4, a, a Centre
Hung Door. Centre hingeing is used for very heavy work, such as glazed
wardrobe doors. It is much stronger than butt hingeing, is neater in appearb shows the shutting stile of the door
ance, and the centre pivots are invisible,
Rebated Shutting Joint, c. Rebated
against a stop bead screwed to the end.
Pilaster Hingeing, d, suitable for Tallboy chests, cabinets, &c, which have
drawers enclosed by doors. The projection portion enables the drawers to pull
out when the door is open, without the addition of false ends to permit the
drawers clearing the edge of door. Dustproof Joint, f. 5, a, suitable for single
door carcases, rendering the locking stile dustproof and b, detail for the hingeing stile. Fig. 6, a and b, are details for a single door fitted between the carcase
ends.
Centre Hung Door, f. 7, shows a hollowed pilaster and stop bead.
The false end is inserted to allow trays or drawers to pull out beyond the
Fig. 8 shows an
edge of door, which only swings in an angle of 90 deg.
;

arrangement for a similar purpose, the door in this case passing

through an angle of about 130 deg.
Rebated Edge Joint, f. 8, is used in
drawers of the Queen Anne and William and Mary periods, having a neat
appearance, and concealing any shrinkage which might occur in the drawer.
The diagram, f. 12, indicates
Fig. 10 shows its application to a cabinet door.
Quadrants or stays are
a Centre Hinged Bureau Fall, with stop rebates.
Bevel Rebated
fixed to the ends for support when in a horizontal position.
alternative

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

5o

Joint,

f.

13, is

largely used for secretaire flaps

and

falls,

which are also supported

another application of this joint to a sliding

with quadrant
When brought to a horizontal position
cabinet.
liqueur
and falling leaf in a
Fig. 14 shows this joint applied
divisions.
the
between
home
it is pushed
The drawer
bottom part.
bookcase
in
a
drawer
front
drop
to a secretaire
Fall
Joint, f. 15,
Secretaire
is
released.
front
before
the
is partly withdrawn
stays.

has similar uses to

f.

Fig. 9

13.

is

Plate

xili.

JOINTS

AND THEIR APPLICATION

51

MISCELLANEOUS JOINTS.

Pocket Screwing. Figs. 1 and 2 show, in elevation and section, two

methods of pocket screwing. The first consists of boring holes obliquely from
the top edge of a rail or rim, then gauging a pocket as shown.
The second
example b has a A--in. hole bored in the rim to admit a screwdriver, and then a
smaller hole is bored to take a screw, and a button glued into the hole under
rim when finishing. Both these methods are largely used for fixing table tops
(see f. 9), and for work of a similar character.
The Handrail or Dowel Screw Joint, f. 3, is not used to any great extent
in furniture, but is occasionally useful for connecting segments of curved work,
chair rails, serpentine curves, and butt joints.
Its chief recommendation is its
simplicity, and the fact that it is a secret fixing.
Fig. 12 gives an example of its
use in connecting the curved segments of a semi-head frame, but a dowelled
joint in this case would be equally effective.
Cleating, f. 4, consists of screwing cleats or clamps across boards to hold
them quite straight. It will be noticed that the screw holes are slotted. This

move if either contraction or expansion occurs.

Dovetail Cleating, f. 5, is a variation of the above, the cleat being dovetailed both in section and lengthwise.
This joint acts similarly to f. 4, for which
it is substituted when the thickness of stuff permits of grooving.
Buttoning, f. 6. A method of fixing the wide tops of counters, bank desks,
and tables (see also f. 9). A rectangular block of wood is rebated to fit a
corresponding groove on inside of rail, then screwed securely to top, allowing a
small space to remain between the butt of the button and the rail, this permitting
contraction and expansion.
Buttoning is undoubtedly the best kind of fixing
for almost every kind of top
but laminated and small work, where shrinkage
is scarcely perceptible, does not demand this provision.
The use of buttons
is

to allow the stuff to

T iron cleating is shown in f. 11, and f. 10 applies to wooden cleats

buttoned down. Georgian panelling frequently contains panels 8 to 12 ft. wide.
The shrinkage is, of course, proportionately large, and if the panels were not
applied to

would ensue if there were any dampness.

Dovetail Keying, f. 8. Hardwood keys about \ in. thick, double dovetailed
as shown, are inlaid into wide surfaces to increase the strength of joint their

treated in this way, buckling

almost restricted to repair work, such as shakes or splits which are first
glued and then keyed. The diagram f. 13 illustrates their use in joints placed
at intervals of about 1 5 in.
Slot Screwing, f. 7, indicates the method of forming this joint, which is
always used to secure a drawer bottom at the back, ensuring a close joint inside,
and yet allowing for shrinkage to occur in the bottom. The front edge is glued
use

is

any shrinkage which takes place is towards the front. Its

shown in f. 11 for fixing T iron cleats, and in
14 the munted

into groove, so that

application

is

bottom of a drawer.

f.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

52

MOVABLE PARTS OF FURNITURE.

JOINTS CONNECTING

Plain Hinged Joint. Fig. i is an ordinary butt or back flap hinged joint
used for connecting the drop leaves of tables.
Its use is confined to inferior
applied
shown in f. 12, 13, 14, &c.
could
be
to
any
of
the
tables
work, but it
When the leaf is raised the top is quite flush, but it has an unsightly appearance when lowered, a small space showing at the joint, as well as the knuckles
of the hinges.

The Rule

Joint,

f.

2,

worked upon the fixed edge of a

consists of an ovolo

Special rule joint hinges or back

corresponding hollow on the leaf.

used to connect them. When setting out the joint, the distance from
the flat side of hinge to centre of pin or knuckle must be gauged from under
The stop square, shown by continuation of dotted line, is
side of top, see f. 3.
top, with a
flaps are

placed directly above the centre, and the centre of pin

striking

moulded

The

section.

is

also the point for

hinges are sunk flush underneath, and as the

swings up or down, the moulded edges fit close and conceal the housing
This is used for connecting hinged leaves to table tops. See
of hinges.
examples opposite, and patent rule joint hinge in Chapter XII.
Knuckle Screen Hinge Joint, f. 4. The meeting joints of the wings
are shaped to section as seen in the diagram, with a moulded piece fitting
between them. Hinges are fixed at top and bottom as shown, with a centre
hinge for long joints. This connection is used in first-class screen work, and
Application shown in f. 14.
is quite draught-proof.
Revolving Bracket, f. 5. This consists of a piece of wood about i in.
wide fitting into the end, and pinned as shown. It can only be used in
conjunction with a false top, such as in f. 18, the dotted line indicating a false
It is used chiefly in
top framing, which receives one end of the iron pin.
well top work and Pembroke tables.
Hinged Bracket, f. 6. This is an ordinary shaped bracket hinged to the
ends of carcases and tables to support small leaves. When the leaf is lowered
the bracket is invisible.
Used as in application f. 16.
Finger Joint, f 7 & 9. The elevation and plan of a movable interlocking
joint is shown swinging in an angle of 90 deg.
The bracket is hinged to a
piece fixed to the rail, an iron pin acting as centre.
It is used chiefly for
leaf

shown in
12, 13, & 19.
15, and for fly rails, as
Knuckle Joint, 8 & 11. This is another method of interlocking movable
rails, shown in elevation and plan, neater in appearance than the former joint,
and used for similar purposes. This joint, if made as diagrams, opens at right
angles.
Fig.
shows a method of making to swing in an angle of 180 deg.,

brackets, as

f.

f.

f.

Both finger and knuckle joints

connecting legs on fly rails, which give more

the mitre lines acting as stops in both cases.

are used

for

brackets,

stability to a table

and

for

than brackets.

Application shown

in

f.

13, 15,

&c.

Plate XIV.

LI

JOINTS
Slide Supports. Fig.

AND THEIR APPLICATION

53

17 shows another method of supporting leaves

Slides are inserted under the top, dovetailed
or grooved in section, and corresponding bearers are fixed to the framing and
top.
The diagram shows a pair
of slides acting parallel to each other, but
they may also be arranged to butt
at the centre, according to available
space and required projection of slide
_

when extended.

CHAPTER

V.

WORKSHOP PRACTICE AND CONSTRUCTION.

General Workshop Practice.
Procedure

Hand and Machine Shops Marking out Sharpening Saws-

in

Ripping Cross-cutting Tenoning Shouldering Planing Use of

Winding Strips Squaring Edges Jointing Joints in Winding Jointing Thin
Boards Glueing Rubbed Joints Cramping up Dowelled Joints Ploughing
Tongueing Rebating Mortising and Tenoning Proportions for Tenons
Sawing

Gauge Clearing out Mortises Necessity for Upright Mortising

Dowelling a Butt Joint Dowelling Rails Dovetailing Setting out Angle for
Dovetailing
Correct and Incorrect Angle
Dovetail Template Spacing
Mitreing Mitreing Mouldings Panel Mouldings Mitreing Breaks Stuck Mouldings
Use of Templates Scribing Mouldings Application of Scribing Sharpening
Setting Mortise

Gouges Use of Slip Stones Working Mouldings Stuck-planed and Scratched

Mouldings Setting out for Working Use of Rubbers Toothing Sharpening and
Using Glass-papering Grades and Sizes Cleaning off Doors and FramingNailing Bradding Pinning Descriptions and Uses of ditto Preparing

Surfaces Stopping

Wood

Inlays

Composition Removing

Stains

Raising

Bruises.

Introduction.
This chapter consists of brief explanatory descriptions of methods in general
use for making the various joints, and in the manipulation of tools and material.
When the work is of such a character as to need special appliances and
processes, such as veneering

and marquetry, they are dealt with in a separate

and described are those generally used
in good class work, but it must be pointed out that they vary somewhat
according to the training, shop, and individual experience of the worker. At
chapter.

the

The methods

illustrated

same time they are essential beginnings in the production of sound, clean
and substantial furniture. The chapter is in sections, as follows
General Workshop Practice, (b) Carcase Construction, (V) Door Making,
Drawer Work, (e) Curved Work.

fitted,

(a)

(d)

Remarks on Procedure

in

Hand and Machine

Shops.

Commencing

with the design of a piece of furniture, the foreman or draughtsman " sets out,"
i.e., makes a drawing of the job, either on stiff paper, or upon a i-in. pine board,
called a " rod."

This

"

setting out," together with a " cutting

54

list,"

viz.,

list

WORKSHOP PRACTICE AND CONSTRUCTION

55

all sizes full to allow for working and

marker out," who selects and cuts out the " stuff,"
which is then given to the cabinetmaker to proceed with the work. Each piece
is marked to correspond with the numbers on the cutting list, and the section of
each piece is numbered upon the drawing. In machine shops the cutting list
is given to a "marker out," who chalks out all the stuff upon the boards and
The stuff is then taken
planks, numbering each piece to correspond with list.
in hand by the machine foreman, who superintends the cutting out and planing
up.
A "setter out" is employed who
marks the prepared material to length,
and also gauges mortises, tenons, &c,
according to the machine capacity of
the shop; and when the machining is
completed, the material, drawing, and

of material required in
fitting

are

cutting

list

handed

making the job

to the

"

are placed in the

cabinet-

maker's hands to complete the job.

Marking Out.

The

preliminary

chalking or marking out of

material

Thumb and

i. Marking out
needs very careful attention, regarding
economical arrangement, suitability as
to soundness, uniformity in colour between the pieces of stuff, and the direction
of grain and figure.
When large boards are to be marked, they should first be
roughed over with a smoother or " Bismarck " plane, carefully faced, and the
cutting lines produced in the following manner
First, with a piece of whitened
whipcord or twine, held on the mark at each end, andjquite taut, and then gripped
about the centre with finger and thumb, raised I or 2 in. and then released.
This gives a perfectly straight and clear white line. Second, if the boards have

with

Rule.

a straight sawn edge, a rule held between the

may be

thumb and fingers of left hand

used as a gauge, and lines drawn with a pencil parallel to the edge,
see

f.

1.

The

method is to
mark points upon
the stuff, and connect them with
lines drawn with a
straightedge and
third

pencil.
2.

Marking out Shapes.

for

Allowances
Working and

The allowance for working when marking out for machine cutting
Fitting.
and planing should be J in. full extra width. This is allowed for the saw cut,
and an additional ^ in. for planing and fitting thus a door stile set out 2 in.
All stuff should be marked, as rail, cross
wide, would be marked out 2\ in.
rail, drawer front, &c, or numbered to correspond with the cutting list and
drawing. When marking shapes and brackets, cabriole and other curved legs,
they should be marked out from a template, as shown in f. 2, called in workshop
lancaiacfe " one in the other."
;

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

56

Sharpening and Setting Saws. A full description of saws is given in

Although the spacing and pitch of the teeth vary in
the chapter on " Tools."
The following
different types, sharpening and setting is exactly similar.
-

description of a hand-saw, for instance, will therefore be sufficient for

The blade should be

saw

purposes.

all

one with extra long jaws,

A three-cornered saw file is then
the teeth just projecting above the edge.
inserted between two teeth, and pressed lightly but firmly forward once or
fixed in a

filer's vice,

i.e.,

twice, taking care not to alter the pitch or angle of the teeth.

alternately from

filed

one

and then the saw

side,

To obtain the
maining spaces also filed.
outwards by tapping with the hammer and
The amount

set,

in

alternate

of saw.

towards the back, require

section

The

spaces are

and the

reversed,

"

saw

Hand and
less

set

re-

bent

are

teeth

punch, or with

of set varies according to the type

saws which diminish

is

set."

panel

than a

blade of equal thickness throughout.

I.

Ripping Stuff on Bench.

The

2.

Ripping Stuff on Stool.

used by cabinetmakers for cutting stuff lengthhand-saw, the joiner's rip-saw only being needed for
exceptionally thick stuff, or where it is more convenient to use stools than

Sawing.

wise

is

usually

tool

The method generally employed is to fix the stuff firmly to the

bench with a hand-screw or holdfast, f. I. The cut is then commenced by
making a short kerf with the saw held handle downwards, about three or
four strokes being necessary, then the position of the saw is reversed,
drawn lightly upwards for a short distance, and then pressed downwards
a bench.

in an almost upright direction

the length of stroke
blade enters the wood, until two-thirds of its length
;

is

increased

is

employed.

as

the

Care

taken not to exert much pressure on the downward stroke,

saw is liable to buckle and jar the hands on to the teeth. The
saw must be occasionally looked at from behind, to judge whether the cut
is square and
free from winding.
Should the sawn edges press together

must

as

the

be

WORKSHOP PRACTICE AND CONSTRUCTION

57

and bind the saw blade, a chisel or wedge must be inserted.

The saw
must be properly sharpened and set, or it will have a tendency to draw
away from the line. Ripping stuff on stool
is

illustrated in

f.

2, p. 56.

Cross-Cutting. The stuff is placed

upon stools or bench, and held firmly with

Commence

knee or holdfast respectively.

a cut by placing the heel of the saw close

to the edge, then draw the saw upwards for

a short distance, and push down very lightly,

care being taken not to withdraw the saw

when

is

it

brought into cutting

position

Commencing a Tenon

1.

again

should

it

Cut.

be held at an

angle of about 45 deg. to surface

of board.
Sometimes when crosscutting, the board will

commence

to split close to the cut with a loud

report

this

is

generally due

to

forced seasoning of the wood, but

sometimes indicates branch stuff,

which
has
considerably
more
"

spring

"

or

" life "

from the trunk of a

than
tree.

boards

To

pre-

vent further splitting, well cramp

2.

Finishing a Tenon.

the board near the cut, and

then

shear or cut the fibres altogether, by holding

the saw horizontally.

Tenons.

Cutting
used

general

for

The

tenon

tenons have to be made, a hand-saw

ferred.

The

saw

is

tenoning, but where large

pieces

is

pre-

must be held firmly

the bench vice, and the cut

commenced on

in

the

then saw diagonally towards the

above), afterwards ref.
1
versing stuff, and cutting downwards square
with the face edge (see f. 2). By this method the

end grain

shoulder line (see

3.

Use

of Shoulder Board.

first saw cut acts as a guide, and ensures greater

accuracy than when cut square right down. Very
small tenons are cut with a dovetail saw.
Shoulder Cutting. After the tenon cuts are

made, the beginner experiences some

cutting

with shoulder

line,

the shoulder board (see

line,

as

shown

in

f.

difficulty in

To

reduce this difficulty

he should place the piece on

the shoulders.

4.

f.

3),

and carefully

4.

chisel a

The saw may then be

Commencing a Shoulder

V shaped

placed

in

Cut.

cut against the

the channel formed,

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

53

and drawn backward, afterwards pushing forward with a light stroke. The
thumb placed against the blade assists to keep the saw upright (see f. i below)
the handle should be gripped firmly but not tightly, or the hand will shake, thus
In wide shoulders, place a straightedge against the
preventing a clean cut.

i.

Cutting a Shoulder.

2.

when making the

Sharpening on Oilstone,

This method should not be

not be obtained. Very
wide tenons and shoulders are worked with rebate and shoulder plane only,
the straightedge acting as a guide for rebate plane.
Planing may be roughly divided into four

line,

and use

practised

it

as a guide

cut.

mastery of the tool

long, or efficient

sections.
"

TO- SURC*Ctor-oiLSTorie-'

25"
TO-TAMGCnT.
OF^GRrtDSTOne-

First,

Bismarck

"

will

Roughing up

Angles

for Grinding.

and

true,

Fourth,
scraper and

glass-paper.

The

with

Second, Jack
planing, used after roughing to reduce stuff in
width or thickness with a greater degree of
accuracy before trying up. Third, Try planing,
for finishing surfaces

3.

stuff

before marking out.

and

Smooth

and edges perfectly straight

fitting
and jointing.

general

planing, before finishing with

of cutting action, slope of

handles, and pitch of irons vary according to the particular uses of the plane,
scientific principles

but the general methods of grinding and sharpening are common to all.
To Sharp and Set Plane Irons. The jack or trying plane is firmly

WORKSHOP PRACTICE AND CONSTRUCTION

of irons in

left

hand, and resting

the screw with a wide screwdriver.

59

upon the forepart of bench, then turning

Apply a few drops of oil to the oilstone, and

it

downwards, with the right hand, assisting with the left hand,
the stone, and rub to and fro nearly the
whole length.
as possible moving in a parallel direction,
at an angle of about 33 deg. to oilstone surface
an undulating motion, which
causes a round bevel, and necessitates frequent
grasp the
f.

iron, bevel

2 opposite.

Then apply the iron to

The iron is kept as far

grinding,

is

thus avoided.

angles at which the iron

Fig. 3 illustrates the

is

held

when grinding

and sharpening; the grindstone should revolve

in

a direction

away from

grinding irons or chisels.

the operator

slight

when

burr

is

1.

Pair of

Winding

Strips.

caused by the rubbing of iron upon oilstone,

and the iron should be turned over, held quite flat upon the stone, and rubbed
Then wipe with shavings or cotton
slightly to remove the "true" or wire edge.
waste, and whet the iron by drawing it across the palm of hand, each side
alternately, or upon a buff strop.
To test for a keen edge lightly slide the
ball of the thumb along, and it will be found to grip smoothly.
Convexity of Cutting Edge. Jack plane irons are sharpened slightly conBismarck and roughing planes more convex. Trying, smoothing, compass,
vex.

2.

Testing a Board with Winding Strips.

rubbed off (see f. 4).

are
sharpened
quite straight
plough
irons
Bullnose, shoulder, rebate, fillister, and
working.
ensure
easy
corners,
which
square
care being taken to produce sharp,
iron
is said
beyond
cap
the
iron
projecting
of
amount
Set of Irons. The
according
which
varies
between,
the
distance
to
to be coarse or fine, according

and panel planes almost perfectly

to the texture of the

wood.

straight, with the corners

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

6o

To
the

Set the Iron.

slot,

The screw should be placed in the hole and drawn along

thumb and

tightened with

and adjusted close

finger,

(the distance varying from

to cutting

^ to TV

in.,

edge

thus reduc-

ing the splitting action of the iron upon the wood,

the greater distance for soft woods), and finally
the screw tightened.

Setting the Plane. Place the heel of plane

on forepart of bench, the left hand holding the
i.

plane in a sloping direction, insert plane iron,

pressing it with thumb against throat, adjust for

Face Mark.

set or projection of iron beyond sole, and

judge by glancing along the sole, then place
wedge in position, and tap home with a
hammer the wedge must not be driven too
tightly or it will force the plane hollow.
Should the rim project too much, tap the
button and then wedge again.
;

Planing Up.
winding, called
follows
2.

Use

of a

First

To plane true and out of

"

trueing up,"

proceed

as

remove rough surface with

"

jack plane and

traverse "

{i.e., plane across

exceeds 15 in.), then plane
lengthwise, testing it with edge of plane across the board
if either hollow or round, light will be visible at the centre or
edges accordingly, indicating the high parts. The trying
plane is then worked in the direction of grain, removing
the superfluous wood, until a flat surface is produced,
which is tested with winding strips, f. 1, p. 59. Winding
strips are pieces of hard wood planed quite parallel, with
white sights let into one piece. Place one at each end of
the board
then, standing about a foot away from the
near piece, lower the head until the eye is level with the
edge of strip, f. 2, p. 59, and observe whether both edges
lie in the same plane
if this is the case the lines

Cramp Rack

Support.

the board,

if it

Marking Stuff for

Jointing.

are parallel.

When

the stuff

is

twisted, opposite

corners of the strips appear high, indicating that

more planing

is

required diagonally to produce a

After planing diagonally, finish

with strokes right through the board, which, if quite
true, will allow the iron to bite or grip throughout
flat

4.

Placing the

Stuff.

true surface.

the whole length.

mark

is

then applied,

above, called a face mark, which suffices to

the face side, and also indicates the

Squaring the Edge.

the

"

"

trued " or

Shooting

"

shot

"

edge.

and squaring the edge usually follows

facing up," a straightedge square with face side being produced.

bench

f.

show

The

supported with a rack, f. 2, a few shavings are

removed with jack plane, and the trying plane is placed on the edge, the left hand
stuff

is

fixed

in

vice,

WORKSHOP PRACTICE AND CONSTRUCTION

grasping fore front and fingers on
slipping off the edge.

I.

sole,

61

acting as a guide which prevents the plane

Slightly raise the heel of plane, and

Testing a Joint with Straightedge.

2.

draw backwards

Shooting Joints on Thin

Stuff.

is behind the end, then press forward the whole length

edge is round, commence planing at the centre if hollow,
remove stuff from each end, and then in
both cases take off fine shavings the whole
length.
Edges above 4 ft. in length are

until the cutting iron

of joint.

tested

If the

for

accuracy with a long straight-

edge, and also with try square on the face

side.

Jointing".

When

jointing, the pieces

are arranged on the bench in order, bearing

in

mind position of heart side, direction of

and grain, and uniformity in colour

figure

between them.

Fig. 3 opposite illustrates

the correct arrangement of stuff with heart

same direction, and also the

marking cross lines below
numbers, to show position when glueing up.
grain

in

method

of

Position
4 opposite indicates position of heart
Proceed to shoot face
edge of piece marked 1, then insert the second piece in vice,
and shoot the edge, place both edges together, and test
across face sides at both ends, with a straightedge.
Any
irregularities in the joint will be at once apparent, and may
be rectified by taking fine shavings from the high side of
Cramped joints should be shot slightly hollow.
edge.

Fig.

for Glueing.

grain in jointing.

Winding
winding, and

Joints.

when

Sometimes the jointing

stuff

is

in

this is the case, test with a straight-

edge about the centre of boards only

above), planing
Position when
be observed that
Drying.
one end of the board is hollow, and the other end round.
When glueing up, hand-screw a cleat at each end, then cramp in centre first, and
then at each end, when the joint should pull up quite flat.
Jointing Thin Boards. After marking as described previously, place one
piece on shooting board, f. 2, number upwards.
Shoot the edge with the plane

joints until both faces are in line.

(f.

It will

62

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

on its side. The second piece is then shot number downwards. This is called
under and over." The bevel formed on each piece, due to unequal projection
of plane iron, and inaccurate shooting
board, thus counteract each other.

"

Glueing Rubbed Joints.

I.

Cramping up on Bench.

the

bring

They can be
dry
and

(see

of

Marking

for

placed

4, p. 61,

f.

position

into

when

against

which

position

incorrect

bearers

Method

stuff

again.

Grasp the top piece at each end, and

rub to and fro steadily. The strokes
will gradually shorten as the air and
expelled, and finally cease as soon
are
glue
coincide, as when first marked.
lines
as the

Jointing up Thin Stuff.

2.

To glue

up rubbed joints, secure one piece firmly

in bench vice, and lay the other edge
against it, forming a blunt V (see f. 3,
The glue should be thoroughly
p. 61).
heated, and of such consistency as will
prevent it breaking quickly into beadlike drops as it falls from the brush.
Well brush the glue over joints, and

bearers

until

illustrates correct

boards

of

against

drying), the weight of boards

second diagram partially opening and

breaking the joint.
in the

Dowels.

Cramping
bearers

Joints.

Place two

the

bench, well

across

glue joints, and fold over in position

4.

Stop Gauge on Dowel

a cramp

centre,

Bit.

f.

is

above.

then applied at
If the joint is

shot slightly hollow, one cramp

sufficient.

Tap

the joint with a

hammer

is

until

both pieces are quite flush or level. Thin stuff

is planed slightly hollow, and cramped between
iron stops of bench, with a weight on them to
prevent springing, or, if a large number of joints
require glueing, improvised cramps as in f. 2,
small pins preventing buckling.

Dowelled Joints.
f.

Correct and Incorrect Length

of Dowels.

square

Fix

both pieces as

in

across at intervals of about

then gauge lines in centre of edges, the

intersections being pierced with a marking awl,
and then bored with a dowel bit. The stop
gauge fixed to dowel bit, f. 4, determines the

9
5.

3,

lines

in.,

depth of dowel hole, which should be about 1 in. Should the dowel fit tightly,
reduce by driving through a dowel plate, or tooth with plane. The dowels are
glued into one piece, and cut off to length,

filling

the holes as

shown

in

f.

5.

WORKSHOP PRACTICE AND CONSTRUCTION

63

Badly fitting dowels cause indentations to

appear on the wood, by the contraction of
air

glue.
They are especially noticewhen the material is polished.
Ploughing a Tongued Joint. The

and

able

main parts of a plough are the " skate,"

" fence," and stop.
Set the plough with
in. below the
edge of skate, and turn the thumb-screw to
regulate depth of groove, tightening the
side set screws to prevent it working loose.
The wedges are then slackened, and the
1. Method of Holding a Plough.
stem tapped at either end until the distance required between fence and cutter is
obtained, then tighten wedges and again test carefully. The plough is held as
in f. 1 above, with wood fixed as shown, the driving power is obtained with the

the iron projecting about .^

^TOWWr^

ftfft

l|1|1
!

2.

3.

Board

for

and working backwards, and

held

quite

Cross Grained Tongue.

Planing Tongues.

4.

right hand, steadying the tool with the

left.

ili!l!

Feather Tongue.

Ploughing commences at the front,

The plough must be

then right through to finish.

steady during

this operation, or a rolling

motion will occur, and the

groove be irregular.

Tongued
Cross

Joints.

tongues,

f.

made by shooting

are

2,

5.

Commencing a Rebate.

6.

Ploughing a Large Rebate.

the end

of a thin board of hardwood, then gauging

off pieces about

duced
f.

3.

in.

wide, which are re-

to thickness in the

Feather tongues,

f.

4,

tongueing board,
are cut lengthway

of the grain, and are seldom used in cabinet

work.
Proceed to shoot joint as previously explained for rubbed joints.

7.

Stiles

Plough

Hand-screwed together before

Marking Mortises.

the grooves, as described from face side.

Glue cross tongues into one

joints should be

drying.

warmed

piece, finish

glueing,

Badly fitted tongues have a similar effect to

and are also unsightly on the end view.

in thin stuff,

and cramp together. All

more rapid
bad dowelling, particularly

before glueing, ensuring close joints, and

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

64

Rebating. Rebates are formed by gauging lines upon face side and edge of
stuff, and chamfering away the corner, f. 5, p. 63, then a shoulder is cut with chisel,
which enables the rebate plane to obtain a start,
finally rebating to the dotted lines.

ploughed,

are

f.

6,

and

Very large rebates

finished with

rebate plane.

A side fillister used when a number of similar reThis is set with screws and
bates require working.
bottom, a spur attachment
and
side
fence upon the
cutting.
This spur
cross-grain
facilitating
on the side
is

Setting a Mortise Gauge.

1.

must project slightly beyond the corner of the

ragged edge

iron, or a

will result.

Mortising and Tenoning ProporStub and through mortises and

tions.
tenons are about one-third the thickness
of stuff, or rather more than under if the

mortise chisel

not exactly one-third

is

the thickness of wood.

be

hand - screwed

The stiles should

together,

mortise lines squared across

pencil.

in

Shoulder

marked with

lines

f.

and

7,

the edges

on

rails

are

striking knife or chisel, re-

turning the lines

Through mortise

all

round the

rails.

lines are returned

on

the face side and back edge.

Setting the Gauge. The mortise

may fit easily between the points,
above; loosen set screw of head, and

chisel
f.

tap the gauge stick until the points coincide with a chisel
in

mark previously made

centre of edge, tighten the set screw,

and gauge between the mortise lines. A

then fixed in bench stops, f.2. Commence the cut at centre of mortise, working towards the near end, removing the
core as you go, then reverse the chisel and

stile is

2.

Mortising and Testing with Square.

If through mortisbeing executed, cut half way through

from one side, and then reverse the stuff. The
core is removed with a core driver, viz., a
piece of hard wood 9 in. long, rather smaller
than the mortise, driven through the hole.
Stub
Clearing out Stub Mortises.
mortises are gauged for depth by glueing a

cut to far end of mortise.

ing

3.

Paper Gauge

for

Depth.

is

4.

Float.

piece of paper on the side of the chisel,

which indicates when the proper depth

out with a small

firmer chisel.

It

is

is

reached.

essential

for

f.

3,

Stub mortises are cleared

well-fitting work that the

WORKSHOP PRACTICE AND CONSTRUCTION

65

Fig. 2 opposite shows how to test with a try square,

usually sufficient to view the relative position of chisel and material

mortise should be upright.

but

is

it

when standing
I

at the near end.

Necessity for Upright Mortising. Badly cut mortises

prevent the rail lining up with the stile, necessitating paring
the mortise, and glueing a
veneer on the opposite
cheek.
Unless
through

~Q~~

x
9

mortises are cut vertically

Marking Dowels
a Butt Joint.

in

2.

tenon, which considerably lessens the strength of the joint.

may

float

Dowel Rounder.

from either edge, a shelf or

A
ridge is formed, which must be removed with a float.
cavity is thus formed between the opposite cheek and the

be made with an old

file,

softened in the

fire,

and

and afterwards hardened again,

4 opposite. When mortising very heavy timber, it should
be placed on saw stools, the workman either sitting astride
or sideways whilst working, to keep it steady.
Dowelling a Butt Joint. To dowel a butt joint, f. 1
above shows the position of dowels for material 3 in. square.
Mark diagonals with a marking awl, intersecting in centre of
stuff, gauge lines from face sides only, f in. and 2\ in. respectively from the edge, and where they intersect is the centre
Glue the dowels into one piece,
for boring holes.
cut to length, and round off ends with dowel
A V-shaped groove cut along
rounder, f. 2.
dowel with chisel, allows glue and air to escape,
and prevents the joint splitting. To cramp together long pieces of stuff, use iron cramps with
serrations or teeth filed up,
f.

3. Templates for
Dowelling Rails.

lengthening bar, or a piece of quartering with

and folding wedges.

Dowelling Rails into Legs. Fix the legs
together, and set out lines showing position of rails,
cleats

4.

prepare a zinc or veneer template to section of

3,

gauge centre

rail,

alter gauge,

boring points on end of

adding the amount of square
required to be left on leg when the rails are glued
in, and gauge legs between rail lines. Prick position
of points through the template, and transfer to rail,
pricking through with a marking awl, then lay the
template on leg, the gauge line in centre of template corresponding with gauge line on leg, and
prick through, then bore for dowels, which are
glued into rails first, and finally knock together.
Dovetailing is executed by two distinct
f.

methods.
tails

The

Pins.

line for

first

with an awl.

Marking Dovetails from

rail,

consists of cutting the pins

This

is

first,

5.

f.

4,

Cutting Dovetails

and

in

in Vice.

marking the dove-

a general rule in Continental workshops, but where a

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

66

number of

large

screw them

pieces require dovetailing,

together, as

x^\\^\N\\\\\\v\^\vv\\\\Vj

it

will

be found quicker to hand-

page, and

previous

cut the dovetails first.

Secret dovetail joints, which cannot be marked by this
system, are executed by cutting pins first, and this
in

f.

5,

method

will
also be found
more convenient when
handling very large carcase work.
Setting out Dovetails. The ratio between dovetail

Proportions for

I.

Dove

tailing;.

and pin varies according to the work in hand. Thus, in

drawer work, the pins are very narrow, and the dovetail
large, f. 1, a.
This makes a strong joint, and is not unsightly or cumbersome.
Carcase dovetails that are concealed by plinth or cornice have the pins cut larger, the
ratio of pin and dovetail being 1 3,
Again, cistern
1, b.
f.

dovetailing required to resist the heat generated

when

soldering the lead lining, have both

and dovetail equal

may then occur is evenly

throughout the whole case, f.
Angle of Dovetails.

distributed
1,

The

cutting dovetails to obtain the

amount of strength from the

c.

angle for

maximum
may be

joint

It will be found
in 6 or 1 in 8.
advantageous to cut exterior dovetailing,
such as drawers, instrument cases, &c,
where they must have a neat appearance,
1 in 8, and
the heavier types for carcases,

either

2.

pin

any shrinkage which

Obtaining the Slope.

bases,

and

chests,

in 6.

To

obtain the bevel, set out

a line square with the edge of a board, divide into six

or eight parts as required, erect a perpendicular one
division long,

make

and

set

the bevel as

shown

a dovetail template to both angles,

f.

in

f.

2,

or

3.

Incorrect Angles for Dovetailing are illustrated in

3.

Dovetail Template.

-A

4.

/_]

Incorrect Angle for

Dovetailing.
5.

Marking Dovetails with Saw,

f. 4, where it will be noticed that a sharp angle considerably lessens the strength
of the joint, due to the short grain. To execute the joint prepare the stuff to width

WORKSHOP PRACTICE AND CONSTRUCTION

67

and thickness, shoot one end of each quite square, and gauge the thickness of each
piece on to both sides of the other piece.
Set out dovetails, cut with saw, and to
mark the dovetails fix as shown in f. 5 opposite, then draw a dovetail saw through
the cuts, pressing the teeth against the end grain.
When the dovetailed piece is
removed, the saw marks show exact position of
pins, which are then cut, care being taken to just
leave the mark upon the wood. Cut the shoulders
with dovetail saw, and with a bevelled firmer chisel
chop away the waste, cutting half-way through
from either side and slightly inwards, thus ensuring a close joint

Housed

when

dovetails are put together.

Dovetails.

Dovetail housed joints

may be shouldered on one side only or both.

To make the joint, 1, set out thickness of stuff
f.

and gauge I
Gauge depth also on

on

in.

per depth of dovetail.

B.

Mark

A,

ing slightly in

its

1.

Housed

Joint.

dovetail on B, taperCut with dovetail saw to

length.

gauge line, and remove core with chisel, finishing

the depth with a router or " old woman's tooth," as
Mark on each edge of B the width of dove2.
in
tail, cut the shoulder, and chisel or plane down to line,
This joint should
fitting and casing as required.
tightly
fitting
joints curve the
Very
fit hand tight.
housed piece.
Mitreing. This is the joint formed between two
f.

2.

pieces of

wood

Thus the

or moulding.

tion between any of the angles

in

f.

number of degrees
The term "right" mitre

are

mitres, although the

in

the

is

ap-

plied

when

"

Internal

are the terms applied

in

by the mouldings

the angle formed

90 degs.

"

and

A " exTeKtjfi_- mitrc,

BAG" INTERNAL Oft

bisec-

angles vary.

is

Cutting Housed Joints.

"

external

"

mitres

when the moulding meets

an angle or corner, and at a salient angle

respectively.

ternal" and

"

Fig.

3,

A,

B,

and

external" mitres.

C,

shows "in-

Diagram showing Various

Mitres.

To find the angle

of intersection between two straight lengths

of moulding, place a piece of moulding close
to the

edge of framing, and draw a pencil

along the edge, then repeat with adjoining

edge, and the point of intersection joined to
the corner of frame gives the correct angle
for cutting.

Where curved mouldings

inter-

sect with straight lengths, a curved mitre

necessary, or a straight mitre

is

is

4.

Use

of a Mitre Cut.

obtained by

obtaining geometrically a moulding section that will unite in a straight line.

See chapter on " Practical Geometry and Setting Out."
Mitreing Mouldings. Mouldings must be well damped before cleaning

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

68

up, thus swelling

must

"

follow on,"

by spindle

the minute ridges or bruises caused

The

scratch stock.

longest lengths possible should be used, and

i.e.,

cutter or

pieces

all

same order as when in the length

this avoids any possibility of faulty mitres,
owing to slight differences in sections.
Mitreing Panel Mouldings. Cut one end

be mitred

in

the

of length in mitre cut (see

f.

previous page),

4,

and then plane the mitre on shooting board,

1 on this page.
This represents an ordinary
shooting board with a hardwood block dry
f.

dowelled, having
i.

"

Mitre" Shooting Board

Attachment.

edges at an angle of 45 degs.

Place the trying plane

its

with the edge of board.

on

its side,

and hold the moulding firmly against

the edges of block, then plane the

mark moulding to length,

and shoot off to the mark. Large
mouldings for cornices, bases, and
double bolection mouldings cannot
be planed on the shooting board,
and are held in mitre block, cut
with block saw,
2, and planed
mitre,

2.

f.

Mitre Block Saw.

down

level with the surface.

It is

necessary with large mouldings to have a

accurate

very
trates

one

mitreing box.

for this purpose,

Fig.

and

it

illus-

3
is

a very

guide for a fine panel saw. The

is used for mitreing long
edges of boards which cannot be held in a
"
mitre block, f. 4. When mitreing " bolection
mouldings, a hardwood slip should be fixed
on board to prevent the edge splitting away
effectual

"

3.

Mitre Box for Large Mouldings.

donkey ear shoot "

during planing,

f.

opposite.

When

Mitreing Breaks.
round

mitreing

breaks in cornices, pilasters,

plinths, &c, a length of moulding, sometimes
not exceeding \ in. long, cannot be held
small

conveniently

in

ences between

block, because of the differ-

breadth,

length,

and

thick-

then prepared by screwing a piece of hardwood planed to angle

of 45 degs. at one end, and a correspondingly
ness.

4.

A Donkey

(see
until

points, close to the stop,

is,

level

f.

their

to

is

act

opposite).

heads

as

Pins

project

rest

are
T^

in.

for

plane

driven

from

in

the

The moulding is pressed on to these

and the moulding can be planed to the desired thick-

board, and are filed to a sharp point.

ness, that

piece

thick

Ear Shoot.

board

with both pieces.

WORKSHOP PRACTICE AND CONSTRUCTION

Mitreing Stuck Mouldings.

Stuck

69

"

mouldings on doors, framing, &c,

Fig. 3 below illustrates a brass combination template, and the wood temrequire a mitre template, which

is

"

either of brass or wood.

plate illustrated in

f. 4 consists
of a rectangular block,
rebated and then planed to angles of 45 degs. at each

end.

Fig.

illustrates

1,

p. 70,

shows the

stile

mitre template used

panel

for cutting the internal mitres of

moulded

panels.

Fig.

of a door, with a stuck moulding,

1.

Shooting a Bolection

Moulding.
which also forms the rebate to receive the panel.
Use of Template. Fix the stile in
stops or vice, and cut away the moulding
from mortise line. Then apply the template with its square edge against the right
or mitre line, and fix with G cramp.
A
paring chisel is used to cut the mitre, and
must be pressed firmly on the template,
2. Shooting a Moulding: Break.
and the shoulders thrust forward.
"
"
Scribing.
The term scribing applies to two different methods of fitting joints.
In the first case it is used to
counteract the effects of shrinkage in the mouldings of doors and screens, when
a mitred moulding would show an unsightly gap between the mitres.
The rail
moulding is cut and scribed to fit the stile, and in the

event of shrinkage taking place,

the moulded
the moulding

is

no unsightly mark
mitreing,

moulded

rails

not apparent,

and, when
polished previous to scribing the joints,

tion with mortising

than

its effect is

shrinking along the

rail

is

especially
in

Scribing

perceptible.

and tenoning

stile,

in

conjunc-

effects a stronger joint

when used

screens,

&c.

for connecting
simple illustration

the solid bar of a sash frame, f. 2, next page,

where mitred joints are impossible, owing to their
weakening effect other suitable applications are in connection with fitment cornices and dados, where a better
fitting joint is obtained more rapidly than mitreing (f. 3,
next page) and having the same appearance. The possibility of scribing mouldings is determined by the profile
or section
speaking generally, bold sections are most

Brass Combination
Mitre Template.

is

4.

Wooden

Mitre
Template.

suitable, but

members

it

is difficult

to

make

are of slight curvature.

a clean scribe

if

the

Undercut mouldings

of the Louis period, for instance, cannot be scribed.

The

second kind of scribing consists of fitting boards, furni5. Panel Mitre

ture, or framing to irregular surfaces, and is accomplished
Template.
by wedging the work in position, and setting it true to
marks or with a spirit level. A pair of dividers is set
to the greatest space between the job and the floor or wall, as the case may
be, and is then drawn along the surfaces, one leg following the irregularities
of floor, and the other making a line on the stuff, which is cut with bow saw

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

7o

and finished with spokeshave.

outside face, ensuring a close

The edges should be

and the work

fit,

slightly bevelled from the

then stand as previously

will

wedged in a relatively level position.

Sharpening Gouges. Gouges are divided into two groups, " Firmer " and " Scrib-

The "firmer" type have

ing."

the ground

bevel outside and are sharpened upon an oilstone, similarly to an ordinary chisel, with a

revolving motion to suit the curve, and the

burr " is then removed with a slip stone

"

curve and held quite

Unless the slip is bedded firmly

fitting into the inside

i.

fiat

Application of a Mitre Template.

upon

it.

inside the curve, a small

bevel will

result,

which affects the cutting action. Scribing gouges

are ground upon the inside, and sharpened by rubbing
a slip stone moistened with oil along the bevel, until
a slight burr

is

obtained

the gouge upon an

removed by laying
and rubbing lightly with

this is

oilstone,

"

a revolving action. Both kinds may be " stropped

upon a piece of hide to obtain a keener cutting edge.

A" Scribed"

Working Mouldings with

rounds." When a large quantity

Solid

Sash Bar.

"hollows

and

of mouldings are

be worked, it is usual to have them done on a

spindle machine, but a knowledge of handwork
mouldings is invaluable when short lengths are required with little delay. To work the moulding, f. 4
below, gauge the stuff to width and thickness, and
gauge lines coinciding with dotted lines in diagram,
the portions marked can then be ploughed from the
edge and the rebate worked. Complete the small
hollow by chamfering away and
hollowing
out
to

^^^f^^^^

-j

3.

Scribing a

Dado

Moulding.

with

small

round, and the astra:

i---

with rebate and

hollow plane. Hardwood mouldings, con-

gal

taining a

number of

small members.should

be
scribed,

and

first

worked

as de-

finished off with a steel cutter

fixed in a scratch stock.

Stuck Mouldings are worked with

moulding plane, the sole and cutter
shaped conversely to the section required. The English pattern moulding plane
is held at an angle indicated by lines on the forepart of plane, shown in
5,
a

f.

WORKSHOP PRACTICE AND CONSTRUCTION

7i

and must be held quite steady, or varying sections will result. French pattern
moulding planes are held quite upright, and are recommended. The use of
these planes is restricted to small ogees, ovolos, hollows, and broken ogees, seldom
exceeding f in. wide, but with repetition work planes of much larger sections
may be made to advantage. Fig. 1 illustrates the method of scratching small
mouldings when planes are not available, but its use is practically confined to
very hard, crisp wood, which lends itself readily to a scraping action. Fig. 2
is the section of a pilaster, showing scratch stock in position
and the moulding
formed. Curved mouldings are worked in a similar way, the butt of the scratch
stock being curved to fit the sweep or shape.

Scratching a Small Moulding.

1.

Use

of Rubbers.

To

2.

Scratching a Panel on Pilaster.

moulding with glass-paper,

quicker than the various members
of moulding section. The glass-paper is then held firmly round them, and rubbed
to and fro along the length, using finer glass-paper as the marks left by the plane
are removed.
All rubbers should be made 4 in. long, and kept in a prepared box, ensuring a quick selection of rubbers to fit any section. Curved

wood rubbers

prepare

(see

finish straight lengths of

3)

f.

shaped a

little

up with small cork rubbers, such as are illustrated in

and c.
Toothing. A toothing plane is used for roughening groundworks before
veneering, and also for removing inequalities in veneer, due chiefly to faulty
lengths are cleaned
f.

3, a, b,

The

cutting.

pendicularly

iron

is

fixed almost per-

plane

the

in

stock,

and

has a number of minute serrations on

the

side,

flat

which,

when

the

iron

is

OP

ground and sharpened, form a saw-like

cutting edge.

The

iron

is

sharpened

ordinary way, but the burr

moved on
it

is

is

in

the

not

re-

3.

Papering up Rubbers.

the oilstone, instead of which

driven into the end grain of a very hard block of wood, this sufficing to

remove the

burr.

When

toothing a groundwork or panel for veneering, the strokes are first

taken in diagonal directions from corner to corner, and straight strokes right
through the board to finish this removes the ridges left by the trying plane,
;

and the roughened surface materially

is

assists the cohesion of veneer.

also useful for flatting a veneered surface before scraping, especially

surface

is

composed of various veneers,

differing in thickness

Toothing

when

the

this applies, of

course, only to saw-cut stuff.

Scraping

is

the process immediately following the

"

smoothing up

"

of

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

72

material, previous to glass-papering.

To

scraper

is

a thin,

flat

piece of steel

both edges quite square.

Rub down the edges on oilstone until all file marks are removed, leaving a
Then lay the scraper upon the stone, and rub the
perfectly smooth edge.
burr off the flat sides. Transfer to bench as in f. 1, and rub down with a scraper
sharpener, afterwards holding it vertical, f. 2, with the sharpener held at an angle
Take a sharp stroke upwards, thus making a slight
of 85 degs. with surface.
The angle at which
burr or cutting edge with each successive resharpening.
4

in.

by

sharpener

in.

is

and TV

held

is

thick.

reduced

sharpen

slightly.

it,

then

all,

and give a

fine,

file

carefully sharpened scraper frequently

permits of about twelve resharpenings in

Scraper shavings are very

first

refiling,

&c,

is

repeated.

finely finished surface before glass-

papering.

Hard woods only are scraped, but oak, having a prominent silver grain
must be papered up after smoothing. A scraper removes the softer
material, and leaves the silver grain above the surface, which is very unsightly
when polished.
figure,

1.

Use

of Scraper Sharpener.

Glass-paper

is

made

in

2.

seven grades or

Vertical Sharpening of Scraper.

ranging from 2\ to 000 Flour

M. 2. The purpose
surface after scraping, but it should
sizes,

glass-paper, but cabinetmakers rarely use a stronger size than

is to produce a perfectly flat

be very sparingly used, good cabinetmakers seldom using stronger than F. 2.
Glass-paper is manufactured by covering a sheet of coarse paper on one side
It must
with thin glue, and sprinkling with minute particles of sand and glass.
be used quite dry, as when in a limp condition the glue is clamp, which causes the

of glass-paper

glass-paper to clog.
is

To

clean off pine or white

used, and rubbed diagonally

any wood

all

strokes

must be

wood

and across the grain

in

for a painted surface F. 2

but for polished surfaces

the direction of the grain.

in

First scour the stuff

with a piece of F. 2 placed round a cork rubber, size 4 by 3 by 1 in., taking care
that no loose ends are left, which scratch the surface and round off the sharp
edges, then rub down with ll, finishing with No. 1 or Flour paper.
In framing

and doors the muntings are papered right through, then the rails, and finally
the stiles, afterwards rubbing with a circular motion over the shoulders, and
finishing with straight strokes until all marks are removed.
Very soft or spongy
material should be sized first, thus securing the loose fibres which would otherwise
rise up and tear, but the rubber should not be moved too rapidly, or the glue will

WORKSHOP PRACTICE AND CONSTRUCTION

become softened

in

the glass-paper, and cause

it

The

to clog.

73

special treatment

of inlaying in pearl, ivory, metal, &c, will be dealt with in a succeeding chapter.
Screwing and Nailing. Screws are used in cabinetwork for fastening the

work together carcases, fittings, &c, and are made of both iron
and brass, with round and flat heads. For fixing locks, hinges, &c, brass screws
are usual, but oak work demands the use of brass screws, owing to the secretion
of an acid which corrodes iron, and causes a black stain to appear in the
various parts of

surrounding wood. When boring to receive screws, a nose-shell or gimlet bit

is used, boring in the case of a 2-in. screw about ih in.
deep, but, of course, no hard or fast rule can be laid
tasticfefcsacSXSXS;
down for timber of varying texture. To fix metal
plates to wood, bore the entire length of shank, and
the screw will worm its way into the side of the hole
securely round-headed screws are generally used for
I. a, b, Brass Screw Cups
fixing metal work.

=4

To

obtain a flush surface the material

is

Lath Screws.

counter-

sunk to receive the screw head, which, when driven

home, is quite flush with material. Brass cups arc used in work that is required
Lath
to be detached frequently, such as fillets, beads, &c. (see f. I, a and b).
screws, as the
partitions

name

suggests,

f.

I, c,

are for screwing into the laths of plaster

where ordinary screws would

split

the laths and prevent a secure

fixing.

Bradding and Pinning. Although nails and brads are not used to any
in good cabinetwork, their use is sometimes applied to various jobs
The various kinds
outside furniture production, executed by cabinetmakers.
extent

are French nails, round, square, and elliptic in section,

B-C
9D

l-J-K-L-

2,

f.

They may

A, B, C.

be driven in almost any direction without previous boring and without splitting the wood,
the head
unless near the edge of a board
ends are roughened for greater holding power,
and they are used chiefly in rough case work.
;

Jn\

Sizes vary from

wrought

nails,

f.

without boring

to

2,

in.

D, E, F,

their use

long, but cast

may
is

and

also be driven

chiefly for fixing

skeleton framings, &c, to receive fittings or

V

panelling.

Various Nails and Pins.

These

wedge-shape
and
drift " towards

nails are rather

in section as well as tapering in length,

have a tendency to " draw " or "

counteracted
the wide edge, f. 2, M
by inclining the nail in the opposite
direction before driving.
When nailing the ends of boards together, the nail
points should incline towards each other in pairs, thus forming a kind of
;

this

is

French panel pins are both round and elliptic in section,

Although
the latter type are not much used, sizes range from
2,
mouldings to painted works they do not require
2
in.,
used
for
fixing
f to
boring, unless in hardwood, when a hole is made with bradawl about threesimilar
French brads,
fourths of their length.
2, J, K, vary from i to f in.
uses to panel pins. Veneer pins, f. 2, L, are really thin pieces of wire pointed

dovetailed joint.
f.

G, H.

f.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

74

at

one end, used

are

left

veneer during the process of laying with cauls they

from stuff, and withdrawn after the veneer is laid.
previous page, are for fixing enamelled and gilt mouldings,

for securing

projecting about

Needle points,

f.

2,

I,

-J

in.

without previous boring, and snapped off level with surface.

Preparing Surfaces consists of filling any cavities or imperfections in
the wood, such as are caused by the removal of loose knots, &c, before
A stopping composed of litharge and glue
veneering, painting, or polishing.

they are driven

in

is
is

best,

but a mixture of glue and whiting, or glue and plaster,

either should be well pressed into the hole whilst

effective

and allowed to project beyond the surface to allow for

shrinkage whilst drying, and then levelled down. These mixtures
apply only to veneered or painted work polished work must
have any holes filled with inlays of a similar wood, but it must
be clearly understood that stopping of any kind is unsatisfactory
in polished work, and should only be resorted to when rendered
absolutely necessary by such circumstances as the concealment
of screws for fixing, and then only in inconspicuous positions.
Pelleting is an effective method
a piece of wood, with the
hot,

direction of grain as indicated in sketch,

is

turned to the given

sunk below the surface, and the pellet glued

Method
leting a Hole.
in and levelled off when dry.
For larger holes diamond-shaped
inlays are necessary.
Cut to shape, lay over hole, mark round
with awl and mortise to depth, glue the inlay in position and level off when
dry, a bevelled edge ensuring a close joint.
Removing Stains. Oak and mahogany which have been stained with ink
or by contact with iron can be cleaned by the application of a solution of oxalic
acid.
The crystals are allowed to dissolve in warm water, to which is afterwards
added a few drops of spirits of nitre this preparation applied to a stain will
remove it almost instantly. The surface should then be cleansed with water.
Raising Bruises. Bruises in furniture or boards can be raised by applying
a wet rag to them, which is heated by the application of warm irons, thus
of Pel-

shape

the screw

is

causing the fibres to swell into position again.

Carcase Construction.

Procedure in Making Setting out Carcase and Housed Dovetails

Glueing up and Testing -Construction of Plinths and Cornices

Definition of Carcase

Cutting

ditto

Faced up and Veneered Frames Making a Mitred Frame

Grooves for Tongues Glueing up Blocking Testing for Squareness
Mitreing Mouldings
Cornice Mouldings
Cornice Frames
Mitreing Facings
Glueing ditto Margin Gauges.

Varieties

of ditto

Cutting

Definition of Carcase.

"

carcase

"

consists of a "

divided with partitions to receive doors, drawers, &c,

chests of drawers, and stationery cases.

The example

box

"

which

may

be

as in wardrobes, cabinets,
illustrated in

f.

opposite

WORKSHOP PRACTICE AND CONSTRUCTION

75

shows a carcase used in combination with a plinth and cornice, door and drawer,
forming a hanging wardrobe, but large work, such as dwarf bookcases, library
break-front cases, and winged wardrobes, are composed of three or more carcases,
the number and size being determined by the design, size of
available material, and adaptation to easy handling during
So
packing and transport.
that in the execution of a
complete wall case or similar
fitting for a
all

building abroad,

the conditions stated above

Similar con-

are considered.

struction, however, with

slight variations
all

is

but

applied to

carcase work.

To Make
The

stuff

is

a Carcase.
planed up,

first

gauged to width and thickness,

and the ends hand-screwed together. The lengths and division are then squared across the

ed ges

i.

.,,

with a

Wardrobe Carcase,

try square,

and a large wooden square, f. 2, is used to return the

lines on both sides.
The top and bottom of carcase
are set out similarly, and the division, which is shorter,
by the difference in length between housed and lapped
All pieces are then planed to width, rebating
ends to receive the back, as shown in the working drawing, and the inside surfaces are cleaned up before gauging

dovetails.

for dovetails.

Setting out Dovetails. Gauge the length of doveon the ends, and also across the ends of both top and
bottom, then gauge their thickness on to the insides of
ends.
Square division lines across carcase
ends and set out the diminished dovetails
Gauge lines and 4^- in. from
as follows
front edge between division lines, this space

tail
2.

A Wooden

Square.

representing the length of actual dovetail,

the remainder of division simply being

housed into end

Cutting a Diminished Dovetail.

this

forms a strong

joint,

but frequently divisions, &c, are dovetailed

the whole width. Set out dovetail as in f. 3,

removing the darkened portion with a

chisel,

undercutting side a to form a

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

76

a tenon saw can then be inserted and the cuts made right across
pare away core with a " firmer " chisel and finish to depth by routering

dovetail

ends

away with an

"

old

woman's

Gauge and

tooth."

ends, carefully test sockets, and

cut the dovetails on division

until the division drives

fit

home hand

tight.

Set out the dovetails on carcase ends, with a small dovetail back and front
(refer to f. I, b, p. 66), thus securing a close joint at shoulder should the ends have
a tendency to work hollow on the outsides.
tails,

chopping away

the sockets.

To mark

bench, inside face upwards, and the end

with awl as shown in

is

Place ends on bench and saw dove-

the top and bottom, either

placed exactly on gauge

laid on
marking

is

line,

The lines of dovetails are left on the stuff after

method also applies to secret lapped and
This
sawing.
joints which cannot be marked by drawdovetail
mitred
dovetail cuts.
After marking cut the
through
saw
ing the
shoulders with saw and remove waste between dovetails,
then knock carcase together dry, and if satisfactory pro-

f.

4, p. 65.

ceed to glue together as follows

up. An

should hold the ends

edges down, with the division glued
i. Tongueing a Mitre.
the top and bottom are then glued and
into position
striking with a hammer a hardwood block
by
driven home
for squareness measure diagonally with a
To
test
placed across the dovetails.
opposite corners, i.e., diagonals, are
between
when the lengths
thin lath or rod

Glueing
upon the bench

assistant

face,

equal, the case

is

quite square.

Construction of Plinths. So many and various methods are in vogue for

constructing plinth and cornice frames, that only two can be dealt with in this
chapter these are characteristic types, and reference to the chapter on " Carcase
Work" will show the reader a great number of varied examples. Plinth frames
are constructed either of (a) solid wood, (/>) groundwork dovetailed and faced
Where a
up, or (c) dovetailed and veneered.
;

solid

plinth

required

is

the joints at front

corners are either plain mitred and blocked

secret mitre, dovetailed, or tongued mitred

and blocked.

Plinths that are faced

up are

usually dovetailed, and a thin |-in. facing of

figured

wood

is

mitred

round the pine or

through dovetails

whitewood groundwork
are used which, though shrinking somewhat
after glueing, do not affect the outside appearance, such as would be the case in a veneered
2. Glueing up a Tongued Mitre.
the contraction causing the
groundwork
veneer to show distinctly the shape of doveFor veneered plinths the joints must be similar to those
tails when polished.
;

used for a solid plinth frame.

To Make a Mitred Plinth Frame.

Plane up

and gauge to
and
also
one end of
width and thickness. Set out full length of front plinth
rails
and
shoot to
Square across the length of side
side rails with a set mitre.
all

stuff true,
rail

WORKSHOP PRACTICE AND CONSTRUCTION

77

mark. Square back rail to length for diminished dovetail, making the width equal
to width of side rail plus moulding thickness
this obviates the necessity of gluefilling
piece
at
back
between
the
moulding.
Fix one end of front rail
ing a
plinth
in mitre block, cut with block saw, and shoot down level with block, and repeat with
the remaining mitres then place two mitres together (see f. i opposite) forming
a right angle, permitting the use of a marking gauge to mark position of tongues
;

which are cut with dovetail saw and

if the rails do not
exceed 6 in. in width, but if above
Set
that width a plough can be used.
out diminished dovetail for the back
and fit together this should set back
about I ft. from ends of rails, to perchiselled to depth

-J-

mit of scribing over skirting, if necesBlocks are then glued as shown

sary.

f.
2 opposite, which when dry are
hand-screwed together with mahogany
I. Section through a Cornice.
or oak cross tongues inserted in the
grooves, then glue the back rail between the ends, and square up as with carcase, and when dry mitre round the
moulding, one end of which is glued first, then the front, and the return end

in

rail last.

Cornice Frames are almost identical with plinths

the back rail

is

lapped

dovetailed flush at back, equalling in width the side rail plus thickness of frieze
moulding the diagram, f. I above, is a section through one end the frame
;

is

through dovetailed at front corners, and the frieze is formed by glueing a

facing upon the framework, thus also forming a rebate to
It will be noticed that the
receive cornice mouldings.
cornice mouldings project above the framework, this is to
allow for dustboard, which is screwed in position and
After the framework is
levelled off flush with moulding.
dovetailed, glued, trued, and toothed up, the facings are
mitred and well warmed, then hand-screwed in position.
When dry level off at bottom and finish to true width with
shoulder or iron rebate plane then mitre round frieze

moulding and glue blocks about 6

in.

apart as indicated

mitre and glue smaller part of cornice into position, following with
in section, f. I
Cornice frames made of solid hardwood
the large piece, hand-screwing as shown.
one or two of these
correct position
in
require a margin gauge to glue moulding
;

along the frame, f. 2, thus causing a perfectly equal

frieze, facilitating speedy execution of the work.
On cheap work cornice mouldings are "pitched" and fixed round the
In a like manner a plinth
carcase with blocks, &c, on to a frame as above.
chest of drawers and so
of
a
front
and
ends
the
"planted"
round
piece is
and cornice frame
plinth
loose
The
carcase.
of
the
a
fixed
part
becomes

gauges are placed

at intervals

represent the best and most convenient forms of construction.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

78

Door Making.

Example of Wardrobe Door Setting out Shaping Rail Fitting Together Mitreing
Glueing
Setting out
Testing: Five-Panelled Door
Moulding Glueing up
of
Methods
Doors
Rails,
&c.
Glueing
Barred
Fitting
Cross
up
Frame
Centre
Forming Bars Mitreing Mouldings Jointing Stars Use of Templates Framed
and Rebated Door with Curved Corners Setting out Shaping Rails Rebating
Long and Short Shoulders Glueing up Routering Circular Rings for Corners
Curved Mitres in Mouldings Flush Doors Laminating Cross Clamping Mitre
Clamping Slipping Edges Veneering.

Preparing a Wardrobe Door.

The five illustrations below show various

Their construction embraces the principles applied to all kinds
Fig. i represents a wardrobe
of doors which are straight in plan and section.
door with a glass panel. After preparing the stuff, hand-screw the stiles together,
and set out divisions for mortises on inside edges then fix the rails and square
types of doors.

Diagrams

illustrating

Various Types of Doors.

shoulder lines across, returning them on both sides of each piece gauge lines for
gauge mortise
the rebate, which, in this case, is equal to width of moulding
and tenon lines cut and saw ditto, and prepare a template from the drawing
to mark the shaped top rail, cut with bow saw, and finish with files and glass;

paper work mouldings and rebates as described on p. 70. Then place the pieces
on bench, and mark the stiles and rails as f. 1 opposite, fix one stile in stops
if
as shown, and fit the head rail, testing across the shoulder with a try square
the shoulder requires shortening on one side, proceed as shown in f. 2 opposite,
repeat with bottom rail, and if
until it lines exactly with the surface of stile
both are fitted truly, they will be out of winding one with the other. Cut the
mitres as shown in f. 1, p. 70, and again test if true, with shoulders well up, or
" tight," place two bearers upon the bench, out of winding with each other
glue mortises with a pine stick and tenons with a brush then knock together
and cramp up on the bearers. If the door is well fitted the cramps may be
removed directly after the door is squared up it is then allowed to dry, preferably in a hanging position.
Stuck mouldings when used as above are usually
;

polished before

"

mitreing."

WORKSHOP PRACTICE AND CONSTRUCTION

79

Five- Panelled Door, f. 4 opposite. The stiles, rails, cross rails, and centre
frame stuff are all marked for mortises, tenons, and length then gauge on the
Rebate the
rebate, mortise and tenon line, and cut all mortises and tenons.
inside of centre frame, and mitre together as shown in f. 3 below, finally glueing
up after the addition of hand-screwing
blocks, somewhat similar to those used
plinth frame, the mitres to be
in
tongued up before glueing together.
;

When

quite dry the rebating

pleted on

all

is

com-

the pieces, and the short

centre

rails fitted into

first,

following on

with the others, each being tested separ-

1.

Use

2.

of Shoulder Plane.

3.

Fitting up a

Fitting

Door Frame.

up the Centre

Part.

the centre panel is fitted in the centre part, so that the cramps
do not strain the framing and cause mitres to spring.
Barred Doors, f. 2 opposite, are executed by two distinct methods. The
first consists of fitting a board inside the rebate after the
door is glued together, and setting out the moulding lines
upon the front, f. 4 alongside. Then the mouldings are mitred
The
to the given lines and shapes, glueing the mitres only.
"
door is then laid face downwards on the bench, and " slats
or " bars " are fitted into the grooves at the back of the
moulding, stub mortised into rails and stiles. Corners are

ately for truth

afterwards strengthened by glueing a piece of thin calico or

about 2 in. long where the bars meet, this is concealed

by the glass " beads " when the door is complete. Second
method The frame is set out inside the rebate with slips
and a striking knife, the slips equalling the distance from

silk

a second mark, ^ in.

width of the stub mortise,
a succeeding bar the bars or slats are then

the frame corner to inside of bars

distant from the

and repeated
fixed

in

for

first, is

made

Procedure in
Barred Doors.

4.

position, halving

the diagonals, glue and

for

fit

them
the

if

possible, or

dovetailing the angles.

mouldings on face

side,

Vee

cutting mitres with

8o

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

template,

f.

below.

All mouldings in both cases

must be polished before

mitreing.

In this case, it is
Panelled Door with Hollow Corners,
5, p. 78.
assumed that the frame is rebated on in the inside of face, with a moulding
glued round which projects about in. to receive the panel (see f. 2 below).
This is perhaps the best construction for doors of this kind, because if the
moulding is " stuck " on the stiles and rails, carving is required
to finish the corners, but when separate mouldings are mitred
round, the hollow corners are obtained by having a " circle
or ring turned, and cut into four parts for the corners.
It will
short
shoulders
to
have
long
and
on
the
rails
be necessary
of
These are obtained by setting out the mortise lines
this frame.
on the edges of stiles, and shoulder line a, b, f. 2, at each end of
The long shoulder a is returned on the front of rail, and
rails.
b upon the back then proceed to cut mortises and tenons, fit and
glue frame together, after shaping and rebating the stiles and
I. A Moulding
rails
when dry, the door is bevelled off, and, in order that the
Template.
projection of moulding above the surface be uniform throughout,
it will be necessary to router the rebate from the face side.
Prepare a router,
f. 3, by screwing
together,
and
insert
a
-in.
plough iron
of
wood
two pieces

set the iron, allowing it to project just the required depth of rebate, and scratch
or scrape the superfluous wood away if the fitting of the door has been carefully done, only a few shavings need be removed. Glass-paper the face of door and glue
mouldings in rebates, the mitres being curved to
f.

^=vZ)
2.

obtain a clean intersection.

Flush Doors. The construction of

Rebated Frame with Moulding.

f.

3, p.

may

be either by " laminating," " cross clampIt is not usual in

ing," or "mitre clamping."
flush veneered doors to frame the groundwork together, owing to the shrinkage
of panels, and consequent splitting of veneer. When a groundwork is laminated
or clamped, shrinkage does not split the material.
For a laminated door glue
78,

either three or five thicknesses of

wood

together, called "three"

each layer
in

case of

the

layers

are

running

Depth Router.

in

and "five

ply,"

in a cross direction,
" five

placed

ply,"

i.e.,

three

with the grain

the direction of length

and two across, placed

and well glued together in veneering press
when dry the door is planed up, and the edges
slipped, and veneered on both sides.
For clamped doors use well-seasoned
timber, and either "cross clamp" or "mitre clamp" the ends, the latter
3.

of door,

alternately,

method making the best job

then veneer both sides as for laminating.

Flush doors were largely used by Chippendale, Hepplewhite, and Sheraton,
as this method gave the widest possible surface for decoration as well as the
opportunity of making the most of good figure in veneer.
;

WORKSHOP PRACTICE AND CONSTRUCTION

81

Drawer Work.

First Method of Drawer Making Preparing the Stuff Fitting the Front and
Back Cutting the Dovetails An Alternate Method Glueing up Testing for
Squareness Slipping a Drawer Working the Slip Fitting the Bottom Slotscrewing same Necessity for Munting in Large Drawers
Fixing the Munting
" Bead and Flush " Slipping.

Before dealing with this subject, a few remarks are necessary regarding the
construction of the carcase or framing respectively. The whole depth of a

drawer must accurately fit the opening, and it should gradually tighten as it is
withdrawn. To effect this the carcase is made slightly larger at the back, both
in length

and width.

In the case of a nest of drawers, or a pedestal, the carcase

is

made

is

also left slightly full at the back.

wider, and the runners slightly thinner at the back.

rubbed upon a

Wax

itself

or similar substances need not be

well-fitted drawer.

First Method.

Proceed by

first

planing

all

scraping and glass-papering the inside surfaces.

mark the

The drawer

pieces as

f.

I,

the drawer stuff to thickness,

Shoot

all

bottom edges, and then

left-hand side

and back also.

Plane the sides to
width until they slide into the carcase,
then withdraw, and pin them together
and shoot to length. Now carefully fit
the drawer front until it enters the
opening about J in., as previously
mentioned. The back is left slightly
longer, and is marked as follows
Place it on the bench, then withdraw
:

the front and

lay

it

1.

Marking Drawer Front and

Sides.

upon the back,

with the inside faces together and the bottom edges

marking awl along each end, saw

off the waste,

shooting board, just leaving the mark on the

level.

Draw

sharp

and plane the sides upon a

stuff.

Gauge

the thickness of

on the front and back, then on the lap on

the end grain of front, and thickness of back in
the sides.
Set a marking gauge to in., and gauge
The front
line for bottom edge of back in sides.
3
is then grooved with a No. I plough iron T ^ in.
To cut the dovedeep, and f in. from the edge.
tails, space out and mark with a dovetail template,
put both together in vice, and cut the dovetails at
sides

r
WIDTH- OF-

2.

Drawer Side

Dovetails.

both ends, see f. 2, then proceed as explained in dovetailing.

An Alternate Method is to fit the front only into the carcase or framing
entering about J in., and marking the back as before.
Both sides are pinned together, and the bottom edges shot true, and then squared to length.
To complete

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

82

in preceding method.
When glueing together,
each case carefully glue the dovetails on one side, and lay flat on bench, glue
sockets in drawer front and back, and place in position, pressing down with the

the drawer, proceed as described

in

hands, then glue the other side, place dovetails in the sockets, and tap each
joint with a hammer until quite close.
To test for squareness, use a 12-in. try square, placed against the front, and
press the corners of the drawer until the sides coincide with

may be measured,
both lengths from corner to
corner are quite equal in length.
The drawer is now ready
for slipping, viz., pieces of wood, shaped to the sections shown

the steel blade.

Or

the diagonals of drawer

and the drawer adjusted

until

in
I, A, which are glued into the sides to receive the bottom.
These pieces increase the running edges of the bottom, and
greatly strengthen the drawer where it is mostly worn.
To work the slips,
shoot the edge of a iVin. piece of wood, and lay on the bench, fixing with
holdfast, and allowing the edge to project slightly over

Drawer

i.

Slips.

f.

the front of bench, plough the groove with a No.

iron,

deep, set T% in. from edge, and then round with a

smoothing plane and glass-paper, gauge entire width of

in.

and cut off with tenon saw. The edge of the stuff is
then shot again, and the process repeated. Saw one end
of the slip square in a mitre cut, and notch it to fit the
back, as in f. 2.
Where a number of drawers are made,

slip

they are placed side by side on the bench, and the

glued in position, securing two at once with small
hand-screws or clips. Drawers exceeding 2 ft. in length
should have a centre munting about 2 in. wide dove-

slips

2.

Fitting a

Drawer

Slip.

tailed into the front, rebated and screwed at the back (see f. 3)
this should be
glued and screwed exactly in centre of drawer, the dovetailed portion being
;

filled in

and

levelled off to the edge.

Fitting the Bottom.

square one end, then

Shoot

the front edge and

mark and

shoot

to

length.

Work
"

3.

bottoms home, and glue two small blocks underneath,

which prevents the drawer bottom shrinking out of
the groove
care must be taken not to overturn the
slotted screws, for shrinkage may occur, and the

Rebated Drawer
Munting.

bottom
for

is

small

likely to split.

drawers.

a f-in. bevel on three sides, testing with a

mullet."
After preparing for slot-screwing, drive

Fig.

1, b,

The bottom

illustrates a
in

this

case

"bead and
is

rebated

flush slip," suitable

into

the grooves,

shouldered underneath at the front edge, and on the top for the end edges. A
mistake frequently made in this method is to rebate on one side only, causing

an unsightly joint on the inside at the front.

A flush bottom to a drawer adds to the flat surface room, and
is a distinct advantage over the method shown in f. 2.

in this respect

WORKSHOP PRACTICE AND CONSTRUCTION

83

Curved Work.

Building up Curved Rims Preparation of Templates Cutting the Segments Fitting same
Band-sawing to Finished Shape Curved Drawer Fronts Cutting
from Solid Stuff Glueing up Wide Carcase Ends "Flushing off" Curved Fronts
Upright and Landscape Curved Panels Bevel Jointed Curved Planes
Circular Carcases
Glueing up Planing to Shape An Alternate Method for
thin Panels
Ogee Shapes Drying Building up the Core Toothing and Veneer
ing
Use of Steam Box Curved Framed Doors Dovetailing the Rails
Dowelling same Glueing up and Testing Levelling off Building up Galleries
and Slats Preparing the Template Veneering the Curve Alternate Method
with Core Rounding the Edge Building up Slats, Cores, and Templates.

So many

different

methods are employed

in

the production of curved work

that only fundamental principles can be treated in this section.

number

of examples illustrating these principles are given, and a thorough understanding

of these will assist in working out problems of single and double curvature.

The

latter kind is so involved with practical geometry that examples are

given in the chapter which deals with that subject.

Kidney, oval, or circular table rims are usually built up with segments, or
i.e., in layers.
The work must first be set out on a board, showing

laminated,

the thickness of rim, projection

and

of top,

fixing or connection of legs to the frame.

If

board is shaped to the top line, a template

thus formed, from the edge of which all lines

this
is

indicating
parallel.

projections

or

thicknesses

Supposing the rim to be 2\

will
in.

be

wide,

four layers are required to build the shape, the

bottom layer

is divided into four or more parts,

according to the shape and size of rim, and
the joints of the second layer of segments
fall
exactly between those of the previous

layer, thus

1.

Preparing Curved Templates.

overlapping each piece, so that each

alternate layer has similar segments.

To Prepare the Segments, mark out on

board the joints of one layer in full lines, the next
in dotted pencil lines.
Roughly shape a piece of
|-in.

(see
2.

Segmental Building up.

whitewood
f.

above),

to outside line,

mark the

and pin to board

and measure

joint lines,

the distance of rim line from the edge,

a tee gauge to this

f.

1,

a.

Set

and gauge the whitewood

template.
Another tee gauge is now set to inside line of rim, and gauged as
before.
This process is continued until all the templates are marked. Then
number each to correspond with board (see diagram). Spokeshave and file the
templates to true shape, and mark out required number on f-in. stuff.
In
size,

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

84

in. outside the lines, and the rim bandBand-sawing

may be dispensed with by
completed.
marked
out and sawn, work to
segments
are
After the
true shape with circular plane or spokeshaves.
Fit the bottom layer on board, and pin it

cases these segments are cut

some
sawn

after glueing is
proceeding as follows

-,_

in position,
fit

layer (see
Building up Panels.

glueing the butt joints only.

and glue each segment

f.

2,

p.

in

Next

the succeeding

83) until completed, levelling

and repeating the same process

Remove the rim from
for each other layer.
outside of rim until
plane
spokeshave
the
and
or
board, withdraw the pins,
remove the superfluous
it fits the board, then tee gauge to thickness, and
wood.
Curved Drawer Fronts are cut from the solid if wood of sufficient
thickness is available.
Should a 9-in. front be required, two pieces are
glued together, and then band-sawn to shape. Sometimes very wide shaped ends are wanted in carcase
work. The best plan then is to cut the shapes from best
9-in. stuff, and glue them together, levelling off when dry.
The waste pieces are also glued up and used as cauls
i.

when

veneering.

drawers are

It

fitted

is

into

off

advisable
a

carcase

when

dry,

when
to

several

finish

the

curved
shape

by temporarily stopping the drawers so that

they project slightly beyond the rails, and then levelling
them down. This is called " flushing off." The stops
are then removed and set back, allowing the fronts to

correctly

form a small square.

Landscape Curved Panels. Upmade to any shape by bevel jointing

Upright and
right panels are
flat

of wood, and glueing them together, then

planed to shape with concave and convex-shaped planes (see diagram,

pieces

the)- are
f.

Jointing up a Circular Carcase.

above).

Circular Carcases are also built up in this way. A skeleton frame is

fitted to the shape shown in f. 2, and each piece or " segment " dry-jointed
Then glue all the
until the carcase is completed.

and bind round tightly with very wet

webbing, remove the skeleton frame, and thoroughly
heat the whole over a shaving blaze this has the
effect of softening the glue and drying the webbing,
which contracts and forces the glue out of the joints.
About twelve hours are allowed for drying, and then
the true shape is set out at each end, and planed
down to the lines with shaped planes.
An Alternate Method for curved panels where a number of similarly
shaped ones are required, consists of bending straight-grained mahogany and
veneering both sides at once between shaped cauls. This is the most
economical method, but it is practically restricted to stuff not exceeding
joints together

WORKSHOP PRACTICE AND CONSTRUCTION

7
T F in. thick.

For quick curves or ogee forms the

made up with thin wood, two or three

As an example illustrating
desired shape.

core

the

first

or " ground

method we

Prepare pine cauls to

3
tooth, size, and glue the core, pin veneer in position,
thoroughly heat the cauls, and put the whole together
with paper between and hand-screw down. If possible,
f.

"

"

work

thicknesses bending easily to any-

is

panel shown in

"

ss

opposite.

both

fit

will

faces,

take the

plane up,

leave it in the cauls for two or three days, so that it

can thoroughly set, and when the panel is removed it
should be screwed to curved bearers or clamps about
1 in. thick, which prevents casting whilst finally drying.
In cases where the curve is ogee shape (see f. 1

opposite) or too quick to permit this method, substitute

two thicknesses of thin

stuff for the core,

and

i.

Laminating an "Ogee"

Shaped Panel.
The landscape panel
proceed as described above.
shown in f. 1 alongside would be executed by preparing
cauls to fit both sides, and in steaming two pieces of bare {-in. stuff, the whole
being hand-screwed between heated cauls until quite dry six or eight reheatings
;

and screwing up are necessary, and then the core only is glued up. When dry, level
down any small kinks, and tooth both surfaces,
and veneer on both sides with the same cauls.
Description of Steam Box. This may be
improvised by procuring a large flat tin or zinc
tray about li in. deep, with a cupboard or box
2. Plan of Violin Case.
fitting exactly over the tray, and having a door
at one end
bearers are fixed inside so that the
stuff rests edge downwards.
This steam box is placed on a stove or other heating
accommodation, causing it to fill with steam, which renders the wood pliable.
Application of Bending to Curved Ends. There are many instances
where bending as described is used, viz., in semicircular ends of cases, chests, and caskets.
The
example illustrated is a violin case with curved

shown in f. 2. Prepare cauls for the

wide end, fitting both sides of shape, about 6 inwide
cut lengths of clean, straight-grained pine
I in. thick, tooth both sides, and lay in steam box
until rendered pliable, then screw between the cauls,
f.
remain for two hours
then
3, and allow to
reheat the cauls occasionally, hand-screwing together as before, thus absorbing and drying out the
moisture caused by steaming.
When quite dry,
Bending a Curved End.
well glue the inside surfaces, and hand-screw
again between the heated cauls, and allow them
to remain screwed up as long as possible.
The small end is proceeded with
in the same way, and straight lengths are tongued between them to complete the box, to which are then glued a curved top and bottom, and the
whole is then levelled off and veneered.

end, plan

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

86

Various curved
are used on table
and
Prepare a template of suitable thickness to the inside

Building up Galleries.
are constructed as follows

galleries

tops,

of gallery, gauge off strips of knife-cut veneer, and cross veneer one length,
which will be the inner or first layer. When dry, clean off. Pin down one end
to the

edge of template, and carefully stretch the veneer all round the shape,
joint," and also pinning down.
If veneer pins are used, they
are allowed to project slightly, so that the veneer can be pressed
over them, and pins withdrawn without damaging the veneer
the second layer is glued about a foot at a time, moistened on
opposite side, and laid down with a hammer
continue with

making a "butt

strips of veneer until the thickness

in

i,

A, alongside.

finally cross

B.

A.

f.

Then

is

obtained, as section

shown

allow to dry, level off and tooth

veneering with figured veneer.

Shoot the edge,

and slightly round the same when cleaning off.

Alternate and Cheaper Method is to first pin a veneer
down, and then glue pieces of cross-grained softwood down to form
a core, which is levelled down and veneered as before (see f. I, B).
Rounded Edges. If a rounded edge is wanted, glue thin cross-cut wood
to rim, level off flush with both faces, and round with file and glass-paper.
Waved Edges, f. 2, are set out and worked to shape with spokeshave,
and then veneered.
Circular and Elliptic Shaped Slats for barred doors are also built up by
this method, and practically any shapes other than
those mentioned are formed by glueing veneers
between cauls, as illustrated in f. 3, p. 85, but
-in. stuff only is used, which is cramped or handscrewed together.
2. Rim Edge Waved.
Curved Doors. The construction of curved
framing, panelling, and doors is made rather
To obviate
difficult owing to the cross grain tending to weaken the joints.
this difficulty, tenoning is almost entirely discarded in shaped frames, except
where the curve is very slight and the stuff will allow an almost straightgrained tenon
lapped dovetails and dowelling is therefore employed, the
use of which is governed by the work in hand.
Wide Rails in framing are built up
like curved rims, or cut from solid stuff.
The former method is preferable, and is
i.

cross veneer,

Sections of

An

Table or Tray
Rims.

stronger in

rails

3.

Various Panel Mouldings.

of

much

curvature, short

reducing the strength.

Stuck mouldings are not advisable in
work of this description, and rebated

grained solid

rails

framing with a "planted" or " bolection " moulding is most effective. These
mouldings (see f. 3), unless flat and small in section and curvature, must be
worked from the solid, but where circumstances permit of steaming and
bending, the wood should be bent and regulated before the mouldings are worked.

Veneering is necessary in most of the framing, owing to the unsightliness of

the end grain when polished. This is accomplished by levelling off the work after

WORKSHOP PRACTICE AND CONSTRUCTION

87

cramping together dry, when veneering the separate pieces, and glueing the whole
As this necessitates removing the cramping blocks, and re-glueing
together.
them, the frames are generally glued together, levelled off, and veneered (see
chapter on " Veneering "). To gauge the rebate
to correct depth, fix a piece of steel or plough
iron into a " router

tance and router

"

projecting the required dis-

away the extra wood.

The

example shown represents the curved end of

parting screen, 4

ft.

in.

high.

Sectional plan

The three curved

shown in
1, b, alongside.
rails would carry through in each case, dowelled
into the stile and outside munting, marked c,
the short muntings being dowelled between the
rails.
Cut a template of the curve, and make up
f.

rails, then prepare a curved template made

from the waste stuff, and fix a piece of hard
I. Elevation and Sectional Plan
of a Parting Screen.
wood, set to the short shoulder line upon it (see
f.
Mark points on the face, representing
2).
both long and short shoulders, and return them on the edges with this template
Mark
or bevel, gauge, and cut, then shoot in mitre block with shoulder plane.
position of dowels on all pieces, and bore with
dowel bit, gauge and work rebates for mouldings,
put together dry, and level off, then take apart,
glue together, and veneer, &c.
If the double
Rebating after Glueing.
shoulder is of such proportion as to render dowelling difficult, set out with butted shoulders, cramp
the frame together, and level off, then take apart

the

2.

Setting out the Shoulder.

and work the

rebate, finishing as before.

Curved Doors.

Although

the methods de-

curved framing and doors generally, there are

This is especicertain instances where dovetailing is employed to advantage.
ally the case in doors with simple stuck mouldings
on stiles and rails, as section in f. 3. Set out the
shoulder lines as described for " framing," and mark
the dovetails, cut these and also the shoulders, then
set a dovetail in position upon the planed end grain
of a stile, and mark with an awl, then cut with dovetail
saw, and chop out the sockets.
Extreme care must
3. Oblique Rebate on
be taken when fitting, or a winding door will result.
Curved Door.
To test for squareness, measure diagonally with a
thin slip of wood, and look across the stile lines to
judge if the door is free from winding, regulating the joints if necessary. It
will be seen from the section that the shoulder is not set out square with
the tangent of curve this would prevent the entry of panel.
scribed above are applied

to

CHAPTER

VI.

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP WORK.

Extension Tables

Telescope Tray Frame, and Dovetail Slide Dining Tables

and Leaf Extension Tables Elizabethan, Drawing, and French Extension
Tables Gate Leg and Framed Gate Tables Flap Tables
Revolving Tray,
Pouch, and Flap Work Tables Envelope, Pivoted Top, and Flap Card and
Chess Tables Billiard Tables, with Working Details Circular and Elliptical
Tables Adjustable Bed Table Chippendale Pie Crust and Tea Tables Hall and
Pier Tables
Nested Tea Tables Washstands Toilet Tables Kidney Dressing
Table Pedestal, Elliptical, French, William and Mary, and Chippendale Writing
Tables Curio and Occasional Tables--Cylinder Fall Writing Table and Secretaire
Shaving Stands Writing Bureau on Stand Welsh Dressers with details and

Circular

drawings to scale.

Introduction.

The

development of the table from the earliest types would be an interesting

if space would allow, for what is now the paper-hangers'
" trestle and board " was once a highly prized and richly decorated form.
Probably no article of domestic use has been subject to so many changes in shape
and make, and the following chapter contains some fifty odd applications of the
name. The term "table part" is also applied to the upper or drawer section of
subject to consider

a pedestal sideboard.

Extension Tables.
extending tables are illustrated and described
undoubtedly the "telescope" method
is
acted by means of keyed sliders working telescope fashion in each other.
The principles and workshop practice involved in tables on the slider
principle are general, and much of the description of the example illustrated
Referon Plate XV. applies also to the dovetail slide and tray frame.
ence to the plan shows the single sliders or " lopers " screwed to undersides of tops and connected to the framing
iron pins are fixed to those
underneath (see sectional detail), and they stop against plates screwed to the
outside sliders.
Dining table clips fixed in the grooved edges of sliders form
an effective stop for the double sliders, and also bind the pieces together (see
Various methods used

in

this

chapter.

for

The most used

When making the sliding part of table, well-seasoned,

wood should be selected, preferably teak or mahogany, the

also sectional view).

straight-grained

former wood combining good standing powers with a naturally oily surface.

Plate XV.

vie^. V/ITH-

T^BLE-TOP-

REMOVED

Enlarged- detail- of- sliders-

nra
^^ SHEWING- U5EOP-CLIPS-

1= IRON -STOP E> = I^ON- PLATE

C = CROSS* R/qiL-

SC^LE FOR^ELEVdTion* ^nD-PL^n

FROTJT

EL&V/qTIOri

METHOD

OF-

Dow-

ELi. mG-/qriD-KErinG;

EDGES- OF-LE4VES-

VIEW-

OnDER^TOP -S^HEri EVTEnDED

ri^LF- IDCH-

SCOLE'

TELESCorr. Dining Table,

[To face page

88.

Plate xvi.

wT]
2

^--BL

FtaR.T-

SECTlONflf

""-W'
o.ucwiiNn.ui.... Vtu,
SHEWINGMETHOD -OP

fl

Bolt |x

Tenon a"x

'/a"
|"

Cushion

1%

Slate bed
I'x6'l/ax2."

A Billiard Table, with Details

of Con- struction'.
[To face pge

Plate XVI.
ECTlONflL- VIEW

METHOD -OF
mrsG- R.AIU5 TO
IQ-

-t

I2x /a"

>ion2'x l"x'/a

Cushion l^g

l
-ATE BED

'x6'l/a"x"

Outside
FRflME

To face page

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

WORK

89

A template must also be prepared to length of sliders, and the top edge curved
about f in. from end to end. All the sliders are then planed to correspond
with the template, and when the table is complete, the curvature of bed will
All grooves for clips, and also the
counteract the sagging of centre part.
Plans show the method of
tongues, must be worked from the curved edge.
fitting the outside rails into the knee part of legs, so that when the frame is
Centre legs, mortised into the centre
closed up, there will not be open shoulders.
rail of bed, though not absolutely necessary in tables under 10 ft. in length, are
Patent extending dining table screws, manufactured by
certainly advisable.
Messrs Fitter, of Birmingham, are used for closing or opening the table.
Diagrams opposite illustrate the use of a double-action screw, which operates
from one end only. It is, however, generally advantageous to use a screw
operating from both ends, or, on large tables, two separate screws can be fixed.
The type illustrated always keeps the centre leg in the middle of the table, when
opened to any position. The plan shows the fixing of single sliders to framing,
and sliders screwed to tops, the end rails being pocket screwed to top. The
extra leaves are usually from 15 to 18 in. wide, and the sketches show methods
the former method being the best, is effected as
of dowelling and keying
follows
Upon completion of bed framing, all the leaves and both tops should
be cramped up, one upon the other, when the positions of the dowels (about
16 in. apart) are then squared across all the edges, and the stuff separated, centre
lines for boring are gauged from the top faces and the dowels glued into one
edge of each leaf; the dowels are best made of ebony or rosewood, and are
rounded off with a dowel rounder (see Chapter V.). When finishing the tops, all
;

the leaves are inserted and the screw tightened up, previous to carefully levelling

down with
tailed

rails

double-action screw.

proper distance apart,

of these pieces
is

about

and glass-paper. The fixed rails in bed plane are doveand screwed, the smaller rails are necessary to carry the
Gauge pieces at ends of double sliders are to keep them the
and are glued between and screwed through the length

plane, scraper,

up the side

11 in.,

is

and

from ii to 4
this

in.

The

overlap of sliders illustrated in plan

amount can be increased up

Billiard Table

to 18

in.

with advantage.

(see Plate XVI.).

production of billiard tables, and the reconstruction of

modern decorative requirements, has rendered this an
important branch of work, chiefly done by cabinetmakers. There has, however,
been a remarkable paucity of information regarding this branch, due probably to
Although the standard sizes
the very limited number of firms in the business.
vary slightly with various firms, the construction of the framework and fixing of

The

earlier

increasing

types to suit

wooden cush are alike, the efficiency of the table, however, depending largely
upon the rubber cush. These specialties are protected by patents, and used
The bed frame illustrated has 6-in.
exclusively by their respective patentees.
square knees, and the rails are stub-tenoned into them at the corners, and bolted
and also front sectional view facing this page). The bolt heads
and a turned button or stud is glued into the holes. The bolts in end

(see cross section

are sunk,

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

90
rails

up

are fixed lower than the front, in order to clear the front bolts

The

(see sectional elevation).

cross rails are of 4

by

2 in. stuff,

when

fixing

and are

also

double stab-tenoned and bolted. Hard woods are used for this framing, well
seasoned and bone dry. Legs are fixed to the framework by dowelling, or with
a strong screwed pin into the knee parts, similar to a piano leg.
The width of
front rails is determined by the design, but should not be less than 9 in.
The
slate bed, indicated by dotted line in plan, is 12 by 6h by 2 in.
Cut away for
Fillets are fixed underneath the slate at the edge to
the pockets as shown.
which is affixed the tablecloth. The wooden cush is built up and fixed to slate
as shown in enlarged detail, and can be made wider to suit any special design
Ends of
the projection of same above slate must, however, always be if in.
cush are bevelled at the pockets, carrying the same line as rubber. Brass
pocket holders are used, and screwed down in cheap tables, but invisible fixings
are general in good work
effected by bolts attached to underside of holder
lug.
These bolts are bored through the cush, and secured with nuts underneath.
The pocket holders are also made to tenon into the cush ends, this
;

presenting a neater appearance. 3 in. clearance must be ensured through the

entrance to pocket on the completed table, but the true shape of rubber cush
at the pocket cannot be accurately shown in a scale drawing.
It is rather

This work forms a separate and

making. The brackets shown at ends of rails
are frequently used so that the stub tenons can be made in the centre of knee
flatter in

form than the detail

illustrated.

distinct business in billiard table

parts.

A Tray Frame Table

(see

page opposite).

These tables are much simpler in construction than the telescope

arrangement, and can be made to extend to almost any length, according
The simplest form,
to the number of trays introduced into the framing.
and the one most commonly made, consists of one tray working inside the
outer rails with dovetail key tongues.
The example illustrated has two trays,
and its construction will be understood from the isometric sketches.
A
centre leg is also introduced (as with the telescope extension) which
supports the centre part when open.
A minimum overlap of the trays
is illustrated, and the rigidity of the table is materially increased when this
amount is added to, thus permitting the use of longer tongues. To ensure an
easy adjustment of the tongues the rails connecting sliders are dovetailed
up and screwed without glueing them. The sectional view through table
shows the inside tray made narrower, this is to permit of dovetailing the
crossed rails to the middle sliders. The method of lining up dining table
tops and leaves

is

also

illustrated,

under moulding or lining

wide, with the grain in

is

same

f-in.

glued to

it

stuff
;

is

used

for

these pieces are

direction as the leaves

and

of grain in lining up pieces must not be across the tops,

occurs,

splits

up the leaves

inevitably

will
is

illustrated

dining table facing

p. 89.

result.

The method

and described

in

the top, and the

cut about

tops.
or,

The

in.

direction

where shrinkage

of dowelling or keying
connection with the telescope

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

WORK

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

92

A Dovetail
The method

Slide Table

(see page opposite).

of extension illustrated in the drawings of this type

strong and economical.

Plans show methods of arranging the

sliders,

is

both

the inner

and outer pairs mortised and tenoned to the legs. Enlarged sectional view
shows the width of sliders. The inside is again made narrower for the cross
rails to dovetail into the middle pair.
The general principle of extension
is very similar to the tray
frame, and by the addition of extra pairs of
sliders and a centre cross rail to receive a leg, the table can be made to extend
to a

much

greater length.

castors on the legs

It

is

a general practice with dining tables to fix

these are of various patterns, ranging from an ordinary plate

castor screwed underneath the leg to special castors with patent bearings, the

use of the latter being desirable upon very heavy tables.

rollers

friction

prevent loose or worn

Plan shows position of screw, but

the work.

Small wheels or

bearings which affect the stability of

it

should be understood that

before setting out extension tables of any kind, the screw, or

regarding

it,

must be obtained.

These are made

in

actions to suit the requirements of dining table makers.

"

thurmed

"

legs

full

particulars

a variety of sizes and

Square moulded or

are largely used in these tables, and the working processes

involved in them are described elsewhere.

Turned and carved

legs are features

of Elizabethan, Jacobean, and eighteenth century designs applied to

modern

dininer table work.

Leaf Extension Tables

are

spacious

|5/

94).

with drop leaves, which, when

working under the top, providing a fairly
The one illustrated is
surface if required for dining purposes.
circular in plan, but the shape may be varied to an infinite

The drawings on
raised,

(see p.

supported

0%.

p.

by

94

illustrate tables

sliders

numDer f

forms.

Points requiring attention in this job are

un der-railing and slides. View under top shows a bracket

^^^Tiotv^r^
'UT1DER,- FRAME
screwed underneath the top, acting as a guide for the sliders
These sliders are also cut into the rails,
(see projected view).
and work against each other. They are made of straight-grained
stuff clamped at each end, and levelled off flush with the rails. Section of underrailing is shown in sketch above, and this is halved together with mitred beads,
and connected to the legs by mortise and tenon joints.
The other views illustrate the further application of the above construction
to an ordinary extension table.
This table separates in the centre of frame, and
when extended, the leaves are inserted between the fixed tops, and rest upon the
slides.
A centre leg is advisable and necessary as an extra support when the table
is fully extended.
All sliders should be made slightly round on the top edge (as
is the case with all extending tables on the slider principle) to allow for sagging
when the leaves are in position, and heavy weights are placed upon the table.
This is accomplished by planing each slide to a prepared template, curved about
Grooves are also worked from this edge to receive the
jV in. in its length.
* ne

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP WORK

93

94

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

key, see sectional detail.

WORK

If these sliders are well fitted,

95

the fully extended

curved slightly from end to end, which is sufficient in some cases to

Owing to the separation of
raise the centre leg a short distance from the floor.
the tops at the centre of table, the supports for the top are fixed to each front,
and each piece is grooved to take a short tenon or tongue mortised into the
This
brackets, thus keeping them in position when acting with the table open.
one is not opened with dining table screws, owing to the leaves preventing their
table

is

The

use.

sliders are

stopped with the tongues.

A Welsh Dresser

(see p. 96).

This sheet of drawings represents a typical form of Welsh dresser, embodying several characteristics of this style, such as the turning, shaping, and the

The stand or bottom part

by tenoning the bottom between the legs, trenched
or housed into the ends, and rebated and screwed
panelled door and drawer fronts.

into the centre partition.

Fig.

construction under the top.

illustrates

four drawers with the fronts rebated

To

made

in

one

piece,

the

This stand contains

out with moulding, as shown.

are similarly treated.

is

and panelled

The cupboard doors

construct the top part,

1.

View showing Bracketed

Carcase Rails.
housed dovetailing is used to connect the shelves
with ends and partitions, whilst the carcase top is
lapped dovetailed into the ends. Partitions are pinned into the carcase top and
wedged. The three sets of panels in some cases are formed on one long drawer
front.
A modern treatment for a similar dresser is shown on p. 97.

A Gate Legged Table

(see p. 98).

The drawings on p. 98 show two examples of gate legged tables. They

made with numerous variations, which, however, are based on these types.
The first example is an adaptation of an old Jacobean table made in oak, containing a drawer (see plan), which also shows the movement of

are

the gates, which are formed by tenoning a top and bottom

The

hand

rail

leg
between the two
with
a
|-in.
iron
stretcher,
lower
and
the
table
rail
fits between the
2.
pin bored through rails into this leg. The left inside leg is halved
A smaller
into the frame, and also the stretcher, as shown.
kind, used for tea tables, made from 2 ft. 1 in. to 2 ft. 4 in. high, has a ridge
In either case
or moulded edge round the top, called a " pie crust top " (see f. 2).
When screwed
the leaves are connected to the fixed top with rule joints.
together the complete top is temporarily clamped on the underside, which
inside legs (see elevation).

keeps

it

firm

when moulding,

shaping, or turning.

right

96

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

WORK

97

Front and

side-

elevations

///
'

,/

ifii

Scale
VIEWS

for.

Detail- of=

HANDLES

(W

6 Feet

HflMMEFtED

IR.ON
HING-E

DETAILS -DRAWN
HALF- FULL- SIZE.
Design for a Dresser Sideboard by

Mr

John Hooper.

98

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

H
o
w

<

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

A Frame Gate Table

WORK

99

(opposite).

This table, illustrated opposite, is much simpler in construction than the

though not so decorative. The plans show two frames acting as gates,
hinged to each end, and stopped when open by two blocks glued on the underside of leaves.
Alternate treatment of ends, veneered and inlaid, are shown in
the elevation, and with strapwork carving recessed about J in. from the face side.
The centre frame is dowelled between the ends, whilst the frieze moulding is
housed into the outside surfaces and returned on the edges. Owing to the end
grain not affording much strength for pocket screwing, the centre top should be
well dowelled into the framing.
other,

A Draw Table

(see p.

ioo).

This method of increasing the top surface of a table by means of sliders is

probably the earliest known, the first examples belonging to the Elizabethan
The framing is first put together, with under-railing as shown, a wide
period.
centre rail is then screwed to the framing, and tops are prepared as shown in
the elevation the stuff is selected from well-seasoned boards, and to ensure permanent flatness, mitre clamps are mortised and tenoned to each end in the case
of an especially large centre top, it is advisable to make a four-panelled flush
framed top. When setting out this table, make the combined thickness of top
;

I.

Semicircular Tray Fitting.

width of bearer under centre rail. If the rail

may be lifted slightly and
The method of connecting bearer to tops, and arrange-

and bearer when closed equal

is

now

cut

away

to the

to receive the bearer, the centre top

the leaves pushed home.

ment of sliders,

2.

is

shown

in plan.

One

pair of sliders has a rail dovetailed into

keeping them quite parallel, and guides are fixed to rails for the
outer pair.
As previously mentioned, the centre top has to be slightly raised
when closing the table. This is effected by tenoning wooden forks or prongs
these act as keys, ensuring the top
into the top, passing through the centre rail
remaining in position. Then card table centres are screwed to the top, and are
Examples of an Elizabethan and also a
loosely bolted underneath the rail.
Dutch "Draw" table are shown on p. 101. They were measured and drawn
their ends, thus

from the actual work.

A Revolving Tray Work Table

(p.

102).

of Italian walnut inlaid with snakewood, can be also used

semicircular trays are attached to panelled
as a side and occasional table

This

table,

made

ioo

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

Details of "

Draw "

WORK

Tables.

io2

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP WORK

fronts,

the

103

which revolve upon pivots

trays

let into the rails.

Although the space in
of sufficient size for the storage of fancyalternate treatment of trays, fitted for stationery, &c, is

rather limited,

is

it

work requisites. An
shown in f. 1, p. 99. The turned

is

legs are adaptations of " ring

and

ball "

so largely used during the latter part of the seventeenth century.

turning

Both the

veneered and constructive parts are straightforward, and do not require a lengthy
explanation.
It will be seen from the plan that the trays are attached to the
framed fronts, and the pivoting is accomplished as illustrated in sketches. The
pivots are fixed to the inside surfaces of rails (see

f.

2, p.

99), with hole plates

sunk into frames. They are placed in position when glueing up, and the top
secures them, the semicircular boxes being screwed in afterwards.
The diagram
shows the frame projecting slightly beyond the ends of box, facilitating clearance
a bullet catch fixed under bottom rail (position indicated in diagram) proves an

effective stop.

An Extending Flap Table

This

is

movement

(Height

ft.

in.

to

ft.

6 in.) (opposite).

table, worked upon the gate leg principle.

The
boxed frame, two opposite corners of which are through

an extending

consists of a

the other corners tenoned into

J>/lEW-OF- HOUSED
on fly rails, working upon knuckle
LEO-flTO
joints (see plan), open to angles of 90 degs., and when
closed, shut over the dovetailed angles.
Elevation shows
the depth of box, and also length of knee part on leg,
which, when housed (see sketch), leaves a supporting ledge.
Both fly rails are stopped under the leaves by boring
dowels into the flaps, and allowing them to project about
The rigidity of the table depends entirely upon
\ in.
accurately fitted knuckle joints.
When working the top,
both rule joints should be worked and hinged together,
clamps are then temporarily screwed on the underside to keep the tops straight
whilst shaping, moulding, and cleaning up.
This type of table is also made
circular, elliptic, and oblong in plan.
dovetailed together, with

the legs.

Two

legs

Work Tables
The

(p. 104).

on p. 104 are the most typical forms in this kind of

and judged from a utilitarian standpoint, the box or well pattern is
distinctly the best.
A drawer is provided at the bottom, and, by slightly altering the curved opening under folding tops, a sliding tray for small articles can
be introduced. This kind also lends itself more readily to decorative treatment,
having the additional advantage of being made entirely of wood, and thus not demanding periodical renewing of silk linings. The example shown was executed
at the Shoreditch Technical Institute, and was made of rosewood, with inlays of
pear and purple wood. The various views show constructive details, the main
features of which are the sides, formed by tenoning the rails into legs, grooving
all pieces to receive the panels.
The bottom also is grooved or " housed " into the
furniture,

tables illustrated

io4

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

WORK

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

io 5

ends tenoned at front and back. This bottom is faced up with pencil cedar, and
the interior is lined with the same material, the legs being cut away to complete
Drawers in these tables can be made to withdraw from either side,
the corners.
and when this is desired, the bottom should be framed up with a J-in. panel and
slotted to receive a piece screwed to drawer bottoms, utilised as a stop for the
drawer.
It will be observed that the top consists of two hinged flaps supported
by pivoted brackets, thus necessitating the use of an underframe or top. The
brackets are cut and fitted into the rails, and an iron pin is bored through each
bracket into the top rail, and also into the underframe
when this frame is
dowelled down to the carcase, it supports the brackets when open, and also
receives the hinged flaps for which link joint hinges are used.
These give a
level surface when the flaps are open (see chapter on " Brasswork " for description
;

of this hinge).

A Pouch Work Table

(opposite).

The diagrams show various views and details of the above type, which are
made in decorated Sheraton, Adams, and Empire style. The stand, into

chiefly

CONNECTION -OF
.

UPR.IGMTS, -TO- RlM

&

which the lower ends of uprights are tenoned, should be cut

from a solid piece of stuff if a moulded edge is required, but
"laminating" is best for veneered
work. The rim is built up on the
" segment "
principle (see enlarged
detail), with a frieze moulding glued
on the bottom edge between the legs,
and allowed to project about | in. in
the inside to receive the pouch when
the rim is built up, it is levelled and
;

veneered, then set out to receive the

i.

uprights,

stub tenoned

into the rim as

shown

and housed
in

f.

enlarged detail shows the method of attaching the

inner rim should be turned up from a

"

I.

laminated

the solid bottom passing through opening of top,

The

silk to
"

form the pouch, and

piece of

stuff.

make diameter

To

this

ensure

of bottom

in.

than opening. A fitted tray is shown in f. 2 and rests upon the rim. This
The
is made by glueing several thicknesses of veneers round a circular template.
edge is afterwards veneered to conceal the joints. Care must be taken when
glueing on the bottom not to alter the shape, and it is advisable to glue this
less

on with the template inside the rim.

WASHSTANDS.
The washstand shown on p. 106 is probably the most popular type
made its construction is simple, and when properly put together, should
be a very serviceable, strong, and rigid job. The pieces forming the ends
run across, and are either tenoned or dowelled into the legs. The back
;

runs right through, either dowelled between the back legs, or framed together,

io6

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

FROP1T-

sect ion-

E1_E.VATIQI>

TOP- RAH.-

PLAH- ABOVESMELT -AMDUnDER-TQP

VIEW- 5MEWIHG'
ccnsTR^crion

OFTILED-BACKL

ALTERT1ATIVE
COrNSTRUC-TIOn-

SOME TRiC VIE^/ SnE^/lMG

CO^STRUCTlOri' AT- LEFT

lf>DQORM-AMin

ATIMG-ATID
CLAMPiriG-

A Marble Back Washstand.

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

when

screwed into rebates formed on the inside of the

is

it

WORK

for the top rail

is

shown

in

107

The

legs.

fixing

and tenoned, whilst the drawer

Cupboard bottoms are likewise tenoned into

plan, dovetailed

tenoned into the legs.

legs, with the intervening portion
screwed into rebates worked on the inside bottom
edges of ends and divisions, forming a flush or level surface underrails are

front

and back

The

neath.

tenoned

centre bottom

into

legs,

and

is

stub

screwed

on partitions, as with
cupboard bottoms. An isometric
sketch is shown on p. 106 illustrating the construction of one corner
with the drawer runner " housed "
into rebates

1.

P\ -

LOO&E BUSH

CURTAIN- R.OD

Thimble

or

Fitting.

"

trenched

"

into

the

with a small stub tenon

ends,

fitting

worked on inside edges of drawer rails. Corresponding grooves

are also worked on the runners to receive the dust-boards.
The span rail under
drawer is cut from the solid, and veneered in order to cover the end grain
(which would appear darker in colour when polished), and also to obtain a
richer effect by using figured veneer.
Two methods are shown of making
the doors
the first is " mortise and
into a groove

tenon mitred " clamping, which costs

more than the second method, i.e.,
laminating.
The cocked bead in both
cases is glued into rebates worked on
the edges, and secured while drying,
with clips, hand-screws, or tape bound
firmly round the door, and left until
quite dry.
The drawer fronts should be
executed as follows
First veneer the
centre part of each drawer front, and
when dry, cut margin with gauge or
scratch stock, then remove veneer, and
glue.
Set out the pattern with pencil
lines, and
cut with dovetail saw to
:

required depth, glue lines into grooves.

Trim level with edge of veneer, mitre

margin line round, glue in position,
and then lay the cross banding with
3. Detail of a Folding-up Washstand.
a hammer.
It will
be noticed from
the sketch that the cocked beads on
door are equal to the thickness of hinges, which ensures a neat appearance.
The top part is composed of a moulded frame with the frieze tongued
to the top

rail,

the shelf

shelf notch back at each

when

fixed concealing the joint.

When

end as shown, and screw from behind.

fixing the
Side brackets

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

io8

zt=.

HALF'
PL AH -OF 'TOP

SCAL

MALF.pLAn
urioeR-Top-

Types of Washstands.

SFCTIODAL- PLAIN-
THRc'- CUPBOARD^ OF *
CORH ER WASHSTAHD

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

WORK

are secret screwed to shelf, and also screwed from the back.

109

moulded base

mortised and mitred together, forming a frame, which is dowelled or screwed

Holes are drilled through the marble top, and the
to the brackets and back.
top part may then be firmly screwed into position from under the marble. To
is

ensure the marble top finding its correct place when fitting the job up, blocks
to the underside with plaster and glue, touching the corners of
framing, so that it will only drop into one position.
Locks are sometimes

are fixed

the drawers, but bullet or French catches are sufficient for the cupboard
For construction of curved drawer refer to chapter on " Curved Work."
The frieze is inlaid with box lines in a pattern, executing the curved grooves
for lines with flat gouges, or scratching with a file end round the templates
fitted to

doors.

prepared to the various curves.

The drawings shown on

page illustrate several types, with

both in design and application of
material.
The first example in Italian walnut inlaid with rose and greywood, with a three-panelled back, the centre panel of marble provides
a not unpleasant effect contrasting with the side panels, and differing from
the usual treatment of washstand backs, viz., porcelain tiles, secured with
varied

arrangement

in

opposite

the upper

part,

Marble brackets and tops are also shown in the drawings.

of this stand introduces no features needing special
mention.
Doors are framed up with panels veneered as shown.
A half
front elevation is given, showing a different arrangement in bottom part
with tiled top part, and a curtain attached to a brass rod. The pillars are of
turned wood, and the rod is secured by thimble fittings illustrated in f. 1, p. 107.
Backs of this character without side bracket supports, should have the stiles
brass

The

screws.

construction

extra long at the bottom, forming horns that can be attached to the stand
f. 2, p. 107).
This constructive principle is further illustrated in the
dressing-table with self-supporting top part on p. ill.
A half elevation is also

(see diagram,

shown of a washstand

in

oak, with curtains above and also a glass frame.

The

based upon a Sheraton example. A cupboard is

made by tenoning the rails between the square part of legs, the bottom being
rebated into rails and tenoned into front legs.
A shelf is pocket screwed
through the side rails, and curved doors fitted at the front. Fig. 3, p. 107, illustrates a fold-up washstand used where space is limited, such as in yacht and ship
cabins and offices (see also folding washstands in chapter on " Office Work ").
corner stand illustrated

is

A Kidney Dressing Table

(p.

m).

Kidney-shaped dressing tables are generally made in the Louis XV. style,
of oak and walnut, carved and gilt, or enamelled white.
Triple glasses being
a special feature of these types, the best arrangement for fixing them is to
mortise the uprights through the glass rim, and cut the wide rim away about
deep to receive the uprights, which are then screwed into the rim.
proportion of the housing and mortise has to be carefully considered, otherwise the glass rim will be weakened.
The plan shows the best
way of putting this together with dowelled joints the shaping is done after the
f

in.

The exact

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

no

segments are glued together.

The rim should be

cut roughly to shape, which

permits the cutting of notches to receive cramps during glueing.

When com-

be made corresponding with the line of top. The lines inside this shape, such as table rim,
glass rim, moulding on top, &c, will all be parallel to the edge of the template,
and when their projection has been ascertained, they may be gauged upon the
template with a tee gauge. To construct the rim, prepare separate templates
about i in. wide. Four will be required for the bottom layer, lettered A, B, c, D,
Mark out segments from
in diagram below, with E, F, G, H, for alternate layers.
templates, spokeshave to true shape, then lay in position and fit one layer on to
board.
This is temporarily secured by glueing at intervals with a piece of stiff
paper under the joints. The second layer is then fitted and glued down, each
segment overlapping the joints of the previous layer,
brickwork fashion, until the required height is obtained.
When dry, the whole rim is levelled off, sized and
veneered.
The legs are then fitted into rim as shown
in plan, and the stretchers tenoned into legs, halved at

mencing

to

make

a kidney-shaped table, a template should

first

the centre to receive the upholstered footrest.

When

these are properly fitted together dry, take apart and

cut

away

the rim to receive a drawer.

pieces into rim for the drawer to

a top and bottom

work

Then

dovetail

in (see plan),

with

back for the drawer front. Prepare the drawer front

from a piece of solid stuff, and put the drawer together. To obtain the sunk
panel, rout away the centre part with a scratch stock, or the job may be done on
a spindle machine, leaving a i-in. margin, and finished in the corners with a chisel.
Another method is to rebate the front, and mitre a slip in the rebate formed,
projecting above the surface of the drawer.
Compo or carved moulding is then
fixed into the angles.
The diagram shows the section to which the footboard is
made, with a rebate for upholstery. This is screwed through the stretcher from
underneath, and is finally fixed when fitting the work up.
A f-in. moulded top
is shown with a rebated rim holding a plate glass in position.
Silk is inserted
between the top and the glass, which is all secured by screwing the rim down
from underneath the top. For other types of dressing tables see p. 112.
rail set

A Cylinder Writing Table

This rather intricate

piece

of

(see p.

113).

cabinetwork includes a fall, circular in

Details of bar E are given in the chapter
and slides are attached to an iron trammel

section, operating a sliding table part.

Mechanical Actions." The fall

is slotted and works along a centre.
When the slider is drawn
forward, the fall is opened, and closed when pushed home.
A method of locking
which secures the fall, slider, and drawer simultaneously, is shown in f. 1, p. 114.

on

"

or bar that

a spring bolt let into the partition

is

out

it

B,

when

raises the spring bolt into the slider,

the bottom drawer lock bolt

and when the drawer lock bolt

is
is

down, A springs back into position indicated, thus freeing the slider. The
slotted bar is connected to both cylinder and slider, and also to iron plates sunk
into the ends.
Both ends are prepared to form grooves for the cylinder to run

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

WORK

yjJWJJJJJJ^-i

DETAIL- OFGLASS-RIM-

AHD TOP

5ECTIQH-OFUPHOLSTEREDFOOT- REST-

V////////S.

5ECTI0HALPLAM-OFGLASS- FRAMES

DETAILS

ELEVATIOH AMD- PlAIT

1"

III

A Kidney

Dressing Table.

2"

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

ii2

i .i

emd-view

1'

2'

3'
I

+'

si
I

FROHT- ELEVATIOn-

3CALE.'

Types ok Dressing Tablks.

FOR^ELEVAT 10 HS

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

Mmv^;.^ "'p:i''^&'
0

WORK

Ir 3

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

ii 4

in

by

attaching" curved brass slips near the edge, or

Then

at the edge, outside the cylinder.

by glueing

a three-sided piece

is

pieces of

work

attached to the

making a groove for the cylinder to run in. An alternate method

work grooves with a stock and cutter attached to a centre, also rebating
the end for slider (see front view).
When constructing the cylinder, it
insides, thus
is

to

may either be framed together or " coopered," i.e., several strips of straight
grained stuff are jointed to give the required curve, but for use with a slotted
bar, the former method is preferable, owing to its better standing qualities,
.

Pl.*=te.-

on

no shrinkage or warpage taking place. Interior

fittings are illustrated.
These are made quite
separate from the main carcase, and screwed on
to carcase ends, with packing pieces as described
in Chapter XII.
A stationery case is also illustrated in elevation and plan.
It is used when

&1-IDE.R-

the slider contains a horsed rack writing

flap,

the

construction of which will be understood from the

end sectional view shown, the pen and ink boxes

running underneath the stationery case. The
complete job is formed of three parts ( i) Bottom
table or stand (2) Cylinder carcase with drawers
Both ends of
above
(3) Bookcase top part.

View showing Method of Fixing

the Kneehole Brackets.

the cylinder part are

"

laminated," with a dove-

housed horizontal division rail, and lapped

dovetailed carcase top.
Rebates are worked on the ends at back, so that when
the carcase is dowelled to the table frame the whole back may be screwed in as
shown in sectional view. The bookcase is secured by screwing through the
carcase bottom.
To construct the curved kneehole, a full partition is used
between the long and short drawers, tenoned into legs and housed into ends,
while the angles outside small drawers are clamped and rebated together,
tenoned into legs, and grooved into partition. Brackets are mitred and tongued
together, glued in the corners, and the front flushed off and veneered (see f. 2).
tail

A Writing Table

(see opposite).

The example on p. 115, manufactured by Messrs J. S. Henry, Ltd., shows an

unusual treatment of the writing part.
A folding top is made, which, when
opened, releases a falling front, and discloses a fitted stationery case. The front
is supported by quadrant stays, similar to those used on bookcase " secretaires,"
and

is

lined for writing purposes.

large legs are introduced,

is

The

construction of work such as

generally to

make

this,

where

the carcase separate from the

Pins are turned into the legs, see enlarged detail of leg on p. 116, and
bored and glued into the carcase above. The underframing and feet are dealt
with in connection with a cabinet of the same period, illustrated on p. 165. This
constructive principle, viz., separate carcase, is again rendered necessary when
considering the centre cupboard, and it permits the carcase bottom to be carried
through in one length, rendering the fixing of pilasters at each side of door a comstand.

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

ftl ^
1

WORK

ii5

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

n6

paratively easy matter.

The

sectional view

acting between the bracketed pilasters

face,

case

shows the shape of the falling front,

made by veneering the

false fronts are

and glueing on a thin continuation of the inside pilasters. The stationery

of a simple arrangement, fitting into the recess formed by fixed top.

is

Alternate
tionery

treatments

cases

are

of

sta-

given

with

various other cabinets in ChapVII., and these could be

adapted to this piece of work.
Fig. i. shows the edges of the stationery case, faced up with ebony
beads f. II., the ebony moulding
round drawer-end frames and
cupboard doors
f.
III.,
the
veneered treatment of top, back,
and ends f. IV., inlay on inside
drawers
and f. V., detail of a
characteristic Queen Anne "drop
handle or pendant," taken from
an old cabinet, and much used
ter

Tv^/O

Cross BflNaNS- and- herRINGBONE- 1NL.AYIM3-ON

THIRDS

SCALE

DR***-^,.

QuEEN-i^MNE

drop-handle

Detail-

of

LEG--

One-third
full- size

period of woodwork.

in this

The drawings on

p. 1 17 are
of a writing table belonging to

XV. period, also

called " Transitional," that is, the

the late Louis

period between the Louis XV.

and Louis XVI. styles proper.
Details of the Louis XV. style

ffoff

are found in the general proportion and outline, ormolu mounts,

"bombe," i.e. curved-shaped, ends
and outline of plan the Louis
XVI. feeling being quite distinct
in the diaper tambour front and
;

inlaying upon the drawer.

When

putting this piece of work together,

Under.

it

will

be found advan-

tageous to have the legs cut to

shape first, by preparing a template

to

the

outline

in

front

and then setting the

shapes out on adjoining sides of
Both ends are
square stuff.
then prepared, shaped inside as
shown in plan, squared up, and
back the required distance from
elevation,

Round -panels

flrc- Dre%^E:.e

dowelled between the legs, setting them

the squared knee part to allow for final

curvature

of

legs.

The

back,

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

WORK

117

J
A French

Writing Table, with Tambour Front.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

n8

partitions are then tenoned into the legs, setting the pieces
back as before, and grooving into ends as shown in sectional view. Legs
are then shaped to diagram, f. i, from which it will be seen that the section
No hard and fast rule can be laid down
of the leg varies in shape as well as size.
for this kind of shaping, for the correct proportion and feeling necessary are only
acquired by long experience in this work, but, in the case of carved or intricate
shaped legs, a pine or whitewood leg is generally prepared, which serves as a

bottom, and

model, and

is

moulded

until the

shaping

When shaped, one end

finitely settled.

is

is

de-

then

inserted between the legs, and cramped together dry, with the top edge marked out to
The ends curved in
shape, as shown in plan.

plan are recessed into a panel, veneered and

finished, with the addition of small mouldings

mitred round the angles.

This can be effected

by building up the end with three thickness

band-sawn,
4-in. stuff glued together and
recessing

away the panel

Detail- COR--

NER.-OP

FRJEZE FRAHE

portion with routers

and planes, and then veneering. This is a

more economical method than that usually
adopted in French furniture, viz., cutting a
groundwork from built-up stuff, veneering the
centre part, and then mitreing round facings

2.

This is rather a
lengthy process, as all the pieces have to be
When
carefully fitted over the curved ends.
veneering such work, curved in plan, the

to form the panel borders.

1.

View

showing
Shaping
of Leg.

cuttings from

band saw are

utilised as " cauls,"

with a thin piece of cardboard between, or

a sand bag is employed, described in chapter

on " Veneering." Mounts for this work are

making a pattern in boxwood or plain satinby
prepared
to the required design, then forwarded to the
carved
wood
"
for reproduction in metal. " Water gilding
worker
metal
is the finishing process for mounts of this period, and used

"chasing" on the mounts,

Notable examples of such work
are to be seen in the Wallace Collection, and also the
Jones Collection at the Victoria and Albert Museum,
including the work of such famous artists in metal as

in

conjunction with

has a very rich

fine

effect.

Sectional
Oeben, Martin Carlin, and Gouthiere.
plan. corne.r.
of- plinth
doublep. 119 a fine example of a Chippendale
fronted pedestal table is shown. The heads to the doors are
4
exceptional, and novel in treatment. The plan shows the
arrangement in pedestals, giving similar cupboard and drawer accommodation at
each side. Drawers are introduced at each end, and with but slight structural alteration of the frieze frame, drawers could be introduced above the kneehole space.

Caffieri,

On

WORK

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

119

Jr

\,

Shape -of top

and frieze

FRAME

View- shewing
plan of frieze

GROUNDWORK.

Enlarged- de
tail-

of- pilas-

ter.-

carving

Alternate
_,_
top
Top

detail- for.

Scale- for- eleva-

PLAN

TION- (ANDI

II

II

"Chippendale" Writing Table.

2. iter-.

2o

The

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

shows the method of framing up the ends, essential in such

The construction of the doors is also shown in this view,
and it must here be observed that the corresponding shape on the frieze frame
is effected by making both together in one length, which, after being veneered,
is cut through
the top piece is then glued on to a framed-up frieze groundwork, see plan showing construction of frieze. A top lining and also a frieze
frame are next constructed, and the frieze groundwork is screwed between them.
These frames are mortised and tenoned together, with mouldings mitred round
the edges, the hollow corners inserted as shown in f. 2, p. 118.
Sectional view
through frieze and door is illustrated in f. 3, and it will be seen from this
view that the door projects above the pedestal carcase top, and that the frieze is cut away to receive
a block is
the frieze moulding
sectional plan

a heavy piece of work.

glued to the inside of

in

see B

frieze,

diagram, which closes or

fills

the cavity formed by cutting

the

Characteristic Chippen-

frieze.

dale details

same page
outline,

in

away

are

also

shown on

the carvings are cut to

and glued to doors and

2.

pilasters before carving up.

Fig. 4,

Detail of

Nested Tables.

p. 118, shows the construction of

one corner on plinth frame, with rails tongued into the corner pieces, which have
been worked to section in one long length. Cross rails of stout material, such as
4-in. by 2-1'n. pine, are dovetailed between the side rails of plinths, and act as
strengthening braces, and also provide the necessary fixing for castors. The
" paterae " at bottom corners of the doors are turned to section designed to suit
the carved detail, and they should be shouldered with a projecting part about \ in.
An alternate treatment to the
thick and bored and glued into the groundwork.
carved corners is to introduce fluting and " reeding," frequently used in
Chippendale's examples.

A Hall Table

(see opposite).

A simple table of the above type in Austrian and brown oak, executed at
Shoreditch Technical Institute, is illustrated on p. 121. The table part construction is dealt with elsewhere in this chapter, as is also the method of pinning feet
"
through the lower framing. The turning is based upon the " William and Mary
period.
A pediment back is shown, the top edge moulded, a frequent conwhich is executed by glueing the curved part
on to the groundwork, and the side pieces, of full width, on to the top edge.
Fig. 1 above illustrates the constructive detail of lower framing, in which stub
tenon joints with bevelled shoulders are used. The shaping of outside portion
should be executed as indicated, and thus provide a necessary hold for
cramps when glueing up.
structive feature of cabinetwork,

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

WORK

Sect iph

Tr^tnt View-

Drawings of a
HALL- TABLE! AND

A_TERn<=ITE
DETAIL- OF- LEG.

SCALE -OF- IMCMES

1

2.

A Hall

FEE.T--

Table, and Nested Tea Tables.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

122

Nested Tables
These tables are called

"

"

Nested

(see p.

121).

because of their arrangement,

viz.,

forming

There are two ways of making them, the

method shown being most effective. It will be seen in front view that the
largest table has *a smaller one fitting into a groove in the side rails, and this
Plan shows the
principle is extended to the remaining two, or more if necessary.
connecting rails, curved in order to fit each other, and built up for requisite strength.
The smallest table has a shelf in addition to the rail, which adds to the general
position, and also
effect when all are in
a nest or

fitting into

each other.

strengthens the smaller frame. The alternate

construction is to form grooves by screwing
slips

on to the inside of

but work executed

rails,

in this

see

manner

f.

is

2, p.

120,

unsightly

and cumbersome.

An Extension Table

(see p.

123).

This system of extension is of French

" Draw " frames act under the top (see
plan), and afford support to the semicircular
side " leaves."
A rule joint connection is used.
And the underframing is constructed by
tongued mitres at the corners, the remainder

origin.

"

halved " together, stopped dovetail joints

being used for connecting the straight lengths

end

to

rails.

Curio Tables

An
Messrs

London,

original
S.

J.
is

(see p.

table,

&

Henry

illustrated,

amount of show space

is

124).

manufactured
by
of Old Street,
which a maximum

Co.,

in

obtained.

End

eleva-

shows the glazed framing dowelled between

the legs, a false bottom is grooved across the
ends and back before glueing up, and forms
tion

filling

or soffit to the projecting front part,

rebated into the front rails and screwed from

underneath. The smaller type shown is rect-

angular

in

shape, and does not

demand

Curio tables,
segments, with curved

a detailed explanation.

made, the top made in

between the legs. When an elliptic or " kidney " shape is employed,
This is fixed at the centre, and is made of extra
a special hinge must be made.
width owing to the curved rail and top, not more than one can be used, and it is
shaped
frames

in plan, are also frequently

fitting

for this

reason that the hinge flaps are

made longer than

locks are also to be obtained for such work, which

is

the ordinary type.

very

Special

light in construction.

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

3Z

33C

m*^L

WORK

123

3E3C

qui

.v.-||jM\mimiiul

VIE^. uriDER* TOP'

SME^IHG- FRAMED'
SLIDER^ y

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OF -INLAID -TOP

(
i

iw>*"fe*i' i """""" n,in " , " H,1, "" , "" , ""ijLV

"V^

*"*

iuiiiw(wtaiirui/iiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiinmilkv^iiiivii|iiuiHini

ENLARGED
DETAIL- OF
STOP

French Extension Table.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

124

BfflfflmBIgBBCMMaiPB

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_l

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TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

WORK

125

Front- Vilw-

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E3M

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Half- Planof- fr^mimg

HdLF- Pl^in

-or-

top

SCALE!- OF- INCHES2.1

I

'

'

'

'

VlELXx/-

FEET

<^

F^rI-OEctipmL VIEW

tf

A French Hall

Table, and an Occasional Table.

126

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

A Hall Table

(see p.

125).

This is a fine example of French sixteenth century work now in the Victoria
and Albert Museum, displaying excellent proportion and characteristic decoration in the fretted and carved under or " span " rails.
The sectional view shows
construction with a tablet attached to the drawer front. The under-railing is
A small
simple, rectangular as shown in plan, and the top is mitre-clamped.
"console" or bracket is attached to the centre span rail under frieze, with a
turned "pendant" or "drop" pinned in from underneath. The original is
executed in walnut.

An Occasional Table

(see p. 125).

The measured drawings shown were made from the actual example in
It forms a part of an exhibit which is representative
Bethnal Green Museum.
3 feet

End sectional view-

An Oak Bureau on
of the Continental

presented

it

New

to the nation.

execution, both in

Art

style,

The

Stand.

purchased by Sir George Donaldson,

who

exhibit generally displays excellent technique in

wood and metal work, and

there are some fine examples of

of the designs are quite unsuitable for the
materials employed, and require bent wood in executing them, which, however

inlaying.

On

the other hand,

many

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP WORK

may be done

127

always has a natural tendency to spring

good proportion, and except for the carved knee
parts is an effective piece, with good moulded legs and top.
The construction is
effected by cutting the legs to profile, and framing up with moulded rails.
The
carving is then executed, and continued or "run off" on to the rail mouldings.
carefully

back.

it

The example

furniture,

in

given

in

is

An Oak Bureau
The example shown, upon

(see opposite).

with turned

a stand

illustrates

legs,

necessary arrangement and construction of this class of work.

dovetailed together with the angles

The

the

stand

is

braced as shown in f. 1, and a moulding mitred round front and ends. The
carcase ends need special mention
here, as they are common, with but
It
slight variations, to all bureaux.
will

be seen from the sectional view,

that the front line of end does not

carry through, but

the edge of

curved round
necessary to

is

This

fall.

is

conceal the end grain of the

fall, a small part of which

would otherwise project

beyond the carcase ends.
Many old bureaux have

[flnnwnnnnritTTnnT)

tllil

this

Holly Stationery Case.

part glued on,

small

not always satis-

but this

is

factory,

and

to ensure the

necessary strength the ends should be cut from the solid.

illustrates a stationery case suitable for the interior.

examples are shown as they occur

other parts of the book.
is

to

make

in

general rule

various pieces of
in fitting

Fig. 2

Other

work

the carcase slightly smaller at the back, and about f

shorter than the space between ends.

bead

in

stationery cases

is

in.

then glued at

each end of case to fill the intervening spaces. A detailed description of the supporting "sliders" or "lopers" is given in the
next chapter, in connection with an oak bureau bookcase.

A Chippendale Silver Table

This type of table

is,

display of silver or curios.

as the

The

name

(see p. 128).

implies, intended for the

illustration has

been measured

View showColumn

ing

glued inside
the Angle.

and drawn from an original example. The height to table top

is 28 in., and the width is 21 in.
A turned column (see f. 3) is
fixed inside the fretwork angles
diagonal stretchers assist to keep the table
rigid.
The constructive features of this table do not require any special
comment, and the arrangement of leg and rim or gallery will be apparent
;

128

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Chippendale Silver Table

Sheraton Pier Table.

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

from the enlarged

WORK

129

When

preparing the fretwork, four pieces can be

piece, and separating after the
frets have been polished.
The angles should be glued together, and the turned
column glued in position before the rail mortises are cut barefaced tenons are
used as the rails are very thin.
details.

by glueing paper between each

cut together

A Sheraton

Pier Table

(see opposite).

Pier tables were so called because of their original use in supporting a wall
or pier glass, but changing fashion has displaced "pier" glasses,

table

is

now

the

veneered with

"

and "side"
more appropriate and accepted term. The tops of these tables
curl " veneer, have a very rich effect, and it should be noted that

the carved laurel and paterae on knee part of leg were practically the only
exceptions to Sheraton's use of inlay for decoration. The top should be prepared

and rim,

first,

shelf,

and leg

lines set out

rim and shelf; both front

upon

it

templates can then be

made

This is glued up in
segments and veneered. The diagram shows construction at back corner, rim
dovetailed into leg, and straight rail tenoned with diminished haunch pocket
screwing is shown for fixing the top, but one and a half screws sunk into the
rim have a very neat appearance.
for

rails

are forked into the rim.

Console Tables.
This form of table was made by all the great designers in the late
Chippendale appears to have been the
most prolific producer. Its use was practically identical to a "pier table,"
viz., supporting a wall glass, clock, and urn candelabra or vases.
The name
originated from the form of bracket called a " console," which was used in
supporting the top, although this term appears somewhat perverted when
regarding some of Chippendale's carved extravagancies. The console table
of the Adams period is very severe in outline, the legs consisting of a modified
" console " shape, with carving of classic origin.
Marble tops were also introduced in these tables, and it is probably for this reason that Adam's tables of
eighteenth century period, although

type are referred to as

this

commode

tables.

Card Tables

(see p.

130).

French pattern of card table, based upon a Louis XV. design, is shown on
the plan shows the side rails attached to front legs, and back rail dovep. 130
Fly legs and rails are used in these tables,
tailed into side rails in box form.
with a finger joint connection (see enlarged detail). The back legs are fixed to
the fly rails, and the centre piece between fly rails is screwed to the framing.
To open the table the back legs are drawn out, and the top folded over. Curved
;

rails,

They

such as are illustrated, require careful

are usually cut from solid stuff, with
9

treatment

in

executing them.

a corner glued

in,

as

shown

3o

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP WORK

in

f.

i,

in

order to prevent the short grain breaking away which would almost
The diagram also shows the
if this provision was not made.

certainly occur

method of connection, being slip dovetailed into the knees. Although dowelling
sometimes employed, it is not recommended. This method of extension can
also be applied to semicircular card tables, both types used when closed up
The plan of top closed
as pier or side tables, and placed against the wall.
is

shows an effective veneered treatment. The centre part is of curl veneers,

which are feathered up as shown, radiating to a centre, with border crossbanded. An alternate treatment suitable for a Sheraton table top is indicated
on this page, f. 2.

A Pivoted Top Table

(see opposite).

from the simplicity of its construction and action,

plan shows the framing and line of top, open and closed.
There are various systems for determining the true position of pivot, the one
This type of card

easily ranks

table,

The

first.

Plan of framing must be set out

illustrated being the simplest.

full size,

then

VlE.^- &HEW ING- CONNEC-

TION OF- RIL

TO

L.6G-

Decorative Treatment of a Semicircular Top.

draw a centre line, divide this centre line into two equal parts, and erect a square
upon one half as shown, then draw the diagonals, the intersection of which is the
true position for centre of pivot.

receptacle for cards,

&c,

is

cross

rail

is

also necessary with this type,

secured with nut as shown in sectional view. A

provided by grooving a bottom board into the frame,

the pivot pin passing through

is

tongued to one side of cross rail. The " cabriole " frame is
executed by tenoning rails into knee parts of legs. Curved rails between legs
Cabriole legs are cut to
are also glued to rails, and stub tenoned into legs.
square section first, then rounded with spokeshaves and files before glass" Claw and ball " feet are illustrated, the origin of which can be
papering.
They
distinctly traced to the Chinese, probably suggested by animal anatomy.
should be carved up before the final finishing of leg is proceeded with. The
with a filling-in

rail

plan indicates a narrow lipping of cross-banded veneer with cloth

Lippings are sometimes placed on the outside edges only, so that
only one piece of cloth is required. This, however, generally proves unsatis-

shaded part

in

centre part.

factory at the joint.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

i32

Card Tables

(see next page).

represent an uncommon method of extension in card

by Chippendale. The leg is composed of two pieces forming
an angle, rebated together, and completed by the addition of a foot. These legs
were frequently " pierced " or " fretted," also " recessed," as shown in example on
this page. The plans indicate the extension principle, open and closed, with hinged
connections a groove is worked on the inside of rails, so that when the table
is open, the board or tray, shown in
^5^';^sto'333P.&Pp:(jHssop3:o^=s'&^cse<
plan shaded, can be drawn along,

The

first illustrations

tables, first introduced

l>Pt.Ua^^.JpC33.G3S^0pC3r:3.ta!C3^9:c!<ja.eS!!SIQ(Se)B(

thus preventing the

rails

from

clos-

ing up, and ensuring a rigid frame.

The

tops are hinged together, and

should be framed up, with a lipping inside to receive the card table

Various hinges and their

cloth.

uses on folding tops are illustrated

in the

chapter on

"

Brasswork."

An Envelope Card Table

(see opposite).

This

is

useful type,

most compact and

and is so termed bea

cause of the resemblance of folding

to an envelope.
The plan
under top shows the framing, and

flaps

also a centre cross rail to receive

the card table centre

is

drawer

also introduced into the fram-

shows the

Part plan

ing.

closed, the construction of

flaps

which

must prevent the possibility of

warping, best effected by framing up each flap with tongued
joints.

When

the top

slightly, a spring

oak
into
to

push up one

when
block

flap.

This

the spring returns to

is

its

(as

shown

in

action, the

made

is

rotated

of flexible

diagram) comes

button pressing
causing the dowel

against the rail,

then raised, and the top rotated to

its full

original position, see dotted line in plan.

extent,

stop

also shown,

which prevents the top rotating more than the required

amount. A view indicates the top open, the flaps resting on the framework
brackets are glued into the corners, and then lined with baize.
An alternate
decorative treatment in the Adam style is shown on this page.
is

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

WORK

i33

34

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Shaving Stands

illustrated are the best.

movement

ft.

in pillar

in a variety of forms, of which the three examples

height of these stands to the table part is fixed
for the swing glass type, but where an extension
The elevations have
used, this rule is not binding.

made
The

Shavino- stands are

definitely, viz., 3

(see next page).

in.

form

is

the ends dowelled into legs, with the top and

bottom tenoned into the

into ends.

with a f-in.

legs,

and housed

Brackets are then dowelled on

rod, fitting loosely between them.

These act as a towel

them as shown.

bar, with shelves

A Pillar Shaving

above

Stand.

This form of construction is applied to

kinds of tables, of which we may
mention two and three tier tea tables, cake
The constands, and circular dumb waiters.
several

structive principles involved are simple,

viz.,

the insertion of circular shelves between turned

portions of the

pillar.

This principle

is

further

illustrated in the connection of top pillar to

and elaborated according to

a collar or flange should be
requirements
turned underneath the shelves, thus permitting
of a light appearance on the circular rims.
Various movements are attached to shaving

the standard,

stands

in

order to permit of tilting or turning

These are illustrated on this page,

and an enlarged detail shows sectional views
of the column, to which the movement is
the mirror.

attached.

The

silvered

and

mirrors

illustrated

where these are

introduced, the mirrors must be carefully
blocked in the rebate so that the margin
shows equally at the front. The quickest
method is to cut small wedge-shaped blocks,
and these are placed in the space between glass and frame, secured by lightly
Rebates should be lampblacked, or an
glueing and fixing with a panel pin.
In addition to blacking the rebate
unsightly reflection will show on the glass.
the glass edge is also darkened.
are

without

bevels,

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP WORK

i35

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

136

An Elliptical Table (see opposite).

Louis XVI.

building up the rim

elliptical table is
is

shown on next page, and the method of

" Workshop Practice."
This

described in the chapter on

rim is veneered and inlaid with brass lines, or recessed as in f. i, forming panels
veneered with amboyna or thuya wood, with a brass-cased moulding mitred round
the angles, see diagram.
The top should be flush and framed up. The legs are
turned and inlaid with brass flutes, see f. 2, and the circular mounts under knee
part of legs

fit

as

shown

in

f.

3,

placed in position and screwed

before shoes are put on.
the top

is

When

prepared and rebated

shown it should be forwarded to the metalworker, who

makes the rim as indicated in
Small metal blocks are
4.

to section

f.

inserted at intervals underneath,

brazed to the rim, and

"

tapped
to receive set screws.
The rim
is then fixed by screwing from
underneath through pockets cut
under top. Brass shoes, shown in
f.

2,

work
embracing many

are a feature of

period
tions.

the leg

"

With
is

in this

varia-

example shown,
turned away to receive
the

the shoe, which

into the leg

is then screwed
from underneath.

A Circular Table
(see opposite).

This drawing-room table,

of satinwood, is very similar in construction to the above
kind, but there is no necessity
5. Method of attaching
for the framed top, " laminating,"
Stretchers to Legs.
or even a well-seasoned solid top,
veneered both sides, stands well,
secured to the rim by "pocket screwing" or buttoning (see "Joints and their
Application "). Fig. 5 shows a detail of the stretcher and leg mortised and tenoned
together.
The inlaid lines round leg are bent round an iron bar, to obtain the
requisite curvature, and the stretchers are screwed to the circular shell, or they
may be made as diagonal rails, halved at the centre. When inlaying the turned
portion under knee, a template must be prepared to fit the leg between the
mouldings, and shaped to coincide with the inlay line. The end of a file is

made

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

WORK

i37

w
DO

6
Q

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

3S

used as a cutter, worked against the template edge until the desired depth
obtained to receive the line.

A Chess Table

is

(sec opposite).

Chess or draught tables, of which the measured drawing shown is an

example, only differ from an ordinary occasional table in the arrangement
The illustration shows a reversible top, which, when not in use,
of the top.
Sectional view shows the centre
is reversed and forms an occasional table.
top working upon brass pins fixed on each edge, sliding in brass-lined grooves.
Constructional detail of top rails shows the necessary mortise and tenon and

box enclosure more

up the work, to prevent
A sketch illustrates the construction of bottom framing,
scratching the top.
are
clamped
at front and back, mortised and tenoned as shown,
the divisions
tongued into the rails see also section. The
bareface
panels
are
and the
table
are Italian walnut and rosewood, and it was
materials used in this
dovetail joints, the centre part cut

These

accessible.

away

are lined with baize

rails

to render the

when

fitting

made

designed and

at the

Shoreditch Technical Institute.

A Bed Table
The drawing shows
with tilting top.

(see opposite).

a type of invalid table adjustable to desired height, and

show the box pillar tenoned into a T-shaped

Sectional views

shown in small sketch. This also illusmethod of fixing the top plate B. The height is adjusted by raising
when the plate automatically descends, and prevents further insertion

stand, with an inside pillar notched as

trates the

the

pillar,

of the notched

round centre

pillar.

C,

partial side

bolted as

shown

in

view shows detail of quadrant, revolving

section.

When

the top

is

tilted to

any

securely fixed by tightening the butterfly nut attached to

bolt.
The pierced brass bracket under top is to ensure rigidity, and is attached
to quadrant, and also to a T-shaped brass plate fixed on underside of top

desired angle,

it

is

this bracket distributes the

weight of top on to the

pillar

A Pillar "Pie Crust" Table

claw

and stand.

(see opposite).

The
Details of a Chippendale pillar table are also given on next page.
feet are dovetailed into the pillar, and the curved top is executed by cutting

moulding the rim and clearing away the centre part with planes
a deep-centred lathe is available, the better method is to
turn away the centre part, finishing the moulding with scratch stock and cutter.
Oval tops of a similar character can also be worked upon a lathe, necessitating
the use of a special fitting, viz., a chuck, based upon the " trammel " or " twoto shape, then

and

router.

centred

When

" principle.

TABLES AND FRAMED-UP

WORK

39

<

<

o
w
pq

>^

[III

CHAPTER

VII.

CARCASE WORK.

Chest of Drawers, General Proportions and Construction Bookcases, Dwarf, Glazed

Oak Bureau
Inlaid and Barred Door Cases
Doors, and Cupboard Carcase
Bookcase Sideboards Pedestal, Leg, and Carcase Curved and Straight Fronts

Adam and Georgian Types Dresser Sideboard Wardrobes Gent's Hanging,

Pedestal Writing Table Queen Anne Flap Cabinet
and Wing Carcases
Satinwood China Cabinet Secretaire Writing Cabinet and Bookcase Dressing
Chest Music Cabinet Scale Drawing and Sheet of Details of Flemish Cabinet
Tall-boy Chest Dutch China Cabinet Full Details of Construction, Interior

Elliptical

Fittings, Cases, Trays, Cellarets, Shelf Supports, Glass Backs, &c.

The term "carcase" is generally applied to the "case" or "cupboard" part

between the plinth and cornice. There may be a top and a bottom carcase, as
in a bookcase, or a "middle" and right and left "wing," as in a wardrobe, all
Sometimes a carcase may be
of which have been built up from the old chest.
fitted to a framed-up stand with legs, or may hang on the wall, but the title of
this chapter applies the term in a general way to enclosed furniture.

A Chest of Drawers

(see next page).

The illustration on next page shows the general proportions and dimensions
of this article of furniture, with constructive principles general in carcase work.
The ends can be framed up or used solid as shown. Division rails between
drawers are stub tenoned or housed into the ends (see also chapter on "Joints
and their Application "). Carcase rails at top should be 3 in. wide, with brackets
glued at each end for dovetailing, thus economising material without losing
strength.
These rails are set back behind the drawer fronts (see section) a
useful detail when a top rail under a thick moulded top would appear heavy.
This detail is repeated at bottom. The bottom stand is a constantly recurring
feature in carcase work, and is constructed by through dovetailing a ground
;

frame of -in. stuff. A length of moulding worked to the section shown is then
mitred round three sides of the frame, and is cut to elevation when thoroughly
dry.
Sectional view shows the dust-boards grooved into the rails, with a
corresponding rail at the back, forming a complete dust-board frame under
This is the better method, although the dust-board is frequently
the drawers.
slid in between the runners after glueing up the job, and completed by the

CARCASE WORK
addition

of a

panelled

Construction."

back,

or

as

described

141
in

"

Workshop

Practice

and

Refer also to that chapter for processes connected with manu-

and drawer-making. The drawers in this example are made

and faced up before mitreing and glueing the mouldings.
at centre is introduced, projecting | in. above the ground-

facture of carcases

and flushed

off

raised tablet

work

facings.

\xwto rmrmnTrTi

Chest of Drawers with Shaped Plinths.

Bookcases
The example on next page

(see next page).

is a typical bookcase regarding general proarrangement of doors, &c, occasionally vary, such as,
for instance, open glazed or barred doors in the bottom part, and a narrow frieze
in place of the drawer.
The depth of book space, i.e., the distance between
inside of door and back, should never be less than 10 in., and this distance is
frequently increased to suit special requirements.
There are four methods
employed to support the adjustable shelves, one of which is illustrated on
in.
Holes are bored
deep at intervals of \\ in. inside both
143.
p.

portions, although the

142

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

CARCASE WORK

M3

wooden studs (see f. I.) are inserted to support the shelves.

ensure accurate spacing for these holes, set out the distances upon a slip
of wood, gauge a centre line, and bore holes with a |-in. dowel bit (see f. II.).
Glue a stop at each end, so that the slip may be placed on the carcase end and
ends, and turned

To

secured with a small hand-screw, then bore through the holes.

stop is fixed
to the dowel bit, so that all are bored equal depth.
To prevent the shelves
slipping forward, the)' can be hand-screwed together, and bored with a bit, and

when separated semicircular cavities are left which drop over the head of stud
III.).
Another method of supporting shelves is with brass studs (see f. IV.)
\-in.
holes
are
made in the ends as before, and the underside of shelf is bored
T
to fit the circular head with a centre bit
when the shelf is in position, the under(see

f.

side

is

quite flush.

carcase,
fillets

third method, used only in conjunction with a pilastered

to fix saw-tooth racks

is

to receive the shelves

on to the ends, and insert small

where required (see f. v.). Tonk's patent

cleats

or

fitting for

adjustable shelves consists of strips of -in. iron with rectangular holes cut at

The ends are grooved to receive these

and the irons are inserted and screwed down flush

intervals to receive a small spiked clip.

irons with a special plane,

(see

f.

VI.).

and the

clip

To
is

insert the clip, the small projection

prevent the shelf

doors curved on the front only

dust bead

is

placed in the hole,

the "diaper"

stiles,

Inlaid Bookcase

The design shows an

Institute.
The

Technical

be understood from the diagrams. A

which renders the case almost dustproof.

in plan, will

inserted into hanging

An

to

is first

down square with the irons, a small spike serving to

moving forward when in position. The construction of top

then brought

(see p.

145).

treatment executed at the Shoreditch

an executive process similar
The chequered
patternwork of the Louis XVI. period.
effective

panels

demand

44

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

diamonds are prepared

first by cutting strips of rosewood and satinwood

veneer to required width. These are then glued down on to paper, and
when dry one end is cut obliquely (see A A in f. I. below). A cutting gauge
is set
from this edge and a cut made on either side of the veneer
this
:

marks three diamond shapes

one length with rosewood outside. Half the

number of those prepared are required with satinwood outside, and these are proceeded with as above. The lines surrounding the chequered diamonds arc next
dealt with
veneer is glued on paper, as indicated
in f. II., the edge shot, and pieces gauged off in.
SflTirtwooo S
wide.
Set out the panel on paper, and commence
RosewoooV
fitting up the surface from one corner, glue down a
mahogany piece first, and then glue down a piece
Follow this up by glueing down the
of line.
chequer pattern, then the line, and next the
mahogany. This process is continued until the
whole surface is glued on to stiff paper, which
when dry is transferred to the panel groundwork and
Cutting Veneers for Diapers.
veneered with cauls in the usual way. After the
in

surface has been cleaned off with the toothing plane, the small

ebony diamonds

advantageous to use stiff brown paper for this

process, damped and stretched on to a clamped board, described in the chapter on
" Drawing," &c.
The inlaid cornice frieze also introduces processes not dealt with
" Curl " mahogany and rosewood are the materials used,
elsewhere.
and the lancet-shaped pieces are cut by pinning six or eight thicknesses of veneer between two thin pieces of hard wood, taking care
that the centre line of each curl is directly under the centre line of the
lancet which has previously been drawn on the thin wood. Then cut
with a fine bow or fret, and finish carefully to shape with files. Carefully glue the pieces of veneer on to paper, butting each edge against
are cut in with a chisel.

It

is

a straightedge to ensure accuracy, and then cut the pointed pieces in

a similar fashion, testing them carefully between the other veneers

These pieces are then glued down, and

The inlaid mouldings are executed by veneering the edge surfaces, and inlaying the corner lines,
Diamond and square shapes
cutting in the squares with a chisel.
are frequently introduced into barred doors, and these are executed
before separating them.

when dry

are ready for veneering.

Fig. hi.

in a

manner

Prepare a piece of -in.

whitewood to the inside line of slab, and cut the |-in. slab round this piece,
mitreing the corners. Temporarily pin the pieces to template, and complete
the joint by making dovetail saw cuts at the angles, into which veneers
The straight bars are then
are glued, forming a dovetail key (see f. III.).
similar to the small six-sided panels in this example.

V-jointed, and strengthened with strips of linen glued in the angles.

The satinwood diamonds should be toned down in the polishing to prevent

mahogany should be kept to its

too sharp a contrast with the rosewood and the

natural colour.

CARCASE WORK

Elevations
one

to-

inch scale

Inlaid Bookcase.

Designed and Made at the Shoreditch

Technical Institute.

146

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

LZ2
A Bureau

Bookcase.

L_l

CARCASE WORK

An Oak Bureau Bookcase

Good

(see opposite).

general proportions are represented in this example, which was

by Messrs J. S. Henry & Co. The height of bureau fall

from ground line when horizontal, the same as for writing

factured
to 30

i47

in.

The bureau

tables.

carcase

is

made

manu-

varies from 29

quite separate from the

fall
these draw
out about 13 in., and are stopped by boring f-in. holes 16 in.
from the front edge to receive a short dowel inserted when

bookcase, with slides or lopers to support the

the loper

is

run in through the drawer opening

when the

stops against the edge of the division

forward, and prevents

billiard table cloth is

this

loper

is

dowel

drawn

it being entirely withdrawn.

slip of
glued to the top edges of lopers, com-

mencing ^ in. from front edge, to prevent marking the face

The sectional view shows a |-in. groove
fall when horizontal.
worked underneath the shelves, this is to receive bookcase
leathers, which are held in position by glueing a wedge-shaped
slip in the groove behind the leather strip.
An alternate method
Grooves are formed in the
of supporting the shelves is shown.
ends and an L- shaped stud is inserted (see sketch), which leaves Lu & Shelf Support,
Shelves in bottom
the lug projecting to support the shelves.
carcases are in most cases supported by either of the methods previously
of

described, or

fillets

may

be used, screwed to the carcase ends.

A Dwarf Bookcase

(see next page).

part plan of the plinth frame belonging to this piece indicates the con-

the mitres being tongued and blocked, beads are inserted between the
wing and centre carcases, which facilitate fitting up and allow the door to clear
the end.
The construction of the carcase corner is also shown glued up and
rebated right through, and filling pieces are glued in to fit the column, then
Quarter columns
levelled previous to veneering the end and also the front edge.
are worked by planing up four squares of stuff and glueing them together with
paper between the joints after the turning and reeding are completed, the joints
are forced apart with a knife, toothed to remove paper and glue, and each piece
struction

The

decoration of this frieze consists

recessing," but this decoration
of a pattern recessed | in. from face side called
is frequently accomplished by glueing fretted patterns into the groundwork,
is fitted

into the angles provided for them.

"

although not so satisfactory. To glue the frets, prepare a board and lightly
cover with thin glue, place the fret upon a heated caul, and transfer the toothed
surface when warm to the glued board, well press all parts down, when suffithen lift off and place in position and
cient glue will adhere to the surface
;

148

Z.

p
V
U
CO

id
_i

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

CARCASE WORK

149

If the glueing
screw tightly down with a flat piece of wood and hand-screws.
has been carefully done, there will only be sufficient glue upon the fret to secure
without any spare glue oozing out when hand-screwed. To construct a
it,

wing carcase door, prepare eight L-shaped bars dovetailed together from y^-in.
mortise the L-shapes into
stuff, and three square forms also dovetailed together
the frame first, and then V cut straight lengths across the door between the
;

points

now

place a straightedge across the rails to

mark the

position of vertical

on the cross pieces, these are halved together where they cross, and glued
up when dry, lay the three squares into bars and carefully mark position with a
The squares should
knife, then cut through and finish the V joints with a chisel.
then fit exactly in position. Glue together, and strengthen all joints by glueing
a strip of thin linen into all the angles. This method of procedure ensures
accurate fitting, and the short length will follow through in straight lines.
Building up curved slats is described in " curved work " section of the chapter

slats
;

on

"

Workshop

Practice and Construction."

A Georgian Sideboard
The

front elevation

on

a sectional view, showing

It

is

p.

how

50

is

(next page).

drawn with a part

finished, the other portion

made and fitted together.

Henry & Co. The bottom

the various parts are

reproduced by permission of Messrs

J.

S.

carcases are used for cellaret and cupboards, but

could be constructed having the

if

required a large carcase

same appearance, blocked and screwed

into

and stand. The " claw and ball " feet are then tenoned into
False ends are necessary if a cellaret drawer is required in the
the base.
In
pedestal, in order to allow free passage of the drawer past the edge of door.
making the frieze frame, the groundwork is set back to allow of the moulding
being mitred round. This moulding is worked to within about 5 in. of each
The sideboard top part is framed
mitre, the high part left is for carved corners.
Both hoods above the
together, and dowelled as shown in the separate sections.
columns are mitred and tongued at the corners, and a block is glued in for
These hoods are fixed over the back as shown in
turning the fluted coves.
A curved shelf is dovetailed between, and mouldings
sectional view in B B.
are glued round the hoods mitreing into the moulded edge of shelf at the inside
front corners.
A turned ring or circle forms the convex mirror frame, which is
The circle
scribed over the back framing, and is also cut away to form a rebate.
into
being
scribed
head
key
piece
at
is glued and screwed, the carving pieces and
pillars,
and
ends
of
both
turned
at
Pins are
position before they are carved.
in
connecdescribed
are
cellaret
fittings
Various
glued into the hoods and bases.
tion with an Adam sideboard in this chapter, either of which could be substituted
for the more ordinary lead-lined drawer illustrated in the sectional view, but this
is most satisfactory, and accommodates more bottles than either of the methods
position

on

frieze

The left-hand pedestal is usually fitted with a shelf only,

but two or three shallow trays at the top, fitted for small articles of plate or
cutlery, and cupboard space underneath them, is an excellent arrangement.
previously described.

150

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

*mm$

3^ZZ2ZZZ.

CARCASE WORK

A Sideboard
Much

simpler work

part being in one piece.

is

151

(see next page).

illustrated in these drawings, the

whole of the bottom

The view with top removed shows

dovetailing of top

drawer rail into the divisions, which runs right through and acts as a division
between the centre cupboards; the ends are tongued into the legs, and the curved
frieze

over doors are slip dovetailed

rails

putting this piece of furniture together

is

down

as follows

into legs.
:

The method

of

Tenon the divisions into

bottom, tongue and dowel the divisions into the front

legs, slip dovetail the

bottom drawer rail in position and dovetail down the top rail. Both ends of
carcase bottom are tenoned into the legs as shown in sectional view through
bottom. The curved portion of base moulding is worked upon the solid, and
all returns to breaks are mitred round, glued into rebate in ends, and set back
at the front, housing where they cross the ends.
Trays are fitted into the lefthand cupboard space, and the other is fitted with a cellaret drawer, lead lined,
having divisions both cupboards, enclosed by circular doors, are fitted with
a centre shelf. The sectional view shows construction of top part, the frieze
;

rail

being veneered to show the grain carrying right through.

An Adam Sideboard
This type of sideboard

is

made

in

the

(p. 153).

Adam, Hepplewhite, and Sheraton

proportions and outline are similar, the decoration varying according

to style.
Both pedestals are made

styles

separate from the centre table part,

and connected by screwing.

The
of pedestals and the
arrangement of cellaret drawers are
construction

almost

identical

the

in

different

types containing

styles, the original

racks and a spirit lamp for

warming them, but these are not
introduced in modern work.
A
plate

"

Tambour "

front

frequently used

is

under the long

used as a cupboard,
and the square drawers are fitted
with sliding trays for cutlery (see
to enclose the space

drawer, then

sketch).

side
plan,

the

The

cellaret

pedestal,

divided

up

is

for

drawer, in-

oblong
bottles

in

and

lined.
This is an excellent
arrangement, as it economises space,

lead

Tray Fittings

in Inside

Drawer.

152

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

ELEV/qTion-

SECTlOrWL- VIE\tf
TMR2, BOTTOM

CUPBOARD

SECTiOHflL- PLflh
THR2,- TOP-CUPBOflPD,

SECTION TrlRg-y
FRIEZE

1'

k a nlnl ii

TOP- RE

2'.

4-'

5'

&

SCALE-

.
|

SECT IOn- TTiR^'

BOTTOM

MOVED

Mahogany Leg Sideboard.

Plate XVII.

Mahogany Sideboard.
{Designed and made at the L.C.C. Shoreditch Technical Institute)

[To face page 152.

Plate XVIII.

Painted Sideboard

Sideboard, Painted.

By

Mr

Ambrose Heal.

{Heal 6 Son Ltd.)

{Designed by P. A. Wells {Oetzmann

&

Co.).)

CARCASE WORK

153

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

iS4

but the alternate fittings shown

and

below and fixed to pivoted doors

shows connection
between centre part and pedestal, with false end
dovetailed into carcase bottom and rails, and set
back behind the pedestal pilaster with the drawer
front overlapping.
The half plan above top shows
the joint line of tops, dowelled up dry, with the
moulding worked on
sides and front and
in

f.

II.

are also a feature of these sideboards.

run

III.

The

sectional plan

off at the back.

Shaped tops of pedestals

are executed as

follows

Quadrant" Cellaret

Fitting.

Rails

are

dovetailed into pilas-

Semicircular Cellaret.

from back to
front, with a rail stub tenoned between them at the back
these form a groundwork into which moulded pieces 3 in. wide are mitred round to coincide with
the centre top. The built-up moulded hood is then glued in position, and the
curved piece mitred, scribed, and glued. The part under this curved moulding
is then cut away, and levelled off flush to receive the door.
Doors are made
from solid stuff, and clamped as shown in section, or laminated. The carving is
cut to outline first, glued to the door, and finished in position.
ters

Wardrobes.
There are many types of wardrobes, consisting of one, two, and three carcases,
which are termed " Hanging," " Gentlemen's," and " Winged " wardrobes, according to their form and interior arrangement.
The example shown on p. 155 is a
" break-front winged wardrobe," and consists of a centre carcase containing four
drawers and five sliding trays enclosed by doors. Both wing carcases are in
this case fitted with a bottom drawer, intended to receive hats, &c, or an
enclosure may be substituted, fitted with a hinged lid.
Rails are screwed to the
carcases about 9 to 12 in. from the top, to which the brass hanging pegs are
screwed, these peg rails also supporting a shelf; but where the height of a
wardrobe is insufficient for both drawer and shelf, the peg rail is fixed close to
the carcase top, and additional swivel hooks are also screwed underneath the
top.
Half plan of plinth frame shows its construction, with moulding mitred
round both cross rails and the back are made wider to allow for this extra
thickness, whilst the cornice frame is mitred at the front corners, with lap
dovetailed back rail
a moulded top is screwed to this cornice frame, and
brackets are dowelled into position.
Arrangement of carcases will be understood from the diagram, the division between the drawers and trays being
carried through full width.
Trays are supported by two methods the neatest
consists of grooving the tray side, and screwing hardwood slips against the ends
the second method is to screw bearers of f-in. stuff to the ends and run the
;

CARCASE WORK

i55

'!\

UJUBf'LsJI

VIEW

^iriD

HflLF5ECTlOn^L-'VlEX^-

EnL*qR^ED- DetailT(?rtV'

SKETCH OF

-TRfiJ

INCHESI

3'
I

^r

SCflLfZ'

td=fa

An

Inlaid Wardrobe.

5IDE- /^MD'SUP'

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

156

putting up the carcases to glue a

this
strip of Tfi-in. stuff with beaded edge against the centre carcase ends
door
the
of
the
edge
simplifies fitting the carcases together, and also prevents
rubbing against the end. To fit the carcases up, set the plinth true upon a
level floor, place carcases in position, hand-screwing together where necessary,
trays between them.

It

is

expeditious

in

and measuring pro&c, then screw the

ends together, and also screw

testing

jections,

down

to the plinth

nice frame

the cor-

and screwed through the

tion,

carcase

two

i.

also set in posi-

is

tops.

dozen

Now

4-in.

prepare

whitewood

Rebated Astragal

Methods of Building up Shaped Door Heads.

Joint.

blocks about

3 in.

square,

and glue and screw them

angles of plinth and cornice.

from the cornice to

effect this.

to the carcases only in the

be necessary to unscrew the dust-board
These blocks are shown in the front sectional

It will

view, and ensure the carcases finding their correct position

when

fitting

up again.

Both small doors are glued up in three thicknesses, the centre piece crosswise,
with an astragal moulding, as in f. 1 above. Figs. II. and III. show different ways
of constructing the curved door heads, i.e., " mitred and tongued " and " tenoning" rail into stiles. In both cases the shaping is done after glueing up,
then rebated, and the corners rounded.

A Winged Wardrobe

(next page).

This type of wardrobe is built up of five parts, named plinth, cornice, surhanging carcase, tray carcase, and cornice, as illustrated in the key diagram.
False ends are fitted into the tray carcases, which allows the trays to slide past
This is a general rule in carcases when both doors
the door edges when opened.
are fitted inside the ends, and is, of course, not required when the doors are
hung over the ends. f-in. stuff is used for the false ends, with slips placed at
intervals in the space formed to prevent casting, and screwed through both
base,

Heavy glazed doors are usually centre pivoted, and a stay

and carcase at the top to prevent the door swinging back
The diagram shows the front top rail of surbase about 4 in. wide, and

pieces from inside.

is

fixed to the door

too

far.

CARCASE WORK

157

158

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

made up

to give extra

methods of making

width

for dovetails.

glass backs for large

Figs. I., II., and III. below show

wardrobe doors. This example is
reproduced by permission of
Messrs J. S. Henry & Co.

A Hanging Wardrobe
(see opposite).

This

is

shown

in front

sectional elevation.

carcase

is

and

The large

lap dovetailed to-

framed-up
a
back screwed in, and then
wide pilasters are glued into
Reeded columns
the front.

gether,

with

are fitted over the corners of

carcase and surbase, whilst

moulding lines follow round the column lines. Refer also to chapter on
" Practical Geometry."
The best construction for the door with an elliptical glass
panel is to mitre the frame together with tongued joints, then cut and rebate the
ellipse, and glue a small moulding round on the outside edges as shown.
all

CARCASE WORK

>

59

ii

to]

'*

yj

i6o

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Minihane, and
case work

its

is

bedroom

well suited for a large

construction

is

or landing.

As

a piece of car-

quite simple, consisting of three carcases, a plinth,

and cornice. The centre part, with two doors, is fitted with trays and drawers,
and the two wings provide good hanging cupboards, and a bonnet box. The
design, which resembles the older type of " armoire " more than the modern
wardrobe, is notable for its fine proportions, and in the simple but effective treatment of the doors, which are flush panelled and veneered with small figured stuff.
The play of light on the diagonal markings in the pattern was a marked feature
This effect is often lost sight of in the choice of veneers and figure,
in the design.

A Mahogany Wardrobe
especially in satinwood stuff, which,

which

some

according to

when

extraordinary changes
its

in

position in the room.

and the

matched

by

Mr

E.

J.

Minihane.

upon
and shade effects are visible,
This kind of work must be carefully
polished, presents a surface

light

near as possible in regular lines, or

always be made more prominent
by the polish and light. The raised mouldings on the doors were grooved
in, and the moulding on each side was " run out," so as to form the flat
diamond-shaped stops which give a distinctly decorative treatment to the
planned,

figure

as

a distorted pattern will result, which will

constructive detail of the doors.

spindle machine.

The

"

run outs

"

are easily

worked on the

CARCASE WORK

An Elliptical Writing Table

161

(see next page).

This piece of furniture is introduced here in order to illustrate principles

The application of these
relating to carcase work which is shaped in plan.
principles

is

constantly occurring in work of this kind

and

for

example,

should be set out upon a

in

kidney-

board in
preference to paper, so that the templates can then be taken direct from the
The method of making templates from a board is fully described in
board.
Chapter V., and in work of this character it is most important.
Commencing with the plinth, the necessary templates are obtained for
Then proceed to obtain the
the segments, and also the plinth mouldings.
templates for frieze and drawer fronts the top is marked direct from the board.
When making the plinth frame, glue all the segments up, clean off the inside
and brace them as shown in diagram. Next level the outside and veneer same
(for description see chapter on " Veneering "), and then add the pilaster bases and
the plinth moulding.
The cross braces serve to strengthen the plinth frame,
and also act as bearers for the carcases. The construction of the large carcase
is shown in sectional
plan, and the outside is built up or " coopered " with
These are bevelled
pieces of dry material about i in. thick, and 5 in. wide.
and tongued together, planing to the true shape on the template after glueing
Both inside ends are then constructed, framed together, glued between the
up.
pilasters, and finished off with curved pieces and door.
The drawer rails are now tenoned, the top rails dovetailed, and the carcase
bottom fixed this bottom runs right through the job, pinned at the divisions
and pilasters, dovetailed where possible, and rebated and screwed. Fix runners
on the ends, and prepare the dust-boards the whole carcase is then ready to
glue up. A diagram also illustrates the construction of frieze frame, with top
this does not demand further
rail
set back behind the drawer fronts
explanation regarding construction
a moulding is glued under frieze, also
in segments.
Wherever possible, such furniture as this should be made in
parts for convenience both in making and transit, but this is not always
practicable in shaped work.
In this case the frieze is definitely dowelled
and fixed to the main carcase, the plinth being blocked and temporarily
screwed. Another principle in connection with carcases containing drawers

shaped and

circular carcases

it

i-in.

is to flush off the fronts after the drawers are fitted.

To effect this, temporarily
stop the drawers with their fronts projecting slightly beyond the rails, and
level down.
Take out the drawers, tooth, veneer, and clean up, and insert

them the required distance from edge of rails.

This method is quickest in the end, and it ensures all the " squares " being
this is framed
equal, and with good effect.
Details are shown of the top
mahogany
cross-banded
of
together, moulded on the edge, and a lipping
about 1^ in. wide surrounds the leather lining; the moulding details and
alternate treatment for pilasters are drawn two-thirds full size.

the drawers again, stopping

writing table top of this size is best made in one solid piece, with
Two or more
a narrow cross-bandinsr of satinwood round the leather lining.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

i6 2

PL
<

CARCASE WORK

163

skins are used butted together across the top with a simple edging or border.

When

shrinkage occurs

in

panelled tops,

it

creates unsightly cracks or breaks

in the leather.

A Queen Anne Cabinet

This cabinet

made up

(see p.

164).

of a carcase and surbase only.

In the majority
be found advantageous
to carry the framing and ends right through, and make a dust-board rebate
by using the cornice moulding, which is glued round the framing and ends,
and allowed to project about I in. above them. The surbase is made first,
and is tongued and dovetailed together with the ogee moulding mitred round.
This is followed by preparing the top and bottom members as indicated in
sectional view, and glueing them round also.
Two cross rails and also the
is

of cases where a curved cornice

back

are

rail

made

is

wider, notched

introduced,

it

will

out to receive the moulding, when the

up the framing and ends are set out upon the top side,
and made with wide top rails reaching to \ in. below top line of job.
Enlarged scale view of carcase bottom shows the method of connection to
the framing, with a panelled back screwed into rebates.
The bottom moulding
in this carcase is rebated and glued into position, as shown in section.
To
prepare the cornice moulding, templates must be cut to shape for marking
out the stuff; the front piece follows the outline of the carving, and the
moulding is stopped a few inches each side of the centre piece.
This
requires extra thickness, obtained by glueing on a piece of stuff to the
moulding before it is cut. It will also be necessary to slip dovetail a rail
curved in outline between the pilasters in order to carry the moulding also
two rails between front and back for extra strength the moulding is then
Mention has been made of the dust-board |-in. stuff is
mitred all round.
surbase

is

tried

used, finished to bare thickness.

The

large curve can be bent into the rebate,

and secured with glue and screws. The side pieces are bevel jointed, and
worked to true shape before glueing in. The end grain of these dust-boards
must be at the front. In addition to glass shelves, which would require light
metal bar supports, the back and sides are sometimes lined with silvered
plate glass, fitting close against the back and ends, and fixed by rebated
This sectional view
mouldings screwed round the outside of each sheet.
shows an alternate treatment for a silk-lined cabinet with a wooden shelf
supported by brass studs.

A "William and Mary" China Cabinet

(Manufactured by Messrs

The top
example,

i.e.,

part of this cabinet

Queen Anne

is

J. S.

Henry

&

(see p.

165).

Co.)

constructed very similarly to the previous

running right through,

cabinet, with framed ends

64

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

A Queen Anne China

Cabinet,

g
cq

Plate XX.

c
g

CARCASE WORK

165

EML/3RS5EP* DE-

TOIL- THROUGH

PIL^SXE ROOFTOP- CARCASE:

PL/^n-OF

L-

SECTIONAL-

PL^N -THR^,
BOTTOM-

DRAWERS

2'
1

3'

-f'

SC^LE-

"William and Mary" China Cabinet.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

166

and a front

dovetailed in between to receive the cornice moulding, and a

tenoned into the rail. An additional straining rail is also dovetailed
between the semi-head to the back rail. The bottom part of this cabinet has six
legs, with either a shelf or a curved underframing above the feet
detail of
rail

pilaster stub

moulding

for

this

part

shown below.

This shelf or framing is fixed to

pins on to the feet, with corresponding holes in

is

the shafts by turning f-in.

and legs. Place the shelf in position, well glue the pins, and cramp toThe carcase is constructed by framing up the ends, setting the panel
gether.
shelf

back,

and mitreing a moulding round

rebated
the

the

The

legs.

back

or

in,

as

Nolo
at-

this

an

is

economical

piece

correct

making the legs is to

and reduce the knee

cut

and best method of

them from 4-1'n. stuff,

parts

expensive

plan

framed up and
dowelled between

either

is

solid

usually

is

turning,

after

procedure,

Details two
thirds full

ling

them
the

This
and dowel-

followed.

consists of turning pins on the legs,

case

into the posts on carcase.

centre

twin

are

legs

but,

more

In either

tenoned

into

Rebated and moulded drawer fronts

look exceedingly well (see detail on section),
and effectively conceal any shrinkage in the
drawer front.
surbase.

SIZE

A Satinwood China Cabinet

(see opposite).

China

cabinets

number of

made

are

forms, and the

an

in

infinite

types reproduced on

and following pages are such as

sound constructional features and

the opposite

introduce

characteristic

The

sent.

Moulding

Details.

details

cabinet

they repre-

of the styles

on

p.

167

is

made up

of three carcases, the centre one curved in plan

like

flat

ogee.

It

separate cornices for this light form of carcase.

is

not necessary to

The ends

make

run through, and

is veneered
moulding. This
is
of kingwood cut over the corners as with the columns, with the small
remaining piece of column glued on to the frieze.
A cornice is built up as
shown in diagram, f. 1, p. 168. The inlaid portion, circular in plan, is also

pieces are dovetailed between the ends to form the frieze, which

and

inlaid.

The columns

also carry through

to

the

frieze

cut over, the straight lengths of moulding glued down, and the cornice com-

down from
round the base moulding, all columns are
grooved
in. deep to receive these mouldings, which are turned in the form of a
ring, with straight lengths between them.
The diagram on the same page shows
pleted

by the addition of a

inside

the
}.

carcases.

To

full

mitre

top with moulded edge, screwed

CARCASE WORK

167

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

68

how

to obtain the true mitre,

when both

further explained in chapter on

"

are

worked

to the

Practical Geometry."

The

same

section,

shelves

and

and

is

interior

parts of china cabinets are usually lined with silk or velvet, the shelves
having a lipping or margin of polished wood about i in. wide. This is formed
by gauging round the edges, and recessing the wood about TV in. deep (see
When the material is glued down, the edge is concealed by this
2 below).
f.
lipping, and a level surface is obtained upon the
top side.
Glass shelves are also largely used,
f in. thick, of plate glass, with slightly rounded
edges, and are supported by screwing eyes into

shown in accompanying
Although reeded and carved

the cabinet angles, or as

details,

f.

and

4.

columns

are used in this example, inlaid or

marquetried columns are frequently met with in
these cabinets, and demand very careful treatment
It will be quite obvious to the reader that when
when laying the veneer.
several pieces are cut into a veneer to form a design, it will easily break
upon attempting to bend it. The marquetry is therefore backed up with a
piece of linen or silk, firmly glued on, and which, when slightly moistened,
Well glue the toothed
allows of bending round the column without splitting.
column and wait until quite chilled, then pin down one edge of the veneer,
1.

2.

Sketches oflug supports

SHELVES

BRACKET

and carefully bend into position, binding tightly with wet webbing, until the
whole is bound up. Thoroughly heat over a shaving blaze, which melts the
glue, and at the same time dries the webbing, which contracts and expels the
The bottom space in the centre carcase may have either a fitted drawer
glue.
each would be equally effective flush
or cupboard with an enclosing door
veneered and inlaid.
Fig. 5 shows a bracket support used when a fixing can be obtained at one

side only, as frequently occurs with glass-lined cabinets.

CARCASE WORK

A Queen Anne Writing

On

Its
is

169

Cabinet.

170 are drawings and details of a fine type of writing cabinet.

associated with the early Queen Anne period, and although it
not, as a rule, made up now, it contains many good features in its conp.

design

struction.

is

Some

of the old examples are veneered with the cross

of walnut and lignum

for this

type of work and decoration.

as a drawer, especially in

sections

the broad writing flap offering a suitable position

vitae,

The curved

was sometimes used

some instances the top
the most suitable wood for a
frieze

chests of drawers, and in

carcase was raised on legs.

Italian

walnut

is

cabinet of this character, the striped figure being used to produce the " herringbone" pattern on the drawer fronts. The ends of the carcase and the front
edges of the drawer bearers were sometimes faced with cross-grained slips

and rounded

an expensive though very effective detail.

The spacious
ample scope for nests of drawers, pigeon holes, and small
lockers, and no one could wish for a more convenient and roomy cabinet.
off,

inside carcase gives

It

is

also

The

known

as a " Secretaire."

shows the falling front supported by rule joint stays. The

would be lined for writing purposes, and sometimes it would
include another small flap which could be raised to any slope.
The sectional view also shows the rebated joint of the carcase bottom
section

inside of the

fall

-i Veneer,- Lippiho-

Methods of forming Lippings.

and corresponding rebate on the fall. During the eighteenth century Sheraton
produced many examples of this kind, ornamented with characteristic details
and veneering, and further improved the mechanical action of the fall. This
was effected by introducing pilasters at each side, and allowing the interior to
overlap the same on the inside
a cavity was thus formed between the
stationery case and the carcase ends, in which a club iron movement operated.
This is fully explained in the chapter on " Mechanical Actions," and has the
advantage of providing a support almost entirely invisible from the front. The
constructive features of this cabinet do not require special comment, the
drawings conveying all necessary information apart from actual workshop
;

practice.

Varieties of Linings. This section of work, properly speaking, belongs to

Table Lining," an industry confined to covering flat surfaces of tables with
leather or substitutes for same, and lining cabinetwork with velvet or other
material of a like character.
A few words regarding this branch, however, are
very necessary when the lining of falls is being dealt with. " Lippings " are first
necessary to receive the leather, f. I., II., and III. showing methods of forming them
the first example being only used in cabinet shelves, and effected by gauging a
"

7o

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

CARCASE WORK

171

from the edge, cutting down to depth with a chisel. The best lining is
Morocco," a fine kind of leather, prepared from goat-skin, tanned with
" Roan " is
" sumach," and so called because it was first prepared by the Moors
"
an imitation of the above, made from sheep-skin and Skiver" is a more inferior
line

"

from split sheep-skin, and dyed to a large number of colours.

Linings are fixed with a special preparation of paste to a toothed groundwork,
and finished flush with lipping. With large surfaces the skins are butt jointed
when laying. Various fancy borders complete the work, and these are executed
with a heated branding tool, consisting of a wheel with a pattern upon the
imitation, prepared

This presses down the material, leaving a repeat pattern, in some cases
neatest finish is, however, without the gilding, and is termed "blind"

edge.

The

gilt.

bordering.

A Secretaire Bookcase

(see next page).

Secretaire bookcases were quite a feature of eighteenth century work, and

many

fine

examples were made by Chippendale. The top parts were enclosed

by barred doors, or flush, as shown in the illustration, p. 172.
The writing drawer is drawn
forward, and the front released by pressing

iiinfipnnpsnssnn
IIIHIIMIIHII

na

1.

View showing Position

Thumb

Catch.

of

Arrangement of Stationery Cases.

thumb catches

one edge of front is

fixed to both the sides (see f. 1 above)
and also the bottom, see enlarged detail. Dolphin hinges are fixed as
illustrated, and quadrant stays prevent the drawer front falling lower than a
Dolphin hinges are described in detail in the chapter on " Brasshorizontal line.
work." The bottom of the drawer, f in. thick, is either cut from solid stuff and
tongued into the sides, or it can be framed together see also enlarged end view
of drawer.
It is prevented from withdrawing beyond the distance required by
fixing two pieces of springy oak underneath, which fit flush into the bottom
when inserting the drawer, and stop against the drawer when withdrawing.
The upper doors are mitred, clamped, and veneered, with carving glued on after
Fig. 2 shows the arrangement
polishing, bottom doors framed and rebated.
of stationery case, and f. 3 an alternate detail, with height increased to 8 in.
;

rebated,

72

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

zzzzzzzzz:

mz
SECTlOn^] L -VIEWWITH- SECRETAIRE-

DRAWER. EXTENDED

""' f
'fcnzzzzzz
r; //////// /
,

mi:

%^^

'

mm

vnrm-.

w/m^sw^
)//////7A&ri--'.\<.\.<.\\\

n n mi

^
IDT

\j

rcssMT -Vkw*

^X

Scale- for^.
ELEVflTIOM- AMD-

OW

SECT
i

'

L: VI

E^' -

Secretaire Bookcase.

SlDE-VlEVOF- SECRE1
TAURF^. -

CARCASE WORK

i73

Jardinieres.
1, was generally used for ferns, &c, standing in
modern ideas of decoration have almost displaced
shown in plan, the interior being divided into two parts,

This type of furniture, see

f.

front of large wall mirrors, but

The shape is
and lined with lead or

them.

zinc.

Bevelled jointing

used for the curved ends,

is

Inch

SCALE

vnmm

\m>iM

1.

rail being cut from solid stuff, veneered and moulded.

The
framed up, the interior linings having a flange or collar lapping
over the inside edge. Smaller types of jardinieres are common, and are used
for fern pots on tables and stands.

the curved plinth

cap moulding

is

A Dressing Chest
The drawings on

p.

174 show,

in

(see next page).

the bottom part, a suitable treatment

when

the chest stands alone, with

a small separate toilet mirror

placed upon
part

it.

illustrates

tion frequently

in

in

parts,

the circular

mirror,

and shelf.
The
methods adopted in executing such work are of a
general character, and apply
2. Method of Glueing up a Circular Frame.
to many other examples of
kind.
A diagram shows the construction of the carcase, and a full drawer
drawers,

this

employed
top

dressing -chest
viz.,

The upper
a construc-

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

174

VIEW

pLflfN

VlE^- SHEWIHG COMSTI^VJOTIOM OF COPBOfl^D'

-ON -XX

Sc^LE--

ll

ll

lll|

Dressing Chest.

=E

4 FEET

CARCASE WORK

'*5

is introduced to serve also as cupboard bottoms, these being dovetail

housed into the division and end the drawer runner is also shown, and the method
A circular glass frame with cross-banded front
of connecting it to the rail.
is made by preparing a framing of whitewood (see f. 2, p. 173), the inside cut
This acts as a mould for building up the glass frame. Three
to the mirror size.
One piece is sprung into
strips of thin pine are prepared with toothed faces.
The butt joint should be cut slightly
the opening and forced against the wood.
long to allow the strip to press against the shape. This process is repeated with
the other strips, which should be warmed and glued before they are sprung into

division

2.

position.

If carefully

the frame

is

done, cripples

down with

in

the stuff will not occur, and the joint

Upon completion

of glueing and drying,

withdrawn and veneered, or faced up and moulded according to

can be rubbed

the hand.

1.
The small
The connection of the standards is illustrated in
made as shown, and the standards are slip dovetailed into the shaped
The back is also shown, but this would be screwed in position after

the design.

carcase
shelf.

f.

is

This shaped back is notched at both ends, and the

thus allowing the moulding to run through to the
back line. Segmental building up is used for the shaped head, or it may be
cut from solid stuff, and dovetailed into the standards.
Fig. 2 shows an alternate
treatment, veneered and inlaid, for the cupboard doors.
the standards were fixed.
shelf

fits

into the back

rail,

Music Cabinets.
The arrangements for holding music in furniture are very diverse, ranging
The
from a fitted seat to a substantial cabinet, with tray-lined upper part.
dwarf music cabinet shown on p. 176 has four drawers fitted in the lower part,

176

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

CARCASE WORK

*77

providing storage capacity for bound volumes and portfolios, and a cupboard
Music cabinets of this
fitted with sliding trays intended for sheet music.
type are essentially a product of the twentieth century, many of them

embracing mechanical features

in falling fronts to racks, &c.

The

decorative

treatment of the example shown is in Italian walnut with inlays of snakewood.

The cupboard doors are mitre clamped and veneered, and the lines are
curved

the

to

inlaid

design

shown by cutting a template of

{-in.

grooves

of

f.

in

cut

are

alongside.

up

building

patterns

on

described

in

is

tem-

position,

with

and cutter as

stock
in

This

hardwood.

porarily fixed

indicated

The
the

and

scratch

process

veneered

drawer fronts
Chapter IX.

1.

Use

of Scratch Stock against

is

curved stand is illustrated, built

up with square shoulders and

The

veneered.

tray

detail

is

similar to that described in con-

nection with a tray wardrobe in

this chapter, with slips fixed to
false

ends

detail).

(see

also

enlarged

front elevation of a

music cabinet with falling front

is

shown

in

f.

Height

4 FEET

2.

MUSIC CABINET
WITH -FALLING
l<3-

FR.ONT

Curved Template.

178

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

^^mM^^m^.^(mr^wih:Mr^^jm^\m^^

A Flemish Cabinet.

CARCASE WORK

Details of Flemish Cabinet.

179

180

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

A Tall-Boy
This
is

is

Cabinet.

a development of the "tall-boy" chest of drawers, in which a stand

substituted for the lower chest.

The stand

Queen Anne work, other examples of which

is

quite characteristic of

modern

are given elsewhere in the book.

Detail -of -end

two thirds

CORNICE -TWO
THIRDS FULL

SIZE

of under. FRflMING

Fu^rs

2.

Type

of

William and
Mary Turning.

The ends are put together first, and framed up as shown in detail, i, the divisions
and bottoms are then connected, and the apron piece or curved rail in front is
fitted over the bottom, as shown in sketch
it is secured by dowelling, and stub
f.

CARCASE WORK

i8 2

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Design for a Cabinet by

Mr

A.

J.

Jessop.

{Reproduced by permission of the Editor oj the " Cabinet Maker.")

CARCASE WORK

183

tenoned into the legs. The centre legs are made separately, and turned pins
about f in. diameter fit into the apron piece. Details of the leg for this cabinet
are shown on p. 116 in connection with a writing table of the same period.
The
enlarged detail of turning, f. 2, on p. 180, is of the William and Mary type,
executed in oak. When either kind of leg is used, the underframing is made
separately, and the feet have turned pins fitting through the frame into the leg
above.
Fig. 3 is a sectional view of the cornice moulding with cross-grained
facings, a special feature of Queen Anne work.
The end panel mouldings and the
surbase

in this

job are also cross-grained.

Fig. 4 is a plan of the underframing.

page shows a simple arrangement for a bureau flap,
by which the supporting slider is withdrawn or pushed home as the flap is opened
or closed.
It can be applied to any bureau flap which is supported by the usual

The

illustration

on

this

Simple Arrangement

slider, as

for a

Bureau Flap.

seen in the designs on pp. 126 and 146. The movement is made of
Both ends are riveted to a short piece of the same
I in. in width.

thin plate brass

material,

and

in

such a

way

that the centres

are again fixed into a flat plate which

work true and

easy.

These pieces

prepared for screwing into the slider

and flap as shown. To obtain the length of the bar, pull out the slider to the
required distance, in this case about one-third of its whole length, take half that
distance from the bottom edge of the flap to the centre of the bar, and then from
that point to the back end of the slider is the length of the brass bar, allowing
for the plate.
When this movement is used the solid shelf is not carried right
through, or it is cut short at both ends to make a passage for the flange to work.
case is made short and the filling-in piece cut to allow
For other movements see chapter on " Brasswork."

The pigeon-hole
bar.

is

for the

CHAPTER

VIII.

BEDSTEADS AND MISCELLANEOUS FURNITURE.

Designs,

Working

Details,

and Full

Diagrams of French, Four-Poster, and Ordinary

size

Clock Cases Grandfather, Section of Carcase, Details of MouldHinges, &c. Balloon and Hanging Clock Cases, and how to make them
Chippendale Commode with Curved Front and Ends Adjustable Pole and Wing
Fire Screens Folding Draught Screen Swing Toilet Glass with Drawers Wall
Mirror Hanging and China Cabinets Combination Hall Stand and Seat
Revolving Bookcase Dinner Waggon Grand Piano Corner Cabinet Rising
Dumb Waiter Hall Seat Pedestal.
Wood

Bedsteads

ings,

Apart from the special furniture for dining, drawing, and bed
many articles such as clock cases, screens, &c, which are

rooms, there

used

are

These are described

enlarge on furniture for

ever, only

mean

and

in

all.

would be possible to
kitchens, bathrooms, and nurseries, which would, how-

in detail in the following pages,

it

a repetition of constructive principles given in such chapters as

those on Table and Carcase Work.

A French Bedstead
in

(see opposite).

This type of bedstead has been almost superseded by the English pattern,
which the wooden rails are dispensed with, and iron bars with key blocks on
posts

substituted,

wooden

but

general

would

description

incomplete
without an example of this kind. The sectional detail of foot on p.
185 shows the
of

posts
built

faced

up

on both

in

bedsteads

up and

fluted

be

the

foot

end

is

three thicknesses and cross veneered

sides.

This construction

large panels in French furniture,

is

and

usual with

rendered
very necessary when dealing with large flat
surfaces.
The end is housed into the posts,
and the carved mouldings are glued on after
polishing.
The head is framed up with the wide

bottom rail, carving, and paterae as at foot.

Both capping mouldings may be worked in the
solid, and fitted to the shapes, or they may be
a template and glued on to the face sides, veneering the top edge

Connection of Rails

worked
after

to

is

levelling

off.

at

Ends.

Box

spring

mattresses

are

generally

used

with

those

BEDSTEADS AND MISCELLANEOUS FURNITURE

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

i86

bedsteads, and

The

rails are

fillets are screwed to the inside of rails for supporting them.

stub tenoned and bolted to the ends, see diagram on previous

page, and also the view of a French bedstead bolt in f. I below.

The nut should
be cut into the posts, and the spaces filled in with pieces of wood.

Bedsteads

(see opposite).

These bedsteads do not require any detailed description of the conand are only given as types. The attachment of side
rails, however, must
be noted
they are similar to an iron
bedstead, with side rails and key blocks screwed to the posts,
see f. 2.
Chain mattresses are frequently used in construction,

wood side rails.

Fillets should be
frame underneath, close to side rails,
thus preventing the frame from moving about wooden slats are

junction
fixed

to

with

iron

or

the mattress

Sketch- of

bedstead

BOLT-

i.

2.

Detail of

Key
also occasionally used

wood about

3 in.

notched into

wide and f

in.

rails,

Block.

and are made of some serviceable

thick.

Four Poster Bedstead

(see p. 188).

The bedstead on

p. 188 is of this type, and was manufactured by Messrs

Son, of Tottenham Court Road.
It consists of a framed-up head, with
turned posts at the foot supporting a canopy or tester. These beds were most
frequently made during the Elizabethan and Jacobean period, and the bed itself

Heal

&

was usually a " truckle " or " trundle " type, quite separate from the posts and
canopy and could be drawn out when required. A later development of this
type of furniture is the French pattern, with construction similar to that illustrated on p. 185.
The head and foot frames are attached by rails, with a canopy
projected from the head.
Chippendale and Sheraton both produced very ornate
specimens of four-poster bedsteads, in which the use of drapery was a prevailing
feature, drawn up into folded swags at the sides when not in use.
The framing
and posts of these latter types were connected with rails a decided improvement
on the earlier examples and canopies were panelled and made in the form of a
cornice, fitting on to the head framing with holes bored at the bottom to receive
turned pins on the pillars.
Fine examples of bed pillars are shown in the
;

BEDSTEADS AND MISCELLANEOUS FURNITURE

187

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

books of Chippendale and Sheraton, and well repay careful study.
are well represented in the Victoria and Albert
The very ornate character of these early
and Bethnal Green Museums.
four-poster beds is accounted for by the social customs of the period,
when the bed-chamber was

original

The Elizabethan types

used as a recep-

frequently

tion-room.

Clock Cases.

A
clock
It

is

"hanging" or wall
shown on next page.

was executed

and

Institute,

carcase

of

consists

Shore-

at

Technical

ditch

formed by slip dovetailing

the
between
bottom
the

and

sides,

top

the

The

dovetailed.

lap

is

front

is

and inlaid with

veneered
corner edgings of cross-cut

kingwood on the

The

bottom.

method

the

and
shows

sides

plan

of

fixing

the

tongued into the sides

and bottom, and the back
A
is
rebated and screwed.
door in this case is not
front,

required

sary

A Modern

" Four- Poster."

{By Heal &* Son.)

access

for

movement
the

if

this

back

end
to

is

the

ends or

fixed

The

"

to

the

by a bracket attached
the back plate, screwed

riveted

A Balloon Clock

The

it.

Before setting out or designing

through
cases, the movement should be obtained and the case made accordingly.
to

the

neces-

removed

is

by unscrewing
movement

to
is

clock

Case.

shown on next page, is simple in construction,

prove troublesome unless properly handled. A sectional
view shows the construction, viz., a block of beech or mahogany is cut to outline,
"

balloon

but the veneering

clock case, also

may

BEDSTEADS AND MISCELLANEOUS FURNITURE

Scale

189

fpr,

hanging ci?ctc

CASE

4>"
5"

Front View or

SATINW99D HANGING ClPCK

CASE

..5"

Secti<?nalview

AND PLAN-

11 FOT
VIEW SHEWING
&ACIC CPVER_

Front

view

Ill

hnhnln-H

SCALAR,
fes
BALLON CLPCK. CASE

Hanging and Balloon Clock Cases,

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

190

with allowance inside for a short swing pendulum, the back and front are glued
upon this shape and levelled off. Well tooth and size the case, and prepare
pine cauls to
to

fit

the shape (see

cramp under the

f.
i), also prepare three stiff pieces of cardboard
Well glue the groundwork and allow to chill.
Thoroughly heat the small caul and
cardboard, and place the veneer in

cauls.

position at top, also a block inside

case
caul

diagram),

(see
to

hand-screw

the shape, and

carefully

bend the veneer down each

side,

then place the side cardboards and

cauls in position, and well

together across the case

block

placed

inside

will

cramp

a strong

prevent

the joints breaking under pressure.

The hand-screws
at the top

Veneering with

Wooden
in front,

2.

Cauls.

which

Veneering with Sheet

Zinc.

fits

shown

will

lay

and a cover is fixed at the back. Brass

and tightened by set screws in the back rim

into a circular hole,

straps from the bezel are secured

as

should be fixed

and the veneer

down without buckling.

The usual movement is shown in
this case.
The bezel is attached to
the movement and forms a rebate
then

1.

first,

in section.

Bracket Clocks.
This

is

a term applied to nearly

all

small clocks, and originated in the late

eighteenth century because of their position,

The semi-head

is

a typical shape (see

plished by screwing a piece of

stiff

f.

i.e.,

zinc firmly to

also screwed temporarily to the bottom.

The

as shown, and hand-screwing right across the

standing on a wall bracket.

the veneering of which

2),

two blocks

pressure

is

is

accom-

another block is
obtained by cramping
;

flat sides.

Grandfather Clock Cases.

The measured drawings and

detail of a

clock case, reproduced

by

per-

mission of C. Vickers, Esq., represent the characteristic detail and proportion of

The
the transitory period between William and Mary and Queen Anne.
and
semi-headed
door
influence of the latter period is clearly indicated in the

curved part of hood, as well as the bulbous shaped terminals of Dutch origin at
the top. This example also illustrates the application of fancy hinges, shown in
the centre is brought forward and causes
detail, and their position on the door
This conthe door moulding to clear the groundwork immediately it is opened.
;

BEDSTEADS AND MISCELLANEOUS

FURNI LURE
BR.ASS-TER.

MINflLS CAPS
AND BASES OP

COLUMNS

A Grandfather Clock

Case.

191

92

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

structive principle

is

also

shown

in

the

Queen Anne cabinet in Chapter VII.

method of connecting it to the shaft,

perspective view of the hood shows the

the sides of which are as indicated

sectional

in

for

front

elevation, with

and so forming a groove

the hood fillet to run in.
The

fillet

fixed,

side panels are in this case of glass,

but

pierced

brass

quently used

in

panels

are

fre-

eighteenth century

The construction of end panels

determined by design, with a wide
rail
connecting them at top, the
curved portion of hood being bent
round and strengthened from inside.
A back is fixed to the shaft portion
of case, filling in the opening of
work.
is

hood when
details,

in

position.

characteristic

Moulding

of this period

woodwork, are shown, and

same is illustrated in
also shows
tional view
this
in

fixing of

the
sec-

the

construction of the shaft, with stiles

running through to ground, and the

round bearers or
surbase mitred
cross bars screwed to ground frame,
and completed by the addition of
Details of
the surbase moulding.
brass caps and bases of pillars are
illustrated on p. 191, and also the
An
plan of the column and door.
alternate decorative treatment suitable
for modern work is indicated on this
page, in which simplicity of out-

A Modern

Grandfather Clock Case.

line

is

arrangement

of contrasting figures in veneer,

the

keynote, the decoration

by the judicious
and the application of inlay.

being

A Chippendale Commode

obtained

(see opposite).

The drawings show a Chippendale commode, shaped in plan with

bombe " front and carved legs, and " tern " feet. This piece, like many of
Chippendale's productions, is distinctly Louis XV. in character, from which period
many of his shapes and ornament details were taken the " Rococo" detail being

"

perhaps the most conspicuous instance.

Many

points, involved in the production

BEDSTEADS AND MISCELLANEOUS FURNITURE

A Chippendale Commode.
l

9.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

94

of commodes, in this and also the French periods, are embodied

The

in this

example.

and plan illustrate the main characteristics, and when

work of this character, shaped only in plan, is to be produced, it is customary,
in addition to a working drawing conveying main details to the workman, to
supply a carved pinewood model of one corner, carved up until the proper
proportion and curves are decided, glueing on extra stuff where necessary, or, as
an alternative, modelling clay is used upon a wooden groundwork. The best
construction is then determined from the model, and templates can be prepared
With " bombe " front work it is
for legs and other shapes from the model.
necessary to make a complete commode in soft wood, which is then modelled or
carved up to the design. The advantage of such procedure is obvious, when
considering that any alteration to the actual ccmmode in an advanced stage
would necessitate almost reconstructing the whole piece.
When cutting the legs, a template must be prepared to
elevation, section,

an outline on the diagonal line B B (see enlarged detail

on p. 193). The legs are marked out to this template, and
cut to shape
it will be necessary to square two sides of
the front legs above the line of carcase bottom
and when
this is accomplished, rails, bottom, and end are prepared.
These latter are shaped in section only, and are best
cut from 6 or 9 in. stuff, and glued up to the required
width one end must be scribed to the inside of leg and
dowelled up, completing the end by dowelling into the
straight back legs.
It is certainly advisable in work of
this kind to glue up both ends before fitting in the front
part, grooving the ends for division frames and bottoms
before doing so.
The drawer rails must be marked from
the model.
For this reason the fronts are simply driven
in hand tight on the model, thus permitting proper templates to be made from rails.
These are cut square

Wing

of Draught

the line of greatest projection, and mortised and

tenoned into the legs, completing each drawer rail or
division by framing up as shown in sectional plan.
Drawer fronts are best cut from solid stuff to the approximate front shapes,
and then fitted into the spaces, and stopped by temporarily glueing blocks
The " bombe " shape can then be worked with planes and
behind them.
" floats," leaving the carved part, and when completed the fronts are withdrawn
and gauged to thickness (see sectional view).
If necessary the fronts are
veneered with sand bags, and the carving shapes are glued on. The drawers can
then be put together, as illustrated in the enlarged detail. Sides are set in from
each end of drawer front, and slip dovetailed into the fronts. Pieces are then
glued to the legs between the division frames and behind the drawer fronts,
inserting guides in line with inside edges.
It should be noted that with this
method of construction it is necessary to make the end rails of drawer divisions
of greater width in order to provide the extra material for drawer sides to
run upon.
Screen.

to

Plate XXI.

Satinwood Wardrobe.

By the Bath Cabinetmakers Co.

[To

fact

page 194.

Plate XXII.

Mahogany China Cabinet.

(Designed by

Mr

George Jack, and made by Messrs Morris 6 Co., Oxford

Street,

IV.)

BEDSTEADS AND MISCELLANEOUS FURNITURE

195

Folding Screens.
The

commonest type

simplest and

consisting of framed-up wings with silk or

of

screen

wood

the

is

threefold

Knuckle

panels.

kind,

joint screen

hinges are used for connecting the wings, the fixing of which is described in
The sketch on p. 194 illustrates one wing suitable for

chapter on "Brasswork."

A heavier type used in hotels, clubs, &c, has a moulded joint

between the wings which renders it quite draught-proof. Special hinges are
necessary for this screen, which are also described in the chapter on " Brasswork,"
and the joint itself is dealt with in " Joints and their Application."
a draught screen.

Fire Screens
The Sheraton
glass

fire

and tapestry.

(see

196).

p.

screen illustrated consists of a flush frame, rebated for

Standards are tenoned into

feet, and these are connected

by the curved rail under

panel

rail is

at the top in the

not shown

back

plan.

adjusted

readily
height,

in

also fixed

and

It

to

for this

side,
is

any

reason

the standards are grooved,

the

frame

them.

fitting

inside

Screw movements

are illustrated for support-

ing the frame, but springs

Pole
Screen

fixed at either side of the

Fitting.

2.

1.

Fire Screen.

top

rail

pressing against

on the same principle of those illustrated in f. 2.

in f. 1, the outside wings are hinged to the
centre frame, and the outside stiles of these frames are carried through in the
form of a lee.
the back are

winged

more

fire

satisfactory,

screen

is

illustrated

Pole Screens

(see p.

196).

A Louis XVI. example is illustrated, drawn in elevation and plan, and f. 2

on this page shows a steel spring attachment. The panel is adjusted by simply
pushing upwards or downwards. These pole screens were fashionable in the
eighteenth century, and Chippendale, Hepplewhite, and Sheraton designed
them in their own styles. The design of the one shown is similar to Sheraton
work, as he adapted the Louis XVI. details. Various methods were used for
the construction of the base, the commonest of which were the triangular block
with curved sides, and the claw feet but the method shown in the design tends
to lessen the length of the pole and gives it a better proportion.
They were
usually made of satin or rosewood, and the shape of the screen frame varied
from circular, shield, and oval, to square or rectangular.
;

96

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Polk and Fire Scrkkns.

BEDSTEADS AND MISCELLANEOUS FURNITURE

A Corner Cabinet

(see p.

197

198).

As mentioned previously in connection with the drawing of a hanging

cabinet, these examples adequately illustrate the constructional features of
corner cabinets.
A drawer is introduced in this example, although it is
not recommended where there is not sufficient running surface. The drawer
shape to the plan, and as the sides are of necessity very
is similar in
short, two muntings are fixed underneath the drawer (see f. 1) with centred
dovetailed grooves.
Runners are also fixed to the drawer rail and back, with
a dovetailed key piece fixed upon it and sliding in the dovetailed groove. These
The construction of the top carcase is
act as guides when working the drawer.

1.

Clamp on Top.

View showing Underneath Side of Drawer.

illustrated,

showing the dovetailed

joints of carcase top.

solid top with carved

used to form a cornice. Fig. 2 illustrates the method of clamping this

piece to avoid the end grain for carving upon.
To fix the bottom in lower carcase,
groove about I in. deep into back frames and pilasters, tenoning at front. When
the carcase is glued together screw the bottom through back frames and well
block the angles underneath.
Both bottom doors are flush veneered with
mouldings mitred round. Clamped ends prevent the doors casting, and they

edges

is

are also veneered on both sides.

meeting

The

detail of

moulding

is

shown and

also the

joint.

A Dinner Waggon

(see p.

199).

Dinner waggons are intended to carry extra dishes and dining-room

accessories not immediately required on the table, and as such should contain
good shelf, cupboard, and drawer space. This is amply provided for in the type
Revolving
illustrated, which is far superior to the " shelf and column " variety.
lining
The
castors should be fixed on the feet, for easy transit about the room.
sketch
A
top.
slot
to
the
under the top should be framed up and
screwed
indicates the connection of drawer rail with side, with the mitred moulding above
the pillar.
The doors should be of three-ply oak, and the panelling obtained
by glueing i-in. strips of oak on the surface, the outside margin being mitred
round the edge of door. This serves a double purpose, i.e., in concealing the
When the
three-ply joints, and showing the required margin for panelling.
pieces have been fitted and glued to the groundwork, it is levelled off and
cleaned up before mitreing and glueing the mouldings (see detail of door
mould). The drawer fronts are rebated to receive the moulding, see sectional
view of drawer front on the line A A.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

98

Scale for_
ELEVATION

Inches

A Corner China

Cabinet.

BEDSTEADS AND MISCELLANEOUS FURNITURE

200

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Revolving Bookcases.
There are three

different

methods of construction used in these bookcases,

on next page.
The sectional view shows
case of pine faced up with walnut it also shows

the best type being illustrated

detail of centre post, in this

the shelves grooved into the post.

This is further illustrated in the plan, in

which is seen the construction of the
framed shelves. These are secured on
the outside by the pilasters, screwed to
the shelves, or, as in the majority of
cases, screwed laths instead of the solid

piece.

patent

late

revolving action

much

illustrated,

easier

is

manipu-

to

than the other details described

The plan also shows the shape

below.

of base board, with socket plate screwed

in

The second

position.

detail

is

boxed up of
are

filled in

process

constructive

given on this page.

is

The

with a block.

effected

post

is

and both ends

^-in. stuff,

revolving

by means of a turned

bored through the pillar bottom,

i -in. pin turned at
top, forming
a shoulder as shown, which receives the
whole weight of bookcase. A base is
made of if -in. stuff X, to which the
pillar,

with a

centre pillar

is

shown, and

is

mortised, and bolted as

further strengthened

the addition of four brackets.

by

third

construction consists of building up the

bookcase with a faced-up centre post,
and fixing a short pillar to the X piece.
The bottom of bookcase rests upon four
flush plate castors, sunk into the base,
and revolves upon them, but this is the
least satisfactory

of bookcase.

Views of a Revolving Bookcase.

shelves

as

method

illustrated

the best, but four shelves are frequently used to form one
are

concealed

by the book

stops,

the

for this kind

The system

position of which

tier,
is

of jointing

undoubtedly
and the joints

is

shown

in

the

diagram on this page. The solid side supports illustrated on next page are
an unusual but effective treatment, executed in Italian walnut, with inlays of
rosewood, snakewood, and ebony, and herring-bone inlays of Italian walnut.
Spots are introduced in lines with the shelves, concealing the screw fixings.

Hall-Stands
the

(see p. 203).

Although hall-stands are generally simple in character, seldom exceeding

bare accommodation for wearing apparel, sticks, and umbrellas, they

BEDSTEADS AND MISCELLANEOUS FURNITURE

r, y,....~

.-11)11

Sectional.- view-

Elevation ofa-side

20I

om Line X-X

4-

f^^NS^SW^^

Plan of
STAND

Sectional- plan
rtP-R-flNGEMENT-

shewing-

OF SHELVES

Revolving Bookcase.

FEE.T

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

202
are

made more imposing and

receive a large

advantage of

piece of furniture.

providing

for

when the hall is of sufficient size to

The example illustrated has the added

useful

ordinary

receptacle for indispensable accessories.

requirements, and

The hanging

also

seat

with

capacity could very well

be increased by adding another panel to the back thus increasing the space
between enclosures and also by inserting cross rails between the side frames,
and adding pegs as required to serve for hats. The features of this stand are a
panelled back with pilasters and consoles supporting the cornice. The whole
Fig. I
of the front part is framed together and mortised to the back framing.
noticed
that
the
will
be
It
back.
is a sketch showing the construction of the
across
the
unsightly
line
an
avoiding
shoulder line falls behind the pilaster, thus
seen
from
this
also
be
will
tongue
top rail. The arrangement of tenons and

Sketch of
with

Top

Rail Joint

2.

Sketch showing Construction

of Enclosures.

Stile.

diagram. The bottom part of back is panelled with a flush surface at the front,
not shown. Fig. 2 is a sketch showing the inside return of enclosures. A space
The
is left underneath the rail for withdrawal of pan into the centre part.
outside returns of enclosures arc panelled similar to front, and the bottom is
grooved in position, as shown in section. All stiles are allowed to run right
through to floor line, and a skirting is mitred round after the whole job is
together.

The

shows the arrangement of

sectional view also

cornice.

are fixed at intervals, and the moulding between the consoles

is

Brackets

made wider

to

overhang the brackets. Wooden pegs are tenoned through the back frame, and
they should be cut square to profile, and
secured by wedging from behind
worked to an octagonal shape. A sketch is also shown of the pan section with
This forms a supporting flange or collar, necessary in some stands.
rolled edge.
The arrangement of the seat will be understood from the diagram. A threesided frame is made, housed between the enclosures, with a clamped top
hinged to the back rail. The bevelling at panel heads in the back is obtained
;

BEDSTEADS AND MISCELLANEOUS FURNITURE

203

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

2o 4

by

setting back the panel from the face,

rail

and spokeshaving the square edge of

to the required shape.

A Hanging Cabinet
The hanging

cabinet illustrated here with veneered doors

as a medicine chest, as distinct from the other

doors, used

cornice

The

is

is

also referred to

example with moulded and glazed

separate carcase with surmounting

frequently met with, but appears hardly necessary in such small work.

construction employed in the

ritjht

the display of china.

for

(see opposite).

through to the dust-board.

example

first

The

is

to carry the outside ends

inside ends are attached to the carcase

top by pinning, and the rest of joints, carcase top to sides, and bottoms to ends,
and dovetailed. The frieze rail is grooved into the ends, and

are housed

veneered when glued up.

Enlarged

detail of cornice

decoration composed of alternate East and

mouldings

West Indian satinwood

is

given, the

dentils.

The

carcase back should be framed up, and the shaped piece at bottom tongued to
the panelled frame, thus avoiding unsightly shoulder lines.

A Hanging China Cabinet

This

example,

together

with

the

bodies

and the corner cabinet

above

dealt with
all

(see opposite).

this

in

chapter,

practically

also

em-

the points likely to be met with

this class of work.

The plan shows the
back frames rebated and screwed together,
and tongued into the pilasters. The carcase
top and bottom are rebated, dovetailed,
and screwed into the frames and pilasters.
in

The

top

is

moulded with indentations carved

bead run out as shown. The

door frame is dovetailed together, and the
Sectional Plan of Corner Cupboard.
moulding on edge of bars is also run out.
To work the wave bars, they must be
shaped to plan before cutting the elevation curves and matching the moulding.
at intervals, the

A Pedestal
The drawing
portions and

(see opposite).

of a Chippendale pedestal

method of preparation

is

given to illustrate general pro-

Sheraton, Hepplewhite, and

produced these pedestals, and the differences consist rather in the
decoration than in the proportion and construction.
The actual groundwork
is very similar in all cases.
The shaft is mitred and tongued together, and
the base is built up and veneered, and a subsidiary top is
well blocked inside
dowelled to the shaft. The carvings are roughly cut to profile, rebated and
scribed to the groundwork.
These are glued in position, and screwed where
possible from the inside, and finally carved to drawing.
The sectional view
shows the building up of the curved top.

Adam

also

for carvings.

BEDSTEADS AND MISCELLANEOUS FURNITURE

205

hdl_F FROjsT E.LEVATI9N

AND SECTIQWL-VIEW-OF
fl

SflTlNW<?PD HANGING-

CABINET

Hanging Cabinets and Pedestal.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

2o6

A Toilet Glass
This pattern

toilet

glass

(see opposite).

with drawers

below

both serviceable and

and the bottom part is
put together as shown in sketches.
is

decorative,

Secret lapped dovetailing

for

used

is

the top, and a rebate

thus

is

formed to receive the moulding

at the ends
this is also continued
along the front edge.
;

The

inside

with

similar

joints

dovebottom,

slip

top and

the

into

tailed

divisions

vertical

should be housed and

the

in

hori-

on
next page). Bevelled dovetailing
in top drawers is also illustrated
with cocked beads round edges.
The glass frame is mortised and
tenoned together and veneered
with Italian walnut on the face
side, a -]-in. edging of purplewood
is glued round the
frame, firmly
bound with tape until dry. If any
difficulty is experienced in bending the edging, a heated iron bar
will expedite matters.
The wood
is moistened on
the outside and
bent round the bar until the
desired
curve is obtained (see
zontal

f.

divisions

To make

2).

of moulding

is

shown, and

These

1.

Inlaid

Hanging Wall

(see

sketch

the feet a length

worked

cut

off

to section
in

lengths.

and

tongued
together, the curves cut and the
feet screwed to the carcase.

Mirror.

A Hanging Wall Mirror

are

mitred

(see above).

The frame in f. 1 is the modern successor to the carved girandoles and

candelabra mirrors of the late eighteenth century.
Rosewood is the material used, with a groundwork
After
of mahogany, and the inlay of satinwood.
out

setting

the

pattern

full

size

on

paper,

the

then pinned to groundwork and the joints secured with strips of paper.
When the veneer is laid the grooves are scratched

veneers are cut and

for inlay

and the

fitted,

lines inserted.

2.

Bending Lines round

Heated Bar.

BEDSTEADS AND MISCELLANEOUS FURNITURE

207

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

208

A Hall Seat

(see opposite).

This simple hall seat in oak with carved strapwork frieze (executed at
Shoreditch Technical Institute) illustrates the general proportions and sizes of
this class of furniture.
The back frame is moulded and housed into the posts,
tenoning the top and bottom rails, with the cap moulding dowelled to framing.

The

seat

is

tenoned at the front and well blocked underneath, with span

rail

stub tenoned into lees and screwed to seat.

A Dumb Waiter.
This

article of furniture, curiously

but appropriately named,

use as an additional receptacle for dishes.

of two

tiers

to

It

is

also

made

is

intended for

form

in circular

stand in the centre of a dining-table, revolving as required.

Dumb waiter movements

for the circular

type can be obtained to fit a turned pillar

The drawings below illustrate the

with plate or flange screwed to the top.

rising

and

falling pattern, the sectional

view showing the waiter with top

raised.

reference to the other sectional view shows a roller fixed in the post, and

the sliders connected with webbing.

When

not

in use,

the springs fixed to

outside slides are pressed

in,

allowing

the top part to descend, at the

same

time effecting a rising action in the

To
shelf, this fitting under the top.
counterbalance

the

difference

in

weight between the shelf and

top,

be fixed to

the

sheet

lead

should

underside of
of pillar
slide

is

shelf.

sectional plan

also shown, with the outside

grooved, which

is

to receive a

corresponding projection left on the

shelf, an additional preventive against
running untrue. The pillar is boxed
up as indicated in plan, mortised into
the stand at bottom, and further
strengthened by the addition of
curved brackets, a centre rail connecting the two pieces at the bottom.
Horizontal supports for shelves are
in bracket shape attached as shown
A Rising Dumb Waiter.
to the sliders, the top bracket is also
fixed to the lining up of top.
A centre rail is introduced between the inside sliders
under the shelf, acting as a gauge or binding between both slides. Various
materials were used in dumb waiters to connect the slides at bottom, such as
cord and catgut, working upon a double roller, but the fixing of these materials
is unsatisfactory, and webbing fixed as shown in sectional view is strong and
permits of proper fixing, as well as providing a much increased running surface.
An ovolo moulding is worked round three sides of the pillar at top, the outside
edges left square with a brass plate inserted to provide a seating for the spring.

BEDSTEADS AND MISCELLANEOUS FURNITURE

209

CHAPTER

IX.

VENEERS AND VENEERING MARQUETRY AND INLAYING.

Veneering, Decorative and Constructional

Veneers,

Saw-Cut, Knife-Cut, Hand-Cut

Curls Feathers, &c. Preparation Laying Finishing on Flat and Curved

Surfaces Treatment of Old Work Marquetry Buhl Work Inlaying, Wood,
Metal, Pearl, Ivory Stringing Banding Parquetry Intarsia.
Burrs

VENEERING is an old and decorative art. In the British Museum some

examples of Egyptian work may be seen which are thousands of years old.
From that day to this it has influenced the construction and design of household furniture.
In ancient Rome the choicest and costliest pieces of work were
the tables veneered with rare woods.
In Italy cabinets were veneered with
tortoiseshell, ivory, and ebony, and inlaid with pearl and precious stones.
In
the Dutch and French work of a later period it reached an exalted place in
furniture decoration, and in our own eighteenth century the masterpieces of
Sheraton and Hepplewhite which are so much coveted to-day are a witness to
To the ordinary
the utility and decorative advantages to be found in veneering.
householder the word " veneer " means to cover up cheap and shoddy work, or
to make a whitewood cabinet look like a mahogany one.
Hence the mistaken
idea that all veneering is bad work.
That such work is done must be admitted,
and this makes it more difficult to convince the public that veneered work, when
it is well and rightly done, and shows that it is veneer, is the best and most
effective work for the following reasons
I.
It is the only way to use the rare
woods such as " curls " in satinwood and mahogany, " burrs " in walnut or
amboyna, and cross-grained but pretty wood which would only twist if used in
the solid.
2. The extra layer of veneer tends to strengthen and preserve the
wood upon which it is laid. This is best illustrated in the Queen Anne work,
must of which is walnut veneered on oak, or yellow deal, which must have
perished but for the veneer.
gives the only opportunity
3. That veneering
for flat decoration in furniture, by using the grain of the wood for designs in
panels and on wide surfaces. 4. The process needs more care and thought in
the selection of wood, its preparation, application, and finish, than ordinary
"solid" work requires. These explanations are necessary because of the misunderstandings as to the right use of veneer, and the suspicions which naturally
:

arise

from them.

Veneers

are cut in two grades or thicknesses, which are

The first named

They are cut from

cut " and "knife-cut."

from

\.
;i

to

,',.

in.

known

as " saw-

are the thickest, and vary in thickness

the log with a large circular saw, and

Plate XXIII.

Cabinet with Dutch Marquetry

Late

Seventeenth Century.

(The Properly of Eden Dickson, Esq.)

[To face page 210.

VENEERS AND VENEERING

usually produce twelve or fourteen sheets to the inch.
are

much

and with the new machines

thinner,

a hundred in the

the

inch,

it

is

211
"

Knife-cut

"

veneers

possible to get from fifty to

very thin ones being used as picture mounts.

These are cut with rotary and flat knives. In the former the log is well steamed
and fixed between two stocks (like a leg in a lathe), and directly under a knife
The log is then forced round, and on to the knife, which
its whole length.
drops the required thickness at each revolution.
to get veneers almost

and enlarged as
acts

somewhat

any width, and by cutting

in the figured

like a plane.

maples used

The

log

is

By

this process

spirally the grain

for ships' cabins.

fixed on a rising table,

it

is

is

possible

accentuated

The

flat

knife

and the blade

works backwards and forwards, and takes a sheet off horizontally, the knife
being parallel with the grain. Before the introduction of machinery veneers
were cut by hand, and were usually | in. thick, which would allow of them being
planed.

grow on the outside of the tree

" Timber
"), they produce
The best known are amboyna, Italian
bea'utiful wood, and are very valuable.
Burrs are sold in " parcels," and in single
walnut, yew, elm, cherry, and ash.
" leaves," both knife and saw cut.
It is often possible to get good figure from
the " butt " ends of a log these too are treated and used like the " burrs."
" Curls " and " Feathers " are produced by the separation of the heart at
the junction of a branch with the main trunk, and consequently are limited in
length from 9 in. to 4 ft. They are usually confined to mahogany and satinwood, and good ones always fetch high prices.
Burrs are the excrescences, or

warts, which

trunk, and although a deformation (see chapter on

The

different " figures " or

"

mottles

"

in

mahogany

are

known

as " fiddle

Honduras wood, running across the

" Rain
grain, and named from the similar figure in maple on the backs of violins.
" Plum mottle,"
mottle," very like fiddle back, but with much longer mottlings.
from dark elliptical marks in the wood at frequent intervals resembling the shape
of a small plum. " Roe " is the name given to the showy dark flakes, which,
when broken, give such a fine effect of light and shade. They run with the
grain in a zigzag line, and though a similar figure is associated with East Indian
"
satinwood the " roe " on mahogany is usually wider. " Stopped " or " broken
mottles are also found on the outside wood, and consist of flame-like marks
and irregular figures of varying and spreading forms. West Indian satinwood
These
is either "mottled" or "flowered" against the "roe" of East Indian.
names would apply to figures in all woods more or less, and they are found
"Stripe" is applied to good Italian walnut. "Streaky"
singly or together.
" Blistered " to walnut and maple cut spirally to enlarge
to plain rosewood.
" Silver grain," " clash," or " felt," to the figure in oak, and " lacy,"
the figure.
to the rays in plane, but names vary in different yards and localities.
Preparation. For all general purposes the best hard wood to veneer upon,
called the "ground," is plain Honduras mahogany, principally because it warps
and shrinks less than most woods. In soft timbers the best is American yellow
Whatever
pine, which also warps less and contains less resin than other pines.
wood is used, it should be clean, dry, and as uniform in texture and straight in
A very hard wood like ebony, rosewood, yew, or satinwood,
grain as possible.
back," found chiefly on the outside edges of

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

212

should not be veneered on a soft wood like pine or basswood, as the ground is
Where light-coloured veneers
likely to absorb more than its share of the glue.
are used, as oak, holly, maple, or satinwood, the glue should be whitened with
If this is not done there is a danger
flake white or bleached with oxalic acid.
of the dark glue being forced into the veneer and showing through when cleaned
In all veneering there is a danger from
off, thus spoiling the whole surface.

what

is

known

as the

or shrinkage in drying, which causes warping.

" pull "

The

following methods are adopted to prevent this, and as they are all good, they
should only be used where they apply best to the circumstances and the nature
of the work to be done
is

made

(i)

to the chapter

"

on

Veneer on the heart side of the wood.

Timber " (Shrinkage and Warpage), it

away from the

somewhat balanced by this natural

that a board warps

covered,

it

is

If reference
will

be seen

heart, so that the "pull" of the veneer

is

When

wide surfaces are to be

a good thing to cut the boards up the centre, and reverse the
force.

(2)

edges before rejointing, when the forces of contraction are fairly equalised. (3)
A method adopted in France is that of cross-veneering, especially for panels
which have a finished pattern on the face. Plane the panel perfectly flat, size
both sides, and with " knife-cut " veneer it at right angles to the grain of the

This makes a " three-ply " or " lamination," and is generally successful,
if the panel is kept flat when drying.
(4) By mitre clamps, as in bureau flaps
and (5) if the wood is dry and well chosen, sized
(see chapter on " Construction ")
on the face to prevent undue absorption of moisture, damped on the back, and
kept flat when drying and until dry, it should keep flat. The reason for damping the back is to equalise the pull or swelling of the fibres caused by sizing the
face, and this effect of moisture and evaporation, or drying, is one of the most
important things to watch and understand in veneered work. It is a good thing
to shrink veneers between hot cauls, so tending to lessen the " pull."
To prepare the wood, plane perfectly flat and true, and when dry fill
If the hole is a large one a similar piece of wood
in and level all holes.
should be let in, diamond shaped, but a small hole can be

wood.

filled

in

with plaster of Paris, or glue and sawdust.

The

surface should then be "toothed" with a "toothing plane,"

a small plane

with single, upright blade, which

is

milled

or grooved on the face, so that the edge has sawlike points

(see

sketch).

In sharpening this plane, the "burr"

must

not be rubbed down as in a cutting blade. The toothing should be done both up and down and across the board,
and all over it. The surface should then be sized with a
little

Toothing

Iron.

tooth

when dry it may be necessary to slightly

again as the sizing may have caused some irreguThe veneer too may need toothto rise on the face.

thin glue, and

it

larities

ing to remove any rough surfaces left by the saw. A careful workman will
examine both wood and veneer before laying. To cut thin veneers a sharp
chisel and a straightedge are the best tools to use, but in the thicker or saw-cut
sheets it is better to use a saw, either dovetail or tenon, or a veneer saw shown
in

f.

1,

next page.

When

veneers are dry they buckle and split easily, and need

very careful handling and cutting.

VENEERS AND VENEERING

213

Two methods are used: one with a "hammer" for knife-cut

and the other with " cauls " under pressure for the thicker or " saw-cut "
sheets.
The hammer is usually home-made, of beech or ash, with a blade of
steel
let into the head, and pinned through as shown in
2 below.
The
rfr-in.
edge of the blade should be rounded to prevent cutting. Other tools for
hammer veneering are a hot flat iron and a " swab " or sponge. When everything is quite ready glue, clean, hot, and fairly thin cover the ground quickly
with a large brush, and see that it is free from any little specks of grit then
Laying.

veneers,

f.

with the hand, damp it with hot water,

and pass the flat iron over rapidly without much pressure. Hold the hammer
in the right hand, with the left pressing on the head, and starting in the centre
work it backwards and forwards with a zigzag motion (f. 2) towards the
carefully lay the veneer on, flatting

it

outside edges, going over the whole surface quickly, and repeating the strokes

from the centre until the air and surplus glue are forced out. To test the
laying, tap the veneer with the fingers or hammer handle
a hollow sound will
;

1.

Veneer Saw.

2.

Showing Use of Veneering Hammer.

if these occur, damp again and use the

appear where the glue has clogged, which the
Wipe off, and stand on one side to dry
hot iron and hammer should disperse.
where the air can get round both sides, and hand-screw a clamp across to keep
flat whilst drying.
Blisters are sometimes found when the veneer is dry, and to
get them down properly it will be necessary to prick or slit them to let the air
out, then warm them with the iron and flatten with hammer.
Saw-cut veneers cannot be laid with a hammer except in narrow strips
such as cross-bandings. It is necessary to use wood or metal "cauls" under
pressure either from hand-screws or veneer press. Wooden cauls are best made
of mahogany or pine and out of i-in. stuff.
In hand shops they are usually
kept for this purpose, either flat or curved, and they need only be quite flat and
hot when used. Metal cauls are usually of zinc plate, thin in curved work such
as piano falls, and T F in. thick for flat surfaces.
To lay a panel with handscrewed cauls, get everything ready, caul quite hot, hand-screw set about right,
thick pieces of stuff for clamps, and odd paper and veneer pins handy.
Cover
the ground with glue and let it set slightly, a precaution necessary to prevent the

soon show any blisters or

hot iron sparingly

air

or lumps

:?

spaces and

may

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

2i 4

veneer sliding and swelling too quickly, and doubly secure it by tapping pins
into the edges or where the holes may not be seen afterwards, and do not turn
the pins over unless on waste places cover the veneer with a layer of paper,
and on the top of the paper a piece of green baize, and then lay the hot caul
on round side downwards to ensure the
glue being driven from the centre in no
case should cauls be laid on with hollow
side down.
Lay the clamping pieces
across and hand-screw down, fixing the
centre ones
first
and the ends last.
I. Veneer Clamp.
Clamps are only necessary for wide panels,
as hand-screws can be used all round a small one.
Clamps should be slightly
round on the inside edge to ensure the centre of the panel being pressed first.
Fig. i above shows a regular clamp with iron screws at each end.
In large
shops a veneer press is used where the clamps are part of a stand and the
;

3Ec

2.

pressure

is

much

greater

-ra:

Small Veneer Press.

whilst in

many

cases the press

is

combined with a

hot table, either gas or steam, where the cauls are heated and the veneer laid
in a very expeditious and effective manner.
Two views of a small press are

shown

in

f.

2.

When

paper

is

not used, metal cauls should be rubbed with soap

and in large flat surfaces

it is a good thing to have a layer of thick
flannel or baize between the paper and the
caul, as it helps to press into any little
irregularities which the hard caul could not
to prevent sticking,

touch.

In curved

work

to use a caul, even

veneer,

it

is

always advisable

when laying

and when the curve

is

3.

Sand-box

for

Curved Work.

knife-cut

too difficult to

of the wooden caul, sand-bags are used.

These are easily made with

strong calico, and should allow for at least an inch of sand at all points. They
can be heated on the stove or hot plate, and it must be remembered that they
test the

fit

retain the heat longer than the wood or metal cauls.

Sand-bags, however, can
only be used for hollow or serpentine surfaces. They should be laid in a box

VENEERS AND VENEERING

made
down

for the purpose,

to the

f.

sand before

hot.

The most

ogee

fronts,

215

previous page, and the veneered face gently fitted

pressure is put on, and the sand must not be too

3,

final

do in curved work, such as hollow, round, or

keep the waste outside piece from the sawmill (or reverse
shape), and use it as a caul, or failing this, build up a bit of pine and have one
cut.
In large surfaces like cylinder "falls," the most effective method is by
building up a " saddle" or double caul out of pine, as shown in f. 1 below, with
a thin |-in. board which should easily warp to the curve, as a hot caul.
This
is

practical thing to

to

method takes a

longer in pre-

little

paring the "saddle," but

in

the long run, as

pressure

is

over the

all

box can be

fall,

The

used.

the best

is

it

ensures direct

it

or a sand-

other method

to screw at least four ribs inside the

one

fall,

at

each end, and prepare

similar ribs to

fit

Warp

the top.

thin board for hot caul as near to the

1.

Saddle

for

Curved Work.

curve as possible, and the ribs can

then be hand-screwed

down one over

the other

the more

ribs the

more

likely

a good job.

Circular Pedestals are usually veneered with knife-cut, and a slightly

curved hammer. This is not a difficult process if the veneer is flat, but the
joint must overlap and be left for a time until the pedestal has partially dried,
so as to reduce the shrinkage at the joint, which may be cut with chisel and
straightedge and laid with a warm iron and hammer.
The same method applies
to a column,

and

if

is needed as in laying saw-cut, bind it round

with wide tape or webbing, which, if slightly damped, will
draw taut and act as a caul. In work of this kind the outside of the veneer should be covered with canvas to prevent

further pressure

fracture.

Coves are usually made of thin stuff, and if veneered

the board will warp nearly to the shape required, or it can
be steamed to the curve and fixed to a saddle and then
veneered.

Flatting

is

and

buckle,

to

when veneers are inclined

when using burrs, brown or

often necessary
essential

is

any veneer which is " bumpy " and

troublesome in laying. The best method is to
damp the veneer and press it between hot cauls until dry,
rosewood and satinwood, which are both oily woods and need not be
pollard oak, or in fact

Pattern

except

in

in

Veneer.

likely to be

damped. As a further precaution against "pulling," some men prefer to flatten

and shrink all veneers between hot cauls before laying, and the less water used
in all

cases the better.

End Grain Veneering

sary.

The wood should be

Setting out and

care.

Suppose a

flat

"

is

not a very safe process, but

sized three or four times to close

Fixing

"

patterns in veneer

design such as

f.

is

is

sometimes neces-

up the

pores.

a job requiring

above has to be prepared

skill

and

for veneering.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

216

Set it out carefully on a board, prepare template of one corner of the inside
and outside shapes, and mark them out on the veneer where the grain is most
suitable
cut them out roughly with saw or chisel, then finish the curve, of
inside pieces first, with marquetry saw and file, shoot the joints, lay it on board
and fix it with three veneer pins driven partly home fit up other pieces to it,
taking care that centre joints are in line then fit up outside pieces in a similar
;

way, being careful that the grain is in the right direction. When complete, glue
slips of paper over all the joints, tapping them down with
a brush to escape the pin heads when dry draw out pins,
;

and the panel should be ready to lay. If a line has to be

taken round the diamond shape, it should be laid up to the
curve, slightly glued at joint and held in place by pins
driven outside at intervals, and then gently bent over
towards the inside when set, the pins are removed and
the outside pieces fitted up to the line.
The above process
has to be changed for light-coloured veneers, as satinwood,
in which the pin holes would show badly.
To escape this
the pieces are laid on paper with just a little glue near
;

the edges to fix them, the paper, strong cartridge, being

stretched on the board
I.

Curved Corner
in

edges.

Bandings.

The paper

in this case, as

paper.

Where

slips

by damping

it

and glueing the

over the joints are not necessary

the top side of the veneer

pins are at

all

is

laid

on to the

likely to injure the veneer

paper method should be used, but it is a safe one for all and where veneer
very brittle and the grain short in the design, it is safer to back it with
paper before cutting out shapes, and if a fret saw is used, back it also with

this

is

piece of xV-in. stuff.

For curved shapes the pattern is developed (see
Chapter X.) on the flat and fixed as above, but a thin layer of glue should be
put between the veneer and paper to prevent the
former splitting when laid on.
Cross-Banding can be laid with the hammer
a slight damping will swell the outside fibres, and
prevent the ends cocking up through the same
action by the glue on the inside.
Thin slips of
paper should be laid over all the joints to prevent
the air getting in, and to hold the band up to the
joint when drying.
The cross-band round a panel
end or drawer front can be laid at one time if done
in this way.
Fig. I above shows a curved corner
2. Herring-Bone Veneering.
for a panel, and how to match the mitres.

Herring-Bone patterns are usually applied to Queen Anne Italian walnut

work, on drawer fronts, ends, and frames.
It should be done with good striped
wood, or

it

fails

in

its

herring-bone banding.

purpose.

The

Fig. 2

shows a part of a drawer front with

strips are carefully cut obliquely across the sheet

with straightedge and chisel, or on the edge of a board with a cutting gauge,
shot with an iron plane, and laid with the " hammer," or the pane end of an
ordinary hammer, the inside strip first, all round, and the outside one laid up

VENEERS AND VENEERING

217

or the pattern can be built up

it, care being taken that the grain matches
on paper and laid altogether, centre and bands as well. Joints are made in
Paper should be laid over all joints as
the middle and the grain reversed.
previously explained.
Cocked beads are usual on such drawer fronts.
Cleaning Off and Finishing. It is most important that no veneered work
of any kind should be cleaned off until quite dry, or it will tear up or blister
If there is any paper to remove it can be toothed off with the
in the cleaning.
fine toother, or a little warm water and a sponge, but the less water used the
better the rest of the work must be done with the scraper, and very carefully
In a panel where the grain goes in different
too, or it may easily work through.
directions, the scraping should be done with it, as well as the papering to follow
and where there is other work to do to the job, as in a table, the final clean off
should be left to the last. The veneered portions which are left loose for a time
should be watched in case of casting or warping, which may occur in the best
executed work owing to changes of atmosphere or the natural working of the
wood. To prevent this, keep the work hand-screwed down between clamps, and
to

out of draught, heat, or damp.

Old work requires special treatment, and

any fixed rules for it. But there
are a few instances in which some
general hints may be useful, and as

it

would be absurd to lay down

such these are given. As a rule

veneer on old work is fairly thick
and can be toothed or even planed.

Where

there

sign that

and

it

slit

and

is

blister

has

the glue

may

is

it

perished,

be possible to cut a
and then

Joints in Veneers.

insert fresh glue,

down with a hot caul. But if this is on a top it will leave a bad mark
where the slit was cut, or holes, if the veneer had been pricked. In this case
it would be better to find a new or old piece of stuff, if possible, as near to
the grain and colour as could be, and cut it in diamond shape, as in sketch
press

above.

If the

grain

in burrs or pollard

is

wavy

woods,

in

the joint should be

made

to

fit

which irregular shapes should be

it,

especially

let in,

but in

The same hints apply

cases square pieces or butt joints look very bad.
It sometimes
to a bruise or fracture, either in the veneer or solid wood.
happens that an old top has to be completely stripped off, and this may be

all

If
iron rubbed over the surface a few times.
the veneer has to be preserved it can be raised carefully by inserting a thinThe
bladed knife underneath, a palette knife being well suited for the job.

done by damping and a hot

flat

pieces of veneer should be carefully laid on a board in preparation for the

restoring process, which would be similar to fitting up a panel, but the old glue

removed by repeated work with sponge and toothing

the veneer well flatted before any restoring could be done.
would have

to be

iron,

and

Stringing and Banding. Strings are thin lengths, ranging from "hair
They
lines," which are not much thicker than drawing paper, up to 1 in. square.
to
according
dozen,
per
pence
are prepared and sold in 3 -ft. lengths, at a few

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

2l8
size,

and are stocked in black, white, box, and purple, but any kind can be cut
The bandings are sold in similar lengths up to in. in width. They
vary in design, of which a few are shown in
i alongside.
It has already been explained

to order.

f.

l^g~a^M

IBMB J

how

to

pattern,

lay lines or strings, in

and

applies

this

straight, circular, or elliptic,

mihMM

a veneered

any shape,
but where lines
to

have to be
other

inlaid into a plain or solid panel,

methods

Where

used.

are

special

shapes such as " ovals " or ogee corners and

curved lines are to be inlaid, it is done with a
template, and the groove to take the line is
routed out against the edge of template by
the tang end of a

file,

of which has been

required

line.

or a bradawl, the end

filed

square to take the

In circles or lines which are

parts of such, a small block of h-in. stuff can

be glued on to the panel, with paper underneath for easy removal, and a hole bored in it to take an ordinary dowel. A
strip of i-in. stuff about I in. wide can be used for the arm, and bored about
2 in. from the end to drop over the
dowel in the block. At the other
end the piece of steel for routing
can be driven through at required
distance, and with one hand on the
dowel end, and the right hand guiding the steel, the groove is easily
worked. Fig. 2 on this page shows
the arrangement which is easily
adapted to such work.
For all
straight work, where there is an
"
edge to work from, a " scratch stock
Router for Curved Lines.
is used, f. 3 below.
This is a little
home-made tool which is useful in many ways, as in scratching flutes and
mouldings.
Its make has already been described in Chapter III., and it can
take a cutter from a hairi.

Types of Bandings.

up to \ in.
more elaborate one can

line thickness

be made with rounded

handles at each end, but
this
"

Scratch Stock.

known

one,
"

as

the

answers
the purpose extremely well.
Fig. i, next page, shows one
revolver

stock,

When the routing is done the lines

with thin glue, and pressed into the groove by the end of an
ordinary hammer. The same tool is used for routing in the wider bands. The

with a movable fence and butterfly screw.

are touched

VENEERS AND VENEERING

edge of the cutter

somewhat

219

best kept square like a scraper, and in using the stock,

is

like a gauge,

only with both hands, the worker must be careful to

edge, and hold it firmly to prevent wobbling.

keep it tight up to the

routing
a
cross
For
" double
cutter " should
This is made
be used.
small
a
by
leaving
"knife" on each edge of
the blade, and if used
first it prevents the edge
from being frayed. Lines
and bands should not be
cleaned
dry,

or

off

they

until
will

quite

1.

Scratch Stock with Movable Fence.

sink

below the surface as the glue beneath them sets and contracts.
Square lines are used for edges round table tops, &c, and are simply laid
Special devices are resorted to for holding them
in a rebate on the corner.

2.

Method

of Lacing an

Edge

to a

Table Top.

on the edge of a door frame, they can be bound round with

edge of an oval, or any shaped table, the following method is
practised, f. 2 above.
Drive some screws into a piece of stuff about 2 in. apart
and \ in. out of the wood, and
on the underside of the top
drive other screws about 2 in.
from the edge and also 2 in.
Hand-screw the piece of
apart.
stuff down to the top about 4 in.
from the edge, and with plenty
3. Building up Bandings.
of tape the edge line can be
bound on from screw to screw,
drying.
Lines
can be steamed and bent to
and laced up effectually whilst
piece of hot gas pipe, keeping
them
on
a
almost any curve by gradually bending
This applies chiefly to the thicker and
them well damped in the process.

whilst drying.

tape, but for the

If

22o

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

square edges rather than to the thin lines which will, as a rule, bend quite easily
round a circle. Sometimes, in repairing, a few feet of banding has to be made
A few
Fig. 3, p. 219, shows how to build it up.
up by the cabinetmaker.
strips of cross-grained

ebony and satinwood are

carefully jointed
alternately,
is

and glued up
and if a line

wanted on

each side

the faces can be prepared

when dry and veneered

^11

with
.1.

Box

for Inlaying Lines in a

Tapered Leg.

going

a
in

caul,

the

the

grain

same

direc-

ground.
as
the
tion
dry the bands can be cut off the edge, and are ready to inlay. Or if a
plain cross band is wanted, cut a piece the required thickness off the end of
An endless variety of
a 2-in. board, and lay the veneer on the end grain faces.
bands can be obtained in this way in any woods, thickness, or width. The old

When

MARQUETRY AND INLAYING

Marquetry was developed

in France during the eighteenth century, and

through the reign of Louis XVI.
The word means to " mark," to
" impress," to " cut into," and the process, which was made possible by the
introduction of veneers, is as follows
A tracing of the design is glued on to the
sheet of veneer which is to form the ground, and other veneers to form the design
are glued on the back with paper between them.
They are then cut on what is
known as a " donkey " (see below), which is a stool with a frame fixed at the
end, on which the saw runs horizontally, and to which is also attached an upright clamp, something like a harness maker's, worked by a treadle.
The cutter
sits astride the stool, holds the veneers in the clamp, and moves them about with
his left hand, whilst he works the saw with the right.
The saw frame can be
adjusted so as to cut on the slope and ensure a good fit.
Marquetry cutters
are generally men who do nothing else, thus becoming highly skilful in the
work, and as a rule they make their
own saws, which are extremely fine,

chiefly

out of clock spring

the cutting

is

steel.

When

done, the design

is

on a board, and the pieces

shaded where required. This shading, which is really scorching, is
done by dipping the veneer into
hot sand, and when completed the
whole design is glued down on
to paper, and handed over to
If any
the cabinetmaker to lay.
engraving is required, it is done
when the marquetry is cleaned off.
are
now stained all
Veneers
laid out

colours, so

that

it

is

possible

to

obtain very naturalistic effects in

a flower design.

The Marie An-

toinette toilet bureau in the Jones

Collection

at

Using a Marquetry

Cutter's

"Donkey."

South Kensington,

shown on Plate XXVIII., is decorated with this process. The Dutch were also
famous marquetry cutters, and the fine Stuart cabinet, Plate XX., is a
noted example, together with the clock case, Plate XXL, both probably
made in England. The fans, shells, &c, which were a common feature on
second-rate furniture a few years ago, and are still used, are cut and shaded
in the manner described above.
For further reference to marquetry work see
"
chapter on
Styles."
Buhl Work. This was invented by Andre Boulle, a noted Frenchman who
became famous as a cabinetmaker in the reign of Louis XV. (see chapter on
" Styles "), and " buhl," as it is spelt in England, was named after him.
It is really
the inlaying of metal into tortoiseshell firstly, and when this became scarce, into
wood or composition which passed as tortoiseshell. He used brass and silver
chiefly, which was afterwards engraved.
The cutting was similar to marquetry,
and Plate XXIV., p. 222, shows a wardrobe in the Jones Collection by Boulle.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

222

The work was continued by an

artist

named

work was so

Berain, and the later

arranged to save material that the ground furnished another design, a device
known as " boule " and " counter boule." This inlaying in metal has never found
much favour in England, but metal was used by some of the eighteenth-century
When brass lines or bands have to be inlaid
designers, amongst them Sheraton.
Salisbury glue should be used, or the glue should be mixed with plaster of
Files and emery cloth are used to clean off metal inlay, finishing with a
Paris.
little oil and pumice powder.
Inlaying differs from marquetry from
the fact of its being applied to solid work

which pieces are

into

inlaid.

It

was largely

used on furniture in the Jacobean period, and

the illustration on this page shows a panel of
holly in oak from the Inlaid Room of Sizergh
Castle,
in

Westmorland, date about 1600, now

the Victoria and

Museum.

Albert

In

inlaying proper the pieces are cut out, laid

on,

and marked round, and then holes cut

The edges

to receive them.
for inlaying

make

sure of a

of the pieces

be slightly bevelled to

should

good

of the hole pricked

joint,

to

and the bottom

make keys

for the

Chess squares are sometimes inlaid

into a solid piece, or "overlaid," a term used
when the layer is thicker than veneer, with
the squares which have been glued up in
nine strips, and cross cut again, and then
laid on the ground in the usual way, with
glue.

a caul, the odd strip allowing for the alter-

nate square at each cut.

Mother -of- Pearl is used largely in

veneering and inlaying on such things as
clock cases, mirror frames, caskets, and small

2 in.

can be bought prepared for use

15s. per lb. in pieces from 1 to
broad in irregular shapes and about a

thin

-,

cabinets.

and Bog Oak Panelling

from Sizergh Castle in the Room
at the Victoria and Albert Museum.

Inlaid Holly

from

It

10s. to

1
,.

in.

thick.

The

qualities are " snail,"

wavy and varying in colour, and "blue,"

most expensive, and obtained in smaller
pieces.
Pearl can be cut with a very fine saw, or filed to any shape, but where
the shape is thin or delicate, it should be backed up on stiff veneer with paper
which

or

"

is

the ordinary shell

green," or

"

"

Japanese,"

pink," which are the

between, before the cutting is done.

When inlaying, the underside of the pearl
should be roughened with a file, and the ground pricked to give a better "hold
for the glue.
Owing to its brittle nature it will not bear much pressure, and
the weight of a

flat

as

its

underside

is

When a caul and

danger of breaking the pearl without knowing it,

iron or iron plane should be sufficient.

hand-screw are used there

is

often hollow,

little

plaster of Paris should be

mixed with

Plate XXIV.

Buhl Wardrobe from the Jones Collection,

Victoria and Albert Museum.

Dutch Marquetry
Clock.

[To face page 222.

>
X
X
w
<

33

MARQUETRY AND INLAYING

The

the glue, which should be used quite hot.

that

if

inlaid

usually polished, so

it

necessary

use

and

with pumice powder and rottenstone.

penetrating the wood,

removed

is

should need but little cleaning off. Where this is

scraper, or a fine file, then rub down with flour paper,

carefully

finish

face side

223

first

give

at the final clear

off.

the surface of pearl, which

it

To prevent

the pearl powder

a rubber of light polish, which can be easily

It is often

necessary to cut a line design into

the engraver's tool, and this

resists

is

done by

covering the surface with a thin coat of beeswax brushed on warm.

The design
is then scratched through the wax down to the pearl, and nitric acid poured
In the course of an hour the acid will have burnt

into the scratchings.

the pearl, and after a good washing in water the

wax can be

cleaned

away

off,

and

the mastic run in the lines to complete the design.

Ivory

another rare material used for inlaying.

is

large pieces, 12 to 14

or in lines

and

in.

long,

and 4

solid squares.

It

to 5

in.

can be cut

The underside should be

inlaid with a caul.

It is

obtained in fairly

wide, and a good veneer thickness

in a similar

way

to pearl,

and

toothed, and the ground pricked

pearl.
For cleaning off, scrape or file and finish with fine paper and
pumice powder, the polishing being done with a buff rubber and whiting.

as in

made

by soaking it in pure phosphoric acid until it has

must then be washed in cold water, and dried with
a clean, soft rag, and if it again becomes too hard to bend, a soaking in hot
water will produce flexibility again. The cheap substitutes for ivory are ivorine,
bone, and celluloid.
It can be cut and
Tortoiseshell is a rarer material than pearl or ivory.
inlaid in a similar way to pearl, and cleaned off by scraping and papering, and
Ivory can be

flexible

ceased to be opaque.

is

It

polished with dry whiting or rottenstone.

composition to imitate tortoise-

with red-coloured background, was introduced into the later buhl work,

shell,

was far from being successful.

Parquetry is the geometric veneered work found on Louis XV. and XVI.
work (see table on p. 117), composed largely of diapers of the same wood. It
is well adapted for small things, such as clock cases or caskets, and is built up
on paper as explained in the satinwood veneering, and laid with a caul.
but

it

Intarsia

is

name

given to the early inlaying originating in Italy in the

when

realistic perspective effects were obtained with veneers

on piece by piece. It may be called " pictorial " inlaying, and
much of it has been recently done in the " New Art " Continental Work, illustrated in the examples in Bethnal Green Museum, although it has not affected
the cabinet trade generally.
Its success depends upon the selection of the grain
and colours of the wood, and in recent years the Gold Medal in the National
Competition has been granted for work of this character. Some remarkable
and beautiful effects are obtained when combined with good colour and

fourteenth century,

which were

laid

design.

Overlay Work. This is a type of veneering done with stuff which was thick
enough to mould, or the term would be applied to any material which was laid over
another.
The famous examples are those of the Italian and Dutch periods when
ebony and ivory were lavishly used. " Facing up " is a workshop term applied
to

it

when

thin solid stuff

is

used as against the thinner veneer.

The

cabinet

224

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

on Plate

XXV.

is a fine example of seventeenth-century Dutch overlay work in

reproduced by permission of the Earl of Uysart, and is in that
nobleman's fine collection at Ham House. The " waved " surface and mouldings
are a special feature of Dutch work in the seventeenth century, found on frames,
chests, and cabinets, but ivory is the exception owing to its cost and rarity.
The " waves " vary in design and give a pleasing effect of light and shade.
They were made by a hand machine, which causes the waves to be slightly
irregular in shape.
A full description of the machine may be found in a French
book, by A. J. Roubo, dated 1769, to be seen in the library at South Kensington.
These mouldings are still made in various sizes and " waves," but stained sycamore is used in place of ebony. They cost about 3d. per foot and upwards
from J in. to 1 in., and, as a rule, can be obtained at any of the good veneer
merchants, who also supply pearl, tortoiseshell, strings, bands, and other materials
for inlay, overlay, marquetry, and veneering.
Oyster Shell Veneering
This name is given to the type of veneering
found on old Dutch cabinets. The veneers have been cut transversely from
branches of lignum vitae, or laburnum wood, so that the markings of the rings
give an oyster shell appearance, hence the name.
The joints between the pieces
are usually square, and the pattern is built up by the methods already described,
viz., pinning to the ground and glueing paper over the joints, or glueing each piece
to paper.
Cleaning off requires great care, and a circular motion to the rubber.
The inside of the doors on the cabinet (Plate XXIII.) are good examples of
oyster shell work.
For other illustrations of pattern building in veneer, see
pages 104, 130, 145, 155, 160, 175, 176, 181, 189, 190, 192, 205, 206.

ivory.

It is

CHAPTER
FOREMEN'S

X.

WORK PRACTICAL

SETTING OUT AND

APPLIED GEOMETRY.

Purpose
Definition of Working Drawings
Description of Rods
Working Drawings and Rods Method of Preparing same Elevation, Section,
&c.
Specimen Rods Preparing Curve Templates, and Application of Moulding
Turning and Fretwork Details Cutting Lists Necessity for
Sections for Machine
Method of Preparation and Checking Duplicate Lists Allowances for Cutting
Taking Measurements and Templates Development of Room Measuring Angles,
&c.
Taking Details of Existing Work Strapwork, Posts, &c. Squeezing Wax for
Carvings, Recipe for
Method of Using Casting in Plaster Flat Relief Work
Supervision in Workshop
Requisitions
Time-sheets, &c.
Specimen Requisi-

Foremen's Duties,
of

tionEquipment of Drawing Office Draughtsmen's Table Sizes of sameAccommodation Storage of Rods Marking Rods Roll Paper Wall Roller
same Instruments Estimating, Methods of Specifications Special Clauses
Specimen Estimate
Detail
Applied Geometry Reduction and Enlargement
of Mouldings Proportionate Reduction Drawing Entasis of Column Spacing of
Flutes and
Reduction and Enlargement of Mouldings Alternate Method
Intersection of Bracket Mouldings Intersection of Raking and Curved Mouldings
Necessity Curved Mitre Joining a Straight Mitre Line Intersection of
Raking Mouldings on Pediments and Overdoors Gothic Arches Method of
Drawing same Names and Terms applied
ditto Combinations
Geometry
of Gothic Detail Foliation, &c. Trefoiling Cusping Quatrefoiling, &c.
Chippendale Cluster Columns Development of Curved Surfaces Method of
Measuring Curved Lines Development of
Marquetry
or Vase-Shape
Necessity
Development Method of Developing Splayed Veneers Octagonal
Shape Development of Marquetried Knife Case Veneering same
Method of Developing Allowance
Curvature and Bending True Shape of
Flutes Preparing Zinc Templates Veneering with Sand-bags
Hopper Development Application
a Wine Cooler Obtaining Bevels Making the Carcase
Dovetailing and Keying same Working the Mouldings and Rebates Other
Methods Elliptical Doors Method of Projection and Development Preparing
the Stuff Obtaining Segments and Bevels Necessary Templates Marking out the
Material Fitting together Glueing up
Circular Dome Drawing the Ribs
Rebate Line
Crown Construction of Bed Frame Sections of the Mouldings
Mitre Intersection Securing the Panels.

for

in

Fillets

for

in

to

Pillar

for

Pillar

for

to

in

15

for

226

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Setting out, and Foremen's Work.

The duties of foremen differ according to the size of a firm and the class of
work done, but foremen's work in its broadest sense is very comprehensive, and
embraces the practice of the various branches of setting out, estimating, supervision, and
organisation.
In large firms where there are several shops,
each controlled by a foreman, the duties are more limited in character, and
consist chiefly of issuing the job orders, drawings, and cutting lists, and in
generally supervising the production of the work.
estimating, &c,

the works.

is

Under

All setting out,

then conducted by draughtsmen

in

the

these circumstances, individual foremen's

full

drawing

work

sizing,

office

of

will naturally

size, the foreman will estimate,

keep time-sheets, prepare orders for fittings and generally supervise
the work in its progress, from the perspective sketch or design to the actual
completion of the job.
Working Drawings are really full-size representations on paper of the
object required to be made, and consist usually of the elevation, plan, and section
arranged in such positions as to occupy the smallest space consistent with
In nearly every instance these working
the workman's ability to read them.
drawings are made full size scale drawings tend to confuse the workman in
transferring to full measurements
and again, a slight error may creep into
the scale drawing which would be considerably magnified when made up full
size.
A rod is a thin board upon which is set out the plans and sections
of certain repetition work, panelling for example, which does not demand
fully drawn elevations.
These rods are usually made of |-in. pine planed
smooth on both sides with the edges shot perfectly straight.
Purpose of Working Drawings and Rods. They convey to the workman all the necessary information concerning the work in hand, and they should
indicate clearly all the measurements, true curves for shaping, details of turning,
fretting, carving, inlaying, &c, and also the construction.
Many points have
to be considered in setting out the drawings and rods.
Economical and effective
construction, properly proportioned moulding sections a sympathetic interpretation of the designer's suggestions as expressed in the scale drawing; facility in
separating if necessary for transport, and suitability of the work to a specified
purpose.
A half front elevation is usually sufficient on the working drawing,
and a " section " showing the arrangement of the various pieces, portions for
dovetailing, &c, is superimposed on the first view.
This section is really a view
of the interior parts where the job is divided by a vertical cutting plane, an
outline of blue pencil serving to distinguish this view from the elevation.
Where
the work is shaped in plan, such as a serpentine front sideboard, a " sectional
plan " also is required, which is again superimposed on the drawing and outlined
with red pencil. A comprehensive study of the illustrations in the chapter on
" Carcase and Table Work " will indicate to the reader suitable positions Redetermining the sections and elevations.

vary, but in shops of a comparatively small

set out,

WORK AND PRACTICAL SETTING OUT

FOREMEN'S

Preparation of Rods. Specimen rods are shown

library bookcase and
panelling respectively, f. 1 and 2
LIBRARYThe bookcase is set
alongside.

227

illustrating the setting

out of a

out as follows

Mark thin

lines

of

height

the total

indicating

PfeNELLlNG

MS 5892,

RODS-

job and the heights from floor

the

of

line

gauge

table

plinth,

&c.

frieze, cornice,

use a

top,

thumb

one edge to pencil

between these

off

perpendiculars
divisions

for the

back,

frieze,

of doors,

line

&c, draw

the

in

moulding sections, detail of

drawer dovetails, section of door
rails, width of back framing, &c.
The whole section of the job
cannot be shown on an 11 -in.
board, so wave lines are drawn
right through the section and

FULL-'WDTH
SF-T5P-B4KP

I'

3f

is marked
Complete the

the true over-all width

on

the

rod.

setting out

H.B.
are

by lining

shown

in

in

with an

Sectional

pencil.

separate

plans
rod,

showing
position of ends, divisions, and
doors, and also showing con-

f.

2,

as described above,

detail
such as the
dust-proof beads and details of

structive

shutting

stiles,

rebated ends for

back, &c, that do not occur in

the section.

men

Fig. 3 is a specirod of panelling, showing

sectional view of plan

and side

elevation.

Preparing Curved Templates.

Upon

completion of

the drawings or rods, the tem-

necessary for marking

shapes on the wood are next

plates

prepared.
These apply to
shaped brackets, curved rails,
mouldings, and segmental templates requisite for building

curved ends or drawer fronts.

nci.

FIG. 2.

FIG. 3.

Specimen Rods of Bookcase and Panelling.

up
Quarter-inch whitewood

is

used,

and the shapes

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

228

by placing the

are transferred to this

up with pencil

are then joined

lines

wood under

thin

pricking points at intervals along the curve

the drawing and in

these points on the template stuff

and the template cut to shape.

outlines are

OAK- B^eKCAS^-

marked upon tracing

true

paper,

with the required run in length of each

MQSS5>-

marked also, see

alongside.
Turning or Fretwork Details are

section

The

are then prepared for use in the machine shop.

Moulding Sections

e>rtR<MLD
40' RUN--

f.

I.

also traced off ready for the machinist's

B&SDS-llfoFT.

Such systematic procedure is always

and is conducive to economical
production and smooth progress through

use.

advisable,

STILES-^IND

12

FRIEZE-MOLD

the various shops.

ReUS.TO-TH.5.

Jg-R^N

Cutting Lists are

lists

of material

giving particulars of each piece required

\ZZJ

They are prepared

job.
specimen opposite, and bound in
book form with perforated edges to tear
away easily. Thin paper is interleaved and
carbon paper is inserted when making the
entries, which makes a duplicate list for
for

2.-TJDTHI5--

"PUNTH-ri LP
2 To This-

R4 tNE L MOLD

?*

making the

as in the

unins-up-

office

2b FEET-RUN-

reference.

About

fifty

items are

entered upon one sheet, and each piece

i.

is

View showing Arrangement of Sections

cutting

usually h

are

in.

extra

numbered on the working drawing

in

Workshop Practice."
Taking Measurements and Templates.
"

chapter on

icA5i)<r---ZG-

to

correspond with the numbers contained

Allowances for
in
the first column.
See also
length, and A- in. for width.

on Tracing Paper.

>ic3l->

When

work of a

special

<--5'6'f>
<3'fo"

gjs

89

Bo

\
-fr

11S

,-M-H

<^.'6"-

s'iis

?'--

zs

ior-

piAN MEASUREMENTSAH,E'ON*fLOOe.UNE.

9'

I
2.

character

is

INCOMpLETE

^AJ

20'Si"

of

Room

with Measurements and Angles.

to be executed, involving specific measurements, such as fireplaces,

&c, preparatory sizes must be obtained

development of the room is prepared (see
All angles and corners should
above), with actual measurements figured in.

window

before the work

2

l-1EASUB.EMe.NTS
AR.E-

View showing Development

fitted corners,

f.

.'

PLEASE* NOTE -THAT-

J9

#V

is

seats, panelling,

set out.

scale

FOREMEN'S

WORK AND PRACTICAL SETTING OUT

Cutting

Satinwood

Customer
No.

List.
Sheet A.

No. 837.

Job

229

Wardrobe.

H. J.

Smith, Esq.

Order No. ^326.

Date Jan.

3,

1909.

2 3o

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

FOREMEN'S

WORK AND PRACTICAL SETTING OUT

231

determine the best thickness for properly running into the finer parts of the
mould. When the plaster is set quite hard, the wax is drawn away, and the
plaster representation of the decoration will remain.

Details of Flat Relief

Work or

can be obtained by placing thin paper

frets

over them, and in rubbing the paper with heelball.

If carefully

done the pattern

3'tf-

-idc*.

View of a Draughtsman's Table

1.

for Full Size

Drawings.

show in black and white masses these are termed " rubbings." This
method is a very handy one, and the rubbings are not only accurate but

will

permanent.

Equipment

of

Drawing

Office.

Fig.

table suitable for large working drawings

made

firm top

1.

above

illustrates a

draughtsman's

the height should be about 3 ft.

of i]-in. yellow pine with ebony slips on each edge, securely
;

buttoned to the framing,

most

is

The

suitable.

front

fitted

is

with a cupboard and

drawers for storage of
books,

instruments,

&c, and trays

for

perial

size

design

sheets.

Iron brackets

im-

screwed to the
back for supporting
rod boards, and a
space at the end is
are

also utilised for rolled

drawings.

Slips

wood about

by ^

of
in.

should be glued at
each end of rolled
drawings to prevent
tearing during

the

2.

frequent

Roller Attachment for Large Size

rolling they are

subjected to

Drawing Paper.
in

the

workshop.

Rods are labelled with the description and order number on the board or on
wooden tag attached to one end, and are stored in wooden racks after use,
required
in rolls

for

future

about 4

ft.

reference.

Paper

for

a
if

working drawings can be obtained

wide, and about 1,000 yds. long.

wooden

roller

is

inserted

and supported by strong brackets (see diagram f. 2 above) one

end of the paper is placed under a lath, which has a sliding knife attached.
in the centre,

232

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

When

paper

wanted, the required length is drawn under the lath, and

roll by drawing the knife along it.
Instruments. The following are the usual instruments required
A 4 ft.
fourfold rule, one set of cardboard scale rules, a case of drawing instruments,
large wooden or celluloid set squares, a wooden bevel with adjustable top, two
large wooden tee squares, one with movable head and set screw, two trammels,
a beam compass with adjustable heads, tracing paper, and a straightedge.
is

separated from the

Estimating.
Estimating

for

cabinetwork demands a very careful attention to

details.

Scale drawings or perspectives and specifications are supplied to the foreman

or estimating clerk, from which he prepares the prime or factory cost.
factors affect the practice of estimating,

and

it

is

Many

only by a broad knowledge of

procedure, and a careful study of fluctuating market prices in certain timbers,

fittings,

discounts and rebates, that estimates can be systematically prepared.

Local rates of labour, extra wages and expenses

for fixing, must also be calculated.

working various woods also require attention. Time limits
and contract clauses, with penalties for incompletion of work within a definite
time, and the consequent possibility of paying extra wages for overtime,
lighting charges, &c, must also be allowed for.
Repetition Work is more economic than the first model, as it does not
require extra templates, cutters, and working drawings, and is duly considered

The

differences of

when estimating

for quantities.

Only the

basis of estimating

involving methods in daily use in firms where

it

is

carried

is

dealt with here,

beyond the com-

some of the smaller shops.

accompany architects' drawings, and must be carefully
followed in estimating they contain all information not conveyed by the drawing, such as quality of wood, machine or hand wrought, with descriptions of
parative guesswork that prevails in
Specifications always
;

special fittings, finish, &c.

ficial

The

first

step in estimating

area of timber in each thickness used, which

is

is

to ascertain the super-

entered upon a printed form

arranged as indicated on next page. The wardrobe illustrated on p. 155 is taken

When the timber items are complete, labour is dealt with
as a specimen job.
and entered as shown. Work involving the co-operation of other departments
Fittings should be specified in
is also entered under their respective titles.
detail,
with the estimated cost attached to each, providing the requisite
information as to price, &c, when ordered by the foreman or stockkeeper.
Space is also allowed for extras, in which is entered additional expenditure not

coming under previous heads. Glue, &c, is a constantly recurring item, and
Workshop expenses
comparatively large when veneered work is dealt with.
include the salaries of manager and foreman, rent, taxes, light, and general
upkeep. These are based upon an average for the previous twelve months, and
reduced to a certain percentage of labour cost. This method of estimating
in detail upon prepared forms has the additional advantage of constituting
a valuable record of executed work, and is extremely useful for purposes of
reference.

FOREMEN'S

Job

Satinwood

Customer

WORK AND PRACTICAL SETTING OUT

Factory Estimate.
Wardrobe.

H.J. Smith, Esq.

Wood.

Order No.

233

^326.

Clerk H.J.

E.

234

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Reduction and Enlargement of Mouldings.

I.
shows a method of proportionately reducing a cornice
The diagram
moulding. Draw the section in the rectangle abed, produce the lines bd and
c d, and with d us centre and d c radius, describe semicircle rejoin b to ^and c to/!
Two right-angled triangles are now formed. Supposing the height is required
f.

and from g draw a horizontal until

drop a perpendicular into cd. Draw
horizontal divisions from section to b d, and from these intersections draw
Dotted
dotted lines to apex e, which divides the line g'Ji in the same ratio.
horizontals are now drawn from i, 2, 3, &c, representing the divisions for height
To obtain the projections, with point d as centre, radius d h',
of moulding.
describe a quadrant hi.
Then draw ij\ divide this line as shown and transfer
to kg.
Drop perpendiculars until they intersect the corresponding horizontals,
and draw new the section of the moulding.
Fig. II. An approximate method of drawing a column is illustrated in this
figure.
First draw the half plan, showing flutes and fillets, determine the height
of column and draw the division lines 1, 2, 3, &c, at equal distances apart.
and 5 in plan into four parts, and number as
Divide the space between
to reduce to
it

gh, erect

cuts the triangle in

this perpendicular,

From

this point

indicated.

The bottom

part of the

column has

parallel sides, the divided parts

above diminishing one space in each division. Project the numbered points
on to their corresponding division lines, which, joined together, shows the

The method

of projecting the true elevation of flutes

and fillets will be understood from the drawing. The points on each semicircle
are projected to the divisions, and the flute lines drawn through these points.
Fig. III. is used for both reduction and enlargement of a given moulding,
required curve or outline.

moulding required to be reduced one-third. Draw section

A in rectangle ocab, from
and a describe arcs intersecting in d, and draw
Divide do into three equal parts, and
triangle with oa as base, and d as apex.
Draw lines
a.
from p draw a perpendicular from the horizontal divisions on
radiating to apex until they intersect with pp\ and from these points draw
Construct the triangle e c, and divide one side into three
horizontal projectors.
Draw
equal parts, then draw the horizontal q u, and divide proportionately to oc.
spaces,
v p on section B, and transfer the length q t top r. Continue with the other
from which drop perpendiculars until they intersect with horizontal projectors,
and draw the outline of the section. If the moulding is required to be enlarged,
as centre cut ab produced in e.
fix the compasses to proposed height, and with
Perpendiculars raised from the intersection of this line with the horizontal
division 1, 2, 3, &c, will represent the proportionately increased spaces for height

A representing

line.

This

is

a cornice

transferred to another part of the paper.

describe the quadrant

oe cuts the quadrant.

The
new

aw, with

centre

Transfer this

To

obtain the projections

Measure the distance from a to where

distance from w to y, and draw line oy.
0.

intersection of this line with the vertical divisions accurately represents the
projections.

PRACTICAL SETTING OUT AND APPLIED GEOMETRY

235

236

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Mouldings,
c and

Intersection of Bracket

represent the plan of a clock bracket, b

of the front piece of moulding

is

is

iv.

f.

previous page.

the mitre

lines.

Let

The

abed

projection

greater than the sides, and therefore a section

required that will intersect accurately with the side pieces

the side moulding, and A the section.

fg

is

the height of

profile, draw
&c, and also horizontals from profile. Transfer the line ef
and divisions to /id, and the true section of front piece can be drawn by joining
the intersecting points between the perpendiculars and horizontals as shown.
When mitreing together the mitres are marked with a bevel set to the angles

horizontals

i, 2,

of the plan,

when both

Erect perpendiculars from

3,

pieces will truly intersect.

Intersection of Raking and Curved Mouldings.

Enlargement of Cornice Moulding.

The

illustration in

f.

1.

is

a further

application of the properties of a triangle in the proportionate division of lines,

and applies equally well to either enlargement or reduction of a given moulding.

The rectangle A B C D encloses the profile of a cornice moulding, the height of
which is to be reduced to the length of line XX. Draw the profile as shown in
rectangle and produce the horizontal DC to any length DCD.
From the fillets
or squares of the mouldings and the centre of the large ogee drop perpendiculars
to CD, place compass point in c and describe quadrants from each perpendicular
until they cut the line A E.
The line A E is now considered as the base of a
triangle, the apex situated at any convenient point on the line D D.
From A and
E draw the sides of the triangle to complete the figure. Draw a horizontal from
X X until it cuts the triangle in F, and drop the perpendicular F G. To obtain the
proportionate division of this line, draw horizontals from profile until they cut
AE numbered 1, 2, 3, &c, and from their points of intersection draw lines
radiating to apex, cutting F G in i', 2', 3', &c, then draw horizontals which will
represent the new heights of the moulding.
To find the projections, drop
perpendiculars from profile into C D, and with point C as centre describe
quadrants cutting C E in a, b, c, &c, join these points to apex, and with G as
centre, describe quadrants cutting D C.
Erect perpendiculars from these points,
and trace the profile through the intersection. To enlarge the moulding produce
C D and also the triangle sides. Determine the height as with x X, and the new
heights and projections may then be obtained in a manner similar to the former
example.
Intersection of Curved Mouldings, f. 11. Where curved mouldings are
mitred to straight lengths and both pieces are identical in section, curved mitres
Draw
are required to ensure an accurate intersection of the various members.
outline of curved and straight mouldings, in this case a corner of a piece of framing,
and also the section of moulding A. From the points numbered 1, 2, 3, 4, &c,
erect perpendiculars.
From point B draw the radius line and transfer the
divided line D E to d'e'. With compass point in B, describe arcs cutting the perpendiculars, and through the intersection trace a curve then make concave and
convex templates in zinc or veneer to mark the mitre lines upon the moulding.

PRACTICAL SETTING OUT AND APPLIED GEOMETRY

Methods of Diminishing Mouldings Finding Curved Mitres and

Intersection of Raked Mouldings.

237

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

238

Intersecting in a Straight Mitre Line. Fig. in. previous page shows

method, which is effected by altering the section of the curved piece. Make
FGHI the outline of mouldings, and J K the mitre line. Draw section B on
straight length, and from F G draw horizontal projectors until they cut the mitre
line; from the points of intersection in this line draw arcs until they cut f'g',
this

and

upon I, 2, 3, &c. Transfer the height line FO

and draw horizontal projection parallel to G' F' until they cut the

erect short perpendiculars

to section C,

Through these

perpendiculars.

members

points a

new

section or profile

is

traced, the

width only to the original section on the straight length.

Intersection of Raking Mouldings, such as occur in overdoors and
pediments, are illustrated in f. IV. Draw the line B c, and decide the section of
front piece first, then draw lines parallel to B C, and from the intersections with
profile 1, 2, 3, &c, draw projectors at right angles to BC, and with A as centre
swing arcs on to A A and drop perpendiculars. The section of the end piece
The method of obtaining
is obtained by joining up the points of intersection.
the profile at C will be understood without further explanation.
differing in

Gothic Arches.
Geometrical constructions of Gothic arches are shown opposite, and are
as follows
Fig. 1. Semicircular.
Fig. II. Stilted Semicircular
the
springing line of semicircle is raised or "stilted " above the supporting columns.
Fig. III. Lancet
two sided, terminating in a sharp point, used in two, three,
and five fold combinations. Fig. IV. Equilateral. Fig. V. Segmental. Fig. VI.
Pointed Obtuse or Drop. Fig. VII. Pointed Segmental
the centres being
below the springing line as in segmental. Fig. VIII. Three Centred. Fig. IX.
Four Centred the centres in this case are the corners of a square, but pro-

named

Fig. x. Ogee.

portions vary.

Three Centre.

Fig. XI.

constructed upon equilateral triangles.

squares.

Fig. XIV. Equilateral Trefoliated

side of an arch

is

called the

"

extrados

"

Fig. XII. Pointed Trefoil

Fig. XIII. Trefoiled

;

an arch with

and the inside

The Geometry of Gothic

"

constructed with

trefoils.

intrados

"

or

The upper
soffit.

Detail.

woodwork, traced through the many periods of

such a large one that only a few general characteristics,
bases of construction can be dealt with here.
Some of
Chippendale's designs contained features borrowed from Gothic architecture,
such as cluster columns, &c. A few of the terms used in connection with
Gothic work, and illustrated in the diagrams, are as follows: "Foliation,"

The

subject

Mediaeval Art,
examples, and

of Gothic

is

which was introduced as the Gothic style developed, and consisted of foliating

PRACTICAL SETTING OUT AND APPLIED GEOMETRY

Types of Arches.

239

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

2 4o

and this is obtained by

drawing the equilateral triangle a be, and in bisecting each side and drawing
lines through these points to the opposite apex; from a, with radius ac, describe a circle, also from points b and c then from centre d describe an enclosing circle, and the remaining lines of the figure are drawn from these four
the spaces in tracery

f.

I.

shows a

circle " trefoiled,"

Fig.

centres.

II. is

Diagrams

from
"

a,

b,

and

Quatrefoil."

e,f, g,
foil is

on

p.

c,

The

also a " Trefoil " of different proportion.

illustrating

"Trefoiled" Circles.

are described

" Quatrefoil " with Cusping.

which are the bisecting points of each

Draw

foils

side.

Fig.

III. is

the

a square with diagonals produced, bisect each side, and draw

then from these points describe the foils. The leaf shape between each
called a " cusp," a variation of which is " chamfer cusping," see B on f. vi.

241.

Fig.

III.

also

semicircle being obvious.

shows

" trefoliating " in

Fig. IV.

is

each

foil,

the construction with a

the method of drawing the

Diagram showing Constructive Lines

Diagram of a

" foliated " circle

Cinquefoil.

for " Trefoliated " Circle.

in

f.

VI.

circle, and divide the circumference into six equal

&c, and draw the tangent ag until it cuts ^/produced

Describe the large

parts, join the points

b, e,

bisect the angle formed, obtaining the point h

then transfer the distance

ah

and ej\ with radius ^//describe a circle using h as centre, and proceed
i and j.
The required lines are thickened in, and each
space "trefoliated." Fig. V. is the "Cinquefoil." Describe the pentagon in a
circle, bisect each side, and draw each foil with these points as centres.
to ci

similarly with centres

PRACTICAL SETTING OUT AND APPLIED GEOMETRY

cM5TRycnorN- DMGRflMS- OF- GOTHIC-

TRACERY' /=1MP-CUJSTER-

ED-COLUMMS-

Construction of Gothic Tracery.

16

241

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

242

The Development of Curved Surfaces.

The

figure

shown on

this

page

projection and development.

is

an example which

illustrates

half plan of a vase or knife case

geometrical

is

drawn

(see

These shapes are

see av bv c v d v and also the elevation a d b c.
frequently made of solid stuff, and decorated with carving, especially in work
diagram)

of the
is

first,

Adam

period, but veneering

is

also

When

much employed.

veneering

necessary, the decoration must be so arranged as to permit the veneer being

laid in

narrow

strips, as

sheet of veneer.

it

is

obviously impossible to cover

Inlaid flutes of

boxwood

with

it

single

shown in this example, with

a groundwork of mahogany.
To
draw the elevation accurately, divide

are

the outline of elevation with horizontal

&c.

lines

Where

at

intervals

as

1,2,3,

the lines intersect with

cd, drop

perpendiculars

and with

into

ax

dv

as centre describe arcs.

Divide the arc a x

for flutes

and

spaces in abed, &c, and draw lines

radiating to

from a b

e.

Then

on reference

into reference

line

project points
line 8 in plan
in

elevation,

and proceed next by projecting the

points of intersection on No. 7 line
in plan into No. 7 in elevation, and
so on with all the reference lines.
Trace curves through these points
for the true elevation, and then the
curved heads of flutes are drawn
freehand.
In considering the shape
of the flutes, it must be borne in
Diagrams illustrating Development for
mind that although they diminish
Veneers on Vase Shape.
towards the bottom the sides are not
perfectly straight when laid out on a
The veneers
flat surface, owing to the curvature of the groundwork in plan.
swell
a
slight
in each side
and
position,
must be bent round a curve when laid in
This
pieces.
between
the
joint
is necessary to obtain an accurate and well-fitted
measurements,
to
full
size
working
allowance for bending is more apparent when
than from the small illustration given.
To Obtain the True Shape of a Flute and space to which zinc templates
are made, find the true length in the stretch out line of A B, and place it at the
transfer the divisions also, and draw
side of the diagram, see A B' and a" b"
reference lines corresponding with
with
short horizontal lines
number these as
the plan and elevation.
Then measure the true size of a flute on the plan reference line No. 8, and transfer to the corresponding reference line on a' b', then
;

PRACTICAL SETTING OUT AND APPLIED GEOMETRY

the true size of a flute on reference line No.

7,

which

is

243

also transferred to reference

No. 7 on a' b'. Continue in this way until all the true measurements are
obtained and transferred, when the outline can be drawn through the resultant
points, and then complete the flute by describing a semicircle at top.
The shaped
line

pieces between the flutes are also measured and

drawn in this way, both templates

being prepared of tin zinc, and tested carefully in the groundwork before cutting
Three or four pieces may be secured in the groundwork with veneer
the shapes.
pins and strips of paper glued over the joints.
When quite dry the pins are withdrawn, and the groundwork glued previous to
veneering. Sand-bags are the most effective if
firmly hand-screwed down upon the veneer.
The constructions, developments, and
projections explained below involve much
measurement of curves, and a simple system
of measuring must be thoroughly understood
before proceeding with the more complicated
System of Measuring Curved Lines.
1.
diagrams. Three lines are shown in f. 1,
a b, and c above, representing a compass line, ogee, and elliptical curve respecTo measure the true length of a draw a straight line on tracing paper,
tively.
mark a point d ox\ this line, place this point over D and then place the sharp point
Rotate slightly until the straight line coincides with
of a pricker through them.
the curve at e, and place the pricker in this point and again rotate slightly the
y

length of the line

or points

is

transferred in this

upon the curve

The branch

as

gh

way

are also

to the straight line,

marked

and any divisions

in their relative positions.

of practical geometry described below can be applied to finding

true shapes of almost any curved work before
groundworks are prepared. It frequently happens
that the true shapes or developments are required
before any practical work is proceeded with, especially

when marquetried decoration has

to be pre-

vase
a square
form with curved outline, each face being panelled
with a contrasting veneer. Such shapes must be
developed and drawn upon a flat surface, as the
actual shape of curves are foreshortened when
drawn in elevation. Draw the outline and shaped
panel abcdef, f. 2, with centre line g/i, from c
drop a perpendicular until it cuts the produced
Divide the elevation with horizontals arranged as in diagram, and
line kl.
number the intersections with the perpendicular ck' as 1,2, 3, &c. Draw the
centre line at the side of diagrams and the horizontals cm upon this line, with
This is best accomplished by drawthe divisions as numbered in 1', 2', 3', &c.
pared.

Fig. 2 alongside

is

pillar in

ing a straight line on tracing paper, and pricking the true length upon it as
Now transfer the
described above, drawing the horizontals from 1, 2, 3, &c.
reference line of elevation on to the development with points of intersection
it, and continue with reference line No. 2, marking the position
Proceed with the succeeding lines until all the points are obtained,

marked 00 upon
of points//.

2 44

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

and draw the developed outline through them. The veneers are cut to these
shapes, and when glued to stiff paper or lined are bent over each face, and should
accurately

The

the outline.

fit

curves will likewise

fit

panel

into the posi-

tion indicated in elevation.

The diagram

shows

f.

the

general method usually adopted for

finding the true shape of veneer re-

quired for covering a circular conical

The application of these prinshape.
ciples to various other

forms should

suggest themselves to the reader,

for

as,

example, conical or splayed niches,

The

heads, &c.

elevation

by

is

repre-

and
Produce a b' and fe until they
intersect in G the apex of a cone
divide the plan into any number of
equal parts indicated by 1,2, 3, &c,
and draw lines radiating from these
points to the centre g then draw the
1.
perpendicular b' b and describe the arc
The quarter plan of the frustum of cone is now indicated by
b d with g as centre.
b, d,g, and the size of veneer must be the length of the line (bdx 4) for top edge,
and (length of line a ex 4) for the bottom edge.
The curve of the veneer or development is found
by describing the arcs a c and d U with G as
Mark the divisions 1, 2, 3, &c, on ac
centre.
along the arc c a and join these points to G, the
joint line for veneer is shown by each of these, and
the whole length of veneer required is (c a x 4).
Geometrical projection and development
applied to an octagonal shape is illustrated in
The outline is drawn first, and to obtain
f. 2.
sented

in

f.

alongside,

b' e

f.

the correct representation of the intersections of

adjoining faces in elevation, a plan is required,

a be, &c. Draw the diagonals bf, eg, &c, and
divide the elevation by drawing horizontals for
reference lines

numbered

reference line No.

1,

2,

3, 4,

&c.

From

drop a perpendicular cutting the diagonals bf and eg in plan, and conThese lines are now
tinue also with 3, 4, and 5.
drawn parallel to each side of the octagon, and
represent sectional plans of the elevation on the
2,

Project the points marked a b, &c, on diagonal

and proceed similarly with the points on diagonal ae,
then complete the elevation by drawing the angle lines through these points.

cutting planes or reference lines.

dh

to the reference lines,

PRACTICAL SETTING OUT AND APPLIED GEOMETRY

To Develop one

2 45

This

method will be understood from the

example draw the centre and reference lines,
when the points for the curves are obtained by measuring the distance of
/// ;/ op, &c, from the centre line of elevation, and transferring to the diagram.
Surface.

description given in the previous

Bevelled
The term "hopper"

is

Work

Development.

generally applied in cabinetmaking to work that

tapers towards the bottom, instances of which occur in pedestals, wine coolers,
caskets, &c.
The method of
obtaining the true cuts at the
angles is shown in f. 2 along-

side

wine cooler.

shown

of

Part

is

ex-

four-sided

ample, and the further application

of the

principles

in-

volved are illustrated in the

splayed corner diagram.

A
simple and straightforward

way

of

of work

executing this class

is to regard the job

a series

of

sheets

of

"

planes " or
metal
developments are thus rendered
as

thin

easier,

and confusion, due to

multiplicity of lines, should not

result.

ae, dJi,

the

The plan

is shown by
and bf,cg; project

elevation

from

these

points after ascertaining and

marking the
to obtain

height.

In order

the true shape of

each piece, one end is first

rebated into the horizontal
plane.

Views showing Method of Projecting Developments.

Use

g as centre and
g h describe an arc

Produce
cutting the bottom line produced in i.
the lines ae, and dh, and drop a perpendicular from i, joining the points as
with radius

shown, which when completed represents the true shape of the ends. Make c f
equal to g i, and produce the line e h, join the points obtained which will give
the true shape of front and back, and the bevels are exactly alike in both cases.

When making the carcase, prepare the stuff and plane edges to fit bevel C,
mark the shape of each piece on the outside, using bevel D for this purpose then
mark mitre lines on top and bottom edges with a set mitre, and cut and plane
;

to the lines.

diagram

f.

1,

The development

of the splayed corner should be clear from the

the cuts being obtained by setting an adjustable bevel to 6y\ degs.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

246

Bevel the edges as before to bevel c and mark the half mitres on each edge (see
lines.
To strengthen the joints, tongue-

bevel E) and then cut and plane to the

ing

sometimes em-

is

ployed, and dovetailing

"

is
excellent if
facing up " is pos-

sible,

whilst

keying

"

effective

is

for

"

ve-

neered work.

An Elliptical
Dome.
Many

illustra-

tions could be given

of vases, domes, wine

&c, of circuand
elliptical

coolers,
lar

shape,

but

ample

shown

the

ex-

ade-

quately illustrates the

method of projection
and of obtaining the
necessary bevels and
cuts, and also the coni.

Views

illustrating

Development of

Elliptical Shapes.

struction

forms.

of

these

Wedge-shaped

segments are used in this case, but the segmental building up, as in a circular
sometimes be employed to advantage. Dry, well-seasoned wood
is of course an essential in this work, and it will be found advantageous to
roughly cut the segments to shape first,
and then allow them to stand about for
some time until the shrinkage is quite
complete before finally jointing and glueing
up to shape. Subsequent shrinkage would
in most cases be almost
impossible to
remedy. To obtain the segments and
bevels requisite for glueing up the shape,
first set out a semi-ellipse full size upon a
board (see f.
above), with a b the minor
axis, and cd half major axis.
Determine
View showing a Rib Chamfered down
the number of segments in the dome, and
to Outline.
table frame, can

draw

to the joint lines radiating to C. Five

templates are necessary to mark the segments, the

drawing the

first of which is obtained by

any convenient distance above the plan. Erect the
equal to the height of the dome, and describe a quarter ellipse

line c1

perpendicular c1

at

PRACTICAL SETTING OUT AND APPLIED GEOMETRY

with a trammel.

dome, diagram
and the inside

G.

The figure c x
The dotted

line

is

see r

c*

now

will

bx

The

this

edge

in

dome

f g
1

is

it

is

The segment

cut.

is

a true quadrant or quarter

plan, proceed to rebate that part

Draw

into the horizontal plane.

marked

fg

It

in plan,

and

erect perpendiculars, cutting the elevation

1

after

finished curved line

the quarter ellipse

represent a half elevation of the

line indicates the outside line of the template,

is

be obvious.
of the

Three remaining templates are now required. The developgiven in diagram K, showing the method, and its application will
To find the true shape of segment

ment of one
marked K

gauged from

obtained in a like manner.

circle,

247

in

From these intersections with the

c d draw horizontals to centre line,

k\

elevation c1

and transfer the revisions to c" c in K diagram,

and then draw the projection parallel to base
l

line cf, with c as centre radii e 3

arcs cutting c f,

/ g

hz

Describe

and erect perpendiculars from

these points until they intersect with the hori-

Marking out the Rib Shapes-

1.

Trace the curve through

ist Stage.
these points of intersection, and proceed similarly with J and L.
To find the plan of each piece, draw the dotted line/^,
equidistant from intersection of K and L, with base line of dome, the bevels
zontal

projectors.

indicating the joint line at the base.

Marking out the Material. The thickness of each

obtained by joining the points marked with dotted line in
drawing a

line parallel to

it

outside the template

for

segment

piece
f.

required

G, p. 246,

1,

Cut a wedge-shaped piece

and plane the upper surface.

line.

e in plan,

The

sides of this piece represent the vertical planes

and

L.

Place the template

the top edge, and then

is

and

K on one

mark out

(see

f.

side level with

1

Pro-

above).

and join the sides together with pencil lines as shown, and then cut to shape.
All the segments are thus prepared, and the templates
ceed likewise with template

L,

are then cut again to the true curve lines.

Carefully

adjust the template on one side of a segment, and

mark out (see f. 2 alongside). The other edge is also

marked in this manner. Then chamfer away the
2.

corner of material

Marking out the Ribs2nd Stage.

down

to curved lines (see

f.

2,

A,

and cut and plane the inside of the segment

from line to line. This chamfering down to the curve
is necessary to ensure the pieces being glued up accurately, and also as a guide
when finishing elliptic work to shape, but it is dispensed with in a circular form
When all the
these are usually turned both inside and outside upon a lathe.
segments have been cut, bevelled, and chamfered, they are fitted in position as
shown in A, 2, p. 246. Dowelling the joints is advisable, and when the position
p. 246),

f.

of dowels in the joint

dowel hole

this

is

is

decided, a pin

allowed to project \

is

in.

driven in the centre of each intended

above surface, and

filed to

a sharp point.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

248

Then

Corresponding centres will

carefully set the pieces together, and press.
then be marked on the other piece after which withdraw the pins and bore the
holes.
Horizontal lines are drawn upon the stuff as a guide when boring, and if
;

lines are also

drawn on the plan the brace and

bit

FIG!

can be held directly in position

above them. The dowel holes
will be bored in line with each

Glueing up is then
proceeded with, and a grip is
obtained for hand-screws by
glueing blocks at intervals.
Each quarter ellipse should
be glued up separately, and
then fitted together.
For
glueing up circular segmental
forms, refer to chapter on
other.

"

Curved Work."

A Circular Dome.
Fig.
lar

dome

represents a circuin

sectional eleva-

and the view is obtained

Sectional Elevation and Plan of a Dome.
by drawing the trimmers or
bearers first, and then the
semicircles which indicate the thickness
and the section of the bottom frame
and curved crown is also drawn in. The rebate line of the crown is obtained by
striking an arc line from the bottom rebate, thus permitting the free entrance of
tion,

glass or panel.

To

obtain the eleva-

draw part plan of

dome and the semicircles a b and c.
Then draw the dotted perpendiculars

tion of the ribs,

until

they cut the inside

line of rib,

joining the points with dotted horizontals.

f e and

Project points of ribs from

d on

to corresponding dotted

and draw the curves for

through these points.
ribs
This
method is approximate only, but
horizontals,

sufficiently accurate

representation.

The

for

purposes of

construction of

FIG. 2.

*'

Showing Method of Intersection

Mouldings on Curved Bars.

for

is shown in plan, segments are butt jointed, dowelled, and secured with hand rail bolts. To obtain
the sections of mouldings in the dome it will be necessary to draw a portion of
the bed frame plan upon a board (see f. 2, A, P., C, D, above).
Draw line A radiating to centre, and then the section of the rib upon this, and the curved lines

the bed frame

PRACTICAL SETTING OUT AND APPLIED GEOMETRY

The

shows the moulding of the bed frame exactly similar

moulding of crown (see f) is again the same
section, but owing to the splayed rebate of this piece, the bead moulding must
be worked to the section shown. This is obtained by drawing projectors 1, 2, 3,
&c, parallel to the rebate line, and through these intersections with f g and //
trace the outline of ogee moulding.
A good mitre intersection is thus obtained,

a, b,

c,

d,

&c.

section E

to the rib section.

249

The

large

used in conjunction with tenoning or dowelling for connecting

show a true mitre line. This example of a dome is most suitable for a passenger lift, and is usually executed in
hard wood, with framed, panelled, and fitted interior. The wood or glass panels
are best secured by screwing the bead mouldings.
or

if

scribing

is

the ribs to the crown, the scribed joint will

CHAPTER

XI.

NOTES ON THE HISTORIC STYLES OF FURNITURE, WITH

EXAMPLES OF MODERN WORK.

Renaissance French Elizabethan Jacobean Queen Anne Eighteenth

Chippendale Hepplewhite Sheraton Adams Victorian Present Day
of Historic Houses open to Public.

Gothic

Century
List

IT would be impossible to give anything like a

account of the development

but as no
book on cabinetwork would be complete without some reference to so important
a feature in the craft, it is thought advisable to refer, however briefly, to the
full

of the various styles of furniture in the course of one chapter,

designers and makers of past periods.

The tendency

of modern furniture design shows a direct influence of some

and no one in the trade can afford to ignore it. Many are content to
simply copy old examples, and houses are still furnished and decorated after the
manner of the Queen Anne, Georgian, or Adam periods. On the other hand, it
style,

is

much more

them

to

desirable that the styles should be studied with a view of adapting

modern

in this direction

taste

and requirements, and there can be no doubt that attempts

would receive public support.

Cabinetmakers, whether master or man,

may

any time be called upon to

upon some style, and
a knowledge of these styles should be as much a part of their " kit " as any one
of their tools. A large number of books are published which illustrate the work
of different periods.
A short list will be found at the end of the book, and it is
to them that reference should be made for fuller information.
Gothic.
Up to the end of the sixteenth century the details of woodwork
and furniture followed very closely on the prevailing style of architecture, and
especially so during the Gothic periods, which covered a course extending over
three centuries, roughly, from the twelfth to the fifteenth.
The gradual changes
from Early English (thirteenth century) to Decorated (fourteenth century) on
to the Perpendicular (fifteenth century) can be seen in the woodwork by the
tracery on panels, the mouldings, and the developments of the arch, from the
restore, copy, or

make

furniture of

any

at

period, or based

lancet as the earliest, the "decorated

"

or "geometric

" in

the fourteenth century

(

and finishing with the

centuries.

Examples

arch in the fifteenth and sixteenth

are given in Chapter X.
These details are still applied
flatter or four-centre

"credence" tables, choir stalls,

and screens, but are not used in household articles. An
old fourteenth-century cabinet is shown in the first chapter, but the pulpit and
to church furniture in chairs, seats, altar, side or
pulpits, font covers,

>

X
X
u
H
<

tS

<!

55

Pi

Plate XXVII.

A Late Seventeenth Century Chest of Drawers.

[To face page 251.

HISTORIC STYLES OF FURNITURE AND

seat on Plate

XXVI.

Harry Hems

&

Cornwall,

is

are

and easier

The

pulpit,

designed for the church at Lantiglos,

which Mr Hems prefers to

Hungarian wainscot, which, though less

chiefly of English oak, a timber

use whenever possible.

costly

251

modern examples of Gothic work from the workshops of

Sons, Exeter.

made

MODERN EXAMPLES

in

The

seat

is

in

the working, does not possess the fine qualities of the

English timber.

Renaissance or Classic Revival. With the " revival of learning " there
came great and sweeping changes in the domestic arts, and with them also came
more luxurious living. The movement began in Italy and spread to France.
The work known as " Historic French" is associated with the reigns of Francis I.
from 15 5 to 1547, and of Henri II. up to 1559. The furniture, made chiefly of
walnut, was richly carved with classic details of a mixed order.
Acanthus
leaves, dentils, egg and tongue, with " cartouche " or moulded panels were some
1

of the details applied to cabinets and other furniture, whilst most of the friezes

and table frames were bulged and carved with " nulling." Curved and broken
pediments and twisted columns were features of the style, which towards the
end of the century became very much debased.
In England, Henry VIII. gave every encouragement to the revival, and
patronised Italian artists and workmen as well as the German artist Holbein,
whose name is associated with much of the work of the period. Panelling with
Classic details were mixed with Gothic,
a circle is associated with his name.
and made up what is known as the Tudor style, beginning with Henry VII. in
The fortified
1485, and ending with the more familiar " Elizabethan" in 1603.
Haddon Hall
castle became less necessary, and the manor house developed.
and Hampton Court are well-known and fine examples of the Tudor style. The
woodwork, as in the Gothic days, followed the architecture, and we find that
cornices, pilasters, columns, &c, resemble as far as possible the classic orders,
although in the transition stage many Gothic features were retained. The
fireplace was the most important piece of work in the room, and it was in this
period that the first extending or " drawinge " table appeared, shown in chapter
on " Tables." Legs of tables were heavy and shaped like an acorn. " Court " or
cheese " cupboards " were built up out of the chest the linen panel, an earlier
detail, was discarded for one which was split into five small panels of various
design, square, circle, and diamond shaped, whilst the circular-headed panels with
The great halls would be
scalloped edges were a feature in the chimneypiece.
furnished with long tables and stools, with heavy oak chairs for use at the head
table, whilst the ponderous bedstead was the most prominent piece of furniture in
the bedroom.
Much of the work was inlaid, and towards the end of the reign it
was largely influenced by the Flemings, and so by the accession of James I. it
had become heavier and coarser in detail. (See Chapter XIV. for types of
panelling.)
Afterwards came the Jacobean style, followed by that sometimes
described as "Stuart," lasting up to 1688, when James II. ceased to reign.
The Elizabethan details and forms were continued, but were added to. Chairs,
tables, settles, chests, dressers, and cabinets came into more general use, many
The court or cheese cupboard
with moulded fronts as in the illustration.
became the principal article in household furniture. The decorative details
were varied by split turning and frets laid on or cut in the solid, and acorn
;

252

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

drops on tables and chairs, whilst the carving developed into incised and simple
Towards the end of the period, and during the
gouge and strap work.
Cromwellian and Stuart days, the gate table was introduced, and chairs were
stuffed or caned.
The style and details varied according to the taste and
Charles II. favoured the French artists, and
patronage of the monarch.
much work of French origin was brought over to add to the magnificence
of the Court.

William and Mary, 1689 to 1702. Up to the end of the seventeenth

century the furniture manufactured in England had been made chiefly of oak,
but with the advent of the Dutch influence walnut was used. The S-shaped and
cabriole leg with curved under stretchers, chairs with wide and curved splats in
the back, bureaux, and chests of drawers on a stand or lower carcase (see
illustration, Plate XXVII.), inlaid grandfathers' clocks, and card tables with
or circular corners, took the place of the heavier and more severe oak
work of the previous century. The Dutch style prevailed under the reign of
Queen Anne, 1702 to 17 14, and continued to influence the furniture of the
During this
reigns of George I. and George II. right up to the year 1750.
period the court cupboard had developed into a dresser, a type common to
Yorkshire and Wales. Most of the walnut work was veneered on yellow deal
and oak with " herring-bone " patterns on the drawer fronts, and round edges to
carcase ends and fronts of drawer rails, which were faced up with a solid slip
with the grain at right angles. The bureaux were made in two parts, an upper
carcase with two drawers, and a framed-up stand (usually with cabriole legs)
with one drawer.
Somewhat later a cupboard or china cabinet was added
to the bureau, and " tall-boy " chests of drawers with a curved frieze were
introduced.
Wall mirrors are a special feature of the Queen Anne period.
They were usually flat with pierced and shaped wings and pediments, whilst
the moulding was often carved and gilt.
"

candle

"

Georgian. If all the furniture made during the reigns of the four Georges
be termed "Georgian," it would cover a period of 115 years, from 1714 to
1829, but the time had come when the style of furniture was no longer to be
known by the name of the reigning monarch, but by the designer. The term
Georgian, however, can well be given to the pre-Chippendale period, which almost
covered the reigns of George I. and George II., from 1714 to 1750, in which year
Chippendale must have been preparing his book of designs, published four years
" Georgian " furniture proper is a continuation of the Dutch and French
later.
This
styles, which were also influenced by the architecture of the period.
period included such a carver as Grinling Gibbons, who died in 1 721, and
architects of the Christopher Wren school, such as Kent, Gibbs, and Ware,
many of whom designed furniture and woodwork. No great change took
place until the middle of the eighteenth century, when the king no longer
dominated the style, and the craftsman received due recognition.
Chippendale. Thomas Chippendale was a carver by trade. He lived and
worked at Worcester, and later came to London, when he started business in
St Martin's Lane.
In 1754 he published the first edition of his book entitled
" The Gentleman's and Cabinet Maker's Director," copies of which are now very
rare, and fetch a high price.
A later edition was published in 1762. The book
is

to

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HISTORIC STYLES OF FURNITURE AND

MODERN EXAMPLES

253

contained designs for all kinds of furniture, from tea kettle stands to organ cases.
Mahogany was just being shipped into England in large quantities, and he made

Chippendale based his designs on Chinese, Gothic, and

The " frets " and " traceries " found in his pediments,
Louis XIV. and XV.
backs,
and
&c, and his Pagoda cabinets, are the direct result
friezes, chair legs
The
influence.
Gothic was not successful, and he did not
the
Chinese
of
pursue it to any great extent, so that his style may be termed Chinese-French.
Of all his furniture perhaps his chairs are the best known, the four noted examples
being the "Lattice" (Chinese), "Ribbon," "Ladder," and " Wheatsheaf," or
The last-named he evidently borrowed from the Queen
pierced " splat " backs.
Anne chair. In legs he used the cabriole, with club and claw and ball foot,
but he
plain or moulded square, tapered, pierced, or square, with fret laid on
designed an endless variety of legs and backs and the same may be said of his
An example is seen in Plate XXVIII.,*
barred doors for cabinets and bookcases.
a cabinet of a later period with a swan-neck and fretted pediment. Other
details peculiar to Chippendale are the "Pagoda" steps on the tops of china
cabinets, " pie-crust " edges on small tea tables, broken and swan-necked
pediments, classic cornices, raised mouldings on flush-panelled doors, and
French curves and shells of Louis XV. (known as " Rococo " details) on carved
and gilt pier glasses. Most of his work was made in the solid, and he did not
use inlay and but very little turning.
R. Gillow, the founder of the present firm, was in business at Lancaster
He came to London, and estabin the last year of the seventeenth century.
The firm earned a reputation for
lished the famous house in Oxford Street.
they sustained throughout the nineteenth century.
first-class work, which
Though not creating a special style, their work was influenced by the
eighteenth-century designers. The firm is now amalgamated with Waring
it

his chief material.

work.

&Co.

The

next firm of note to follow Chippendale was that

published " The Cabinetmaker and Upholsterer's
Guide" in 1789, a book of designs which went through three editions by 1794,
A. Hepplewhite being the widow who published the book and continued the
These designs are more refined than
business of her husband, G. Hepplewhite.
Chippendale's, being based on classic details, and the later French style of
Louis XVI. The "shield," "oval," and "honeysuckle" chair backs are best
known. The legs are usually turned or tapered, and curved, and, as a rule,
His barred
Hepplewhite's chairs are all open-backed, i.e., not stuffed over.
doors are curved, with a " swag " introduced, while his pediments have delicate
All through there
scrolls or swags hanging from a vase as centre ornament.
Heppleis a delicacy of detail as compared with Chippendale's heavy work.
white specialised in " tall-boy " chests, knife boxes and vases, toilet glasses
and bedroom furniture. He used veneer, and other woods than mahogany,
and some of his chairs were painted. His work is recognised by special
details such as " swags " on chairs and barred doors, wheat-ears carved on chair
backs, vases introduced as ornament, carved mouldings, the water-leaf
sideboards with hollow corners, the " husk " in
favourite detail in carving
" fluted " frieze and " reeded " legs.
and
in
the
borders of table tops,
G. Hepplewhite.

of A. Hepplewhite

&

Co.,

who

254

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Sheraton. Not much is known of Thomas Sheraton except his work, and
He was born at
has proved him to be the "master" cabinetmaker.
Stockton-on-Tees in 1751 and served his time at the bench, after which he
came to London and worked as drawing master, author, and cabinetmaker,
although it is doubtful if he ever made up his designs and he was also known
He lived in Soho, and one can imagine the struggles he
as a " local " preacher.
had to bring out his famous book by the record of a friend who writes of his
"threadbare coat," and scantily furnished room, which was "half shop and half
In 1791 he published his book, "The Cabinetmaker's and
dwelling-house."
His designs, as opposed to Chippendale's
Upholsterer's Drawing Book."
flamboyant, and Hepplewhite's finicky details, were straightforward, simple,
and severe. Like the last named he was influenced by classic and Louis XVI.
He too designed oval and
details, but he brought them down to his material.
shield back chairs, but the greater number were square or with a slightly curved
He introduced more turning, discarded any underframing in his chairs,
top rail.
and favoured stuffed all-over seats except where they were caned, as in his
He curved his barred doors, put domes to the tops of
painted examples.
his china cabinets, and introduced a quantity of drapery both inside and outHis sideboards were usually round at the corners, and he utilised the
side.
this

back very largely, as well as introducing the pedestal and

Sheraton was most famous for his veneered work and mechanical
On some- -erf his furniture there is not a single moulding, and he
actions.
was the first to use satinwood to any great extent, as well as to design a
"kidney" writing table. There was no end to his ingenuity in contrivances
His
for double and triple mirrors, rising desks and artful combinations.
"slotted bar" action is described in the chapter on "Mechanical Actions."
He designed the first wardrobe, as we know it, with centre carcase and
brass

at the

rail

leg sideboard.

and was very fond of using the " tambour " shutters for commodes
and small tables. In his last days, which were the first years of the nineteenth century, he published other designs much inferior to his earlier work,
due, no doubt, to the fact that he had to gain a livelihood and so pander to
For types of chair backs,
the bad taste of the period into which he was drawn.
see Chapter XVI. on " Chair Making," &c.
R. and J. Adam. The brothers Robert and James Adam Were architects
who, during the years from 1750 to 1790, designed many large houses in London,
including the Adelphi and Portland Place. The furniture associated with their
name was designed for the houses, which were built in classic style and decorated
dentil, egg and tongue,
Classic mouldings
with delicate Roman details.
acanthus vase and urn swags, husks, scrolls, mythical figures, key borders,
garlands and wreaths, honeysuckle, pateras, flutes and reeds, were all treated
with particular refinement and painted or stuccoed on walls and ceilings, carved
on furniture, woven into carpets, or cast on fireplaces. Much of their furniture
was painted and gilt, the painting being done by such notable artists as Angelica
wings,

Kauffmann, Pergolesi, and Cipriani.

There are many designers of furniture whose names are not so well known
as those already given, but they deserve some mention here.
M. Lock and H. Copeland published "A New Book of Ornaments" in

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HISTORIC STYLES OF FURNITURE AND MODERN EXAMPLES

255

Their original drawings can be seen in the National Library at

1752.
Kensington, and consist of designs in the Rococo style.
Thomas Johnson, carver, published books in 1758-1761. His designs were
largely Rococo.
Ince and Mayhew published in 1762 "The Universal System of Household Furniture," with designs in the Chippendale style, and the cluster column
table.

and Cabinetmaker's Darling," published 1765

J. Crunden, "The Joiner's
and 1796.
Robert Manwaring, cabinetmaker, published "The Cabinet and Chairmaker's Real Friend and Companion" in 1765, and a later edition in 1766.
His designs were chiefly for chairs with interlacing and natural "rustic" backs,
but his work closely resembles Chippendale's.

Thomas Shearer, cabinetmaker, published designs similar to Sheraton's in

The Cabinetmaker's London Book of Prices and Designs of Cabinet Work,"
issued by the London Society of Cabinetmakers in 1793.
Thomas Hope published " Household Furniture and Interior Decora-

"

tion " in

This was an attempt to revive Greek and Roman forms in

of chairs, tables, sideboards, &c.
It is sometimes spoken
English Empire style," and was the forerunner of the early

1807.

the construction
of

as

the

"

Victorian.

French

Styles.

The

style

named

after

Louis Quatorze (XIV.) covers a

period of seventy-two years, from 1643 to 171 5.

In its early stages it followed
the Renaissance details of preceding epochs, but gradually developed into the

heavy curves, S and cabriole

legs, and magnificence of detail which characterMost notable is the work of Andre Charles Boule
(known in England as Buhl), who was the king's cabinetmaker. His inlaying
and technical methods are described in the chapter on " Veneering and
Marquetry."
The reign of Louis Quinze (XV.), 171 5-1774, includes the

ised the taste of the times.

Regency," i.e., the first eight years of the king's minority. The style soon
developed into what is known as " Rococo," and is commonly spoken of as " rock
and shell," and " pebble and splash " ornament. Oeben and Riesener were
celebrated cabinetmakers of the period.
The former designed the King's
Bureau, the famous piece of cabinetwork known as " Le Bureau du Roi," now
in the Louvre.
It is one of the earliest known "cylinder falls," and is magnificently decorated with " ormolu " mounts.
Louis Seize (XVI.), 1774- 1793. I" tn s reign there is a distinct return to
simpler lines and details.
Legs of tables and chairs were straight and tapering,
and the mounts were more refined. Brass mouldings and galleries, and marble
tops were favourite features, and veneering and marquetry were largely used.
The diaper patterns in veneer, though commenced in Louis XV.'s reign, may
be associated chiefly with Riesener in Louis XVI. work, whilst Gouthiere, who
"

also

worked

in the

previous period, did his finest work in the same years. One
is the " lacquer " work known as " Vernis Martin,"

special feature of this period

the

name

of

its

inventor.

From

this

may

be dated the French polish of modern

furniture.

Empire, 1799-1814.

This

style

was influenced by the Egyptian, Roman,

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

256

and was developed during the Napoleonic

and cabinets were designed principally to illustrate
Caryatides, sphinxes, rams, and a mixture of animal and
the mythologies.
human figures were used to enrich them. Mounts were retained, but were
simpler, and were confined to bases and caps for columns, and mouldings for
Brass lines and bands were frequently used in panels, and the backs
panels.
and Greek work,
period.

chiefly the latter,

Chairs, tables,

of chairs, whilst metal grilles or silk took the place of the barred doors
the style

made

itself felt

in

" Pillar

England.

and claw

"

when

tables are a feature

of this period.

Victorian.

The

furniture

made
"

in

the early years of this period was an

Empire

"

style, without the brass mounts,

probably no time in the history of English furniture when
This is the more remarkable coming after the
taste was at such a low ebb.

unsuccessful attempt to copy the

and

there

is

and it was not until after the " fifties " that
serious attempts were made to improve matters.
Up to this time the best
examples were heavy and cumbersome, such as the pedestal sideboards with low
wooden or mirror backs and mouldings overweighted with carving, the smaller
" chiffonier," the " pillar and claw " tables, of which the oval " Loo table " was
one specially designed for the game of Loo, and which is still made, though in
diminishing numbers. Chairs and "sofas" were made with ponderous curves,
and covered with horsehair, whilst " what-nots " in burr walnut, and mirror
frames with Tunbridge work in all colours of the rainbow, were among the
smaller articles.
The introduction of new woods produced some changes.
Thus, mahogany wardrobes gave place to birch and bird's-eye maple, and
they too had to make way for ash and American walnut. There was a
period when " black and gold " cabinets were quite a rage, and rosewood was
A later development
revived with marquetry, only to be discarded in its turn.
was in "spindle" rails and "fretwork," and with bevelled glass came a great
As early as 1835 Augustus Pugin, an architect,
trade in "overmantels."
published his " Designs for Gothic Furniture," which did little more than
draw attention to the need for reform, although many of his designs were
made up. Bruce J. Talbert, who designed for Gillovvs, published a book
in 1868 entitled "Gothic Forms applied to Furniture," and in 1876 another
on Jacobean work, whilst in the same year, 1868, Mr Charles Eastlake pubMr
lished his " Hints on Household Taste," which ran into several editions.
Eastlake, who was an architect, designed work for Jackson & Graham, a firm
of high repute in those days, and both his and Talbert's designs had a widespread influence in the cabinet trade. They were responsible for the return to
what was called " Early English " work, chiefly in oak. Talbert designed the
" Pet" sideboard, so named from the pet animals carved in the panels
and he
introduced the carcase sideboard with high or low back, spindle galleries, turned
supports to shelves, and reeding and fluting along door rails and drawer fronts,
with incised work in the panels, all largely a revival of Jacobean detail.
Eastlake worked more closely to Gothic influences, and his designs are suitable
only for oak work.
William Morris, 1860-96, by his work and lectures on decorative art
created a deep interest in all that went to the building, beautifying, and furnishbrilliant half of the previous century,

Plate XXXII.

Italian
{Designed by

Mr

Walnut

Inlaid Cabinet.

George Jack, and made by Messrs Morris or

Co.,

Oxford

Street,

W.)

To face page 256.

Plate XXXIII.

Dressinc, Table and

(Designedly

Mr

Chair Part

of a

"Harewood"

Ambrose Heal, fun., of Messrs Heal

Suite.

& Son, London.)

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Plate XXXV.

Sideboard Veneered with Burr Elm.

Print Cabinet

in

Italian

Walnut with Raised

By

Mr

Inlay.

E.

W. Gimson.

By

Mr

E. VV.

Gimson.

[To face page 527.

HISTORIC STYLES OF FURNITURE AND

MODERN EXAMPLES

257

He designed furniture, textiles, and carpets, and wall-papers

which have had a world-wide sale. The furniture had a tendency to Gothic
forms, and much of it was painted, carved, or inlaid.
But he is best known
by his wonderful designs in wall-papers and textiles, which were based on
natural forms entirely.
In 1861 he established the firm of Morris & Co., of
Oxford Street, and was largely responsible in forming the Arts and Crafts
The two cabinets illustrated, one as the frontispiece, are examples of
Society.
the fine type of work done by this firm.
They were designed by Mr George Jack,
and are reproduced by permission of
-%'
E. H. Marillier, Esq.
The "New Art" development,
which took place in the last years of the
ing of a house.

nineteenth century, led rather to eccentricity in form and construction than to

any well-based ideas of reform in taste.

laudable desire for simpler furniture

in the manufacture of goods

which were neither simple nor sane, and
produced a temporary return to rough
and ready methods of construction, which
were admirably suited to the rude necessities of bygone centuries, but insufficient

resulted

modern needs. A marked feature in

the work was the revival of inlaying as
a decorative medium, but this too was
very largely carried toexcess. In England
the influence of New Art was but moderately felt as compared with France
for

or Austria, where the ordinary lines of

furniture were distorted into shapes quite

unsuitable for constructional woodwork.

Examples of this work may be studied in

Museum. In America
there has been a similar movement,
known as " The Mission Style," which
is more or less a revival of Gothic and
Jacobean forms applied to modern work.
Modern Work and Designers. Present-day tendencies are in the direction
of sound principles in design and construction, based on past work and traditions.
These traditions illustrate some of the finest efforts of English craftsmanship,
which if applied to modern requirements should lead to the production of
the Bethnal Green

furniture equal to

any of the best periods.

The photograph above shows

a fine satinwood cabinet with

some

interesting

and construction. It was designed by Mr R. Waterer, jun.i

and made for the Countess de Morella by Messrs Waterer & Sons, of Chertsey,
one of the few good and old-established firms where handwork is done, and
details in design

17

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

2 5 >S

where

The

is

it

still

possible for a

young craftsman

to get an all-round training.

cabinet was designed as a centre case with a framed-up table part on eight

which were cut out of the solid and are finished with what is known as
Spanish foot," a detail found on chairs and tables of the late Stuart period.
The case is made up of eight frames dowelled into posts which run up in a
The bottom is screwed up into a rebate, and the top, which
line with the legs.
is thick nessed up, is dowelled down to the frames.
The doors are hinged at both
ends, and plate-glass shelves rest on metal pins in each post.
Altogether it is a
piece of work which called for fine skill and intelligence on the part of the maker.
Mr Ambrose Heal, jun., of Heal & Son Ltd., Tottenham Court Road, has
designed bedroom furniture on old models, but with many new and interesting
features.
Good proportion and simple lines are its chief characteristics, and the
wardrobe (Plate XXXIV.) and dressing-table (Plate XXXIII.) illustrate them.
The firm has also revived the wooden bedstead, and make up the "four poster"
88), which, with spring mattress and frame, is free from any objection on the
(p.
score of health and cleanliness.
The " cupboard chest " in oak, chestnut, or
Mr
painted deal, is an attempt to supply useful and good cottage furniture.
Heal also designed the special bedroom suite for the King's Sanatorium. In
The sideboard in
recent years he has been the pioneer of painted furniture.
Plate XVIII., in silver and blue, is an example of simple and effective treatment

legs,

the

"

in colour.

The fine satinwood wardrobe in Plate XXI. is an excellent specimen of

modern work based on eighteenth-century design. It comes from the Bath
Cabinet Makers Co., and the walnut sideboard in Plate XL. is from the
same firm.
The oak sideboard, also in Plate XL., was designed by Mr Fred Skull,
of High Wycombe.
It is very pleasant in its proportions and simple outlines,
and the knobs, turned in yew-wood, add a distinct interest to the design.
The Furniture Design and Cabinet Making Classes in the L.C.C. Institutes
have turned out some fine pieces of craftsmanship. The Frontispiece (Plate I.),
a china cabinet in coromandel, palm, and snakewood, and the cabinet in
Plate XIX., come from the Central School of Arts and Crafts.
The sideboard
in Plate XVII. and the satinwood writing cabinet in Plate XX. are from the
Shoreditch Technical Institute. The last-named piece won the Silver Medal
in the City and Guild Competition, 1920.
Mr Charles Spooner is an architect who is also a furniture designer.
The furniture in the room (Plate V.), and the oak dresser (Plate XLI.), are
typical examples of his work on simple and traditional lines.
Mr Frank Stuart Murray, of the firm of Durand, Murray, & Seddon,

many

years been recognised as one of the leading designers of furniture

and decoration, and has completed many large and important commissions,

has

for

the most recent being the decorations and fittings for the Cunard liner S.S.
"

model of part of the saloon is shown in the photograph

XXXVIII.), and a pencil drawing (Plate XXXIX.) of the decoration
and panelling in one bay of the smoking-room. The woodwork in the saloon
is of Italian
walnut, and this type of work requires a special knowledge
of ship construction.
Joints have to lap to allow for " camber " and expansion,
Mauretania."

(Plate

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Plate XXXVII.

An Eighteenth Century Garden Seat at Jesus College, Oxford.

Garden Furniture. By Mr J. P. White, Pyghtle Works, Bedford.

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Plate XXXIX.

Bay of Smokinc-Room on
{Designed by

Mr

S.S.

"

Maurktania."

Frank Stuart Murray.)

Plate XL.

Walnut Sideboard.

Oak

Sideboard.

{Designed by

By the Bath Cabinetmakers Co.

Mr

F. Skull {Skull

&-

Son,

High Wycombe).)
\Toface Plate xxxix.

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HISTORIC STYLES OF FURNITURE AND

and the fittings are made to templates.
was designed by Mr A. E. Durand.

Good

furniture

for

the

the " wheel-backed

is

ft.

10

ground 18

in.

"

The

(Plate

XXXVI.)

is

XXXVII. was

chair, the forerunner of the "

and depth

in.

The grand piano

259

worthy of special attention. The

photographed in the grounds
made of beech, and is of the same period as

garden

eighteenth-century seat on Plate

of Jesus College, Oxford.
It is

MODERN EXAMPLES

Windsor"

pattern.

The

length

height of back from seat 25 in., and seat from

shaping of the seat shows it to have been specially made
17

in.,

of garden furniture below it are by Mr J. P. White, of

Pyghtle Works, Bedford, the top one, in teak, showing a marked eighteenthcentury influence, with some of the delicacy of Adam detail associated with
strong construction suitable for outdoor use.
The late Mr E. W. Gimson was also a well-known designer and maker
of good furniture. The Italian walnut cabinet and sideboard (Plate XXXV.)
show a considerable degree of original treatment, especially in the inlay, which is
thick enough to allow for a slight modelling of the leaves.
Historic Houses Open to the Public.
In concluding this chapter, attention should be drawn to the number of famous mansions containing fine
collections of historic furniture, which, by the courtesy of the owners, are open
Hatfield House, on Bank Holidays Easter,
to the public at stated periods.
Whitsun, and August Audley End, Saffron Walden, on Wednesdays, 2 to 4 P.M.
Claydon House, Bucks, by permission Haddon Hall, Derbyshire, every day
and Chatsworth and Hardwick are also open when the
in the summer months
family is not in residence.
Strangers' Hall, Norwich, contains an extremely
interesting and varied collection which can be seen on payment of 6d.
Hampton Court Palace is open every day but Friday Petworth House,
Sussex, famous for its Grinling Gibbons' carvings, on Tuesdays and Fridays
at 1 1 o'clock only
Goodwood House, near Midhurst, when the family is away
and Battle Abbey, Hastings, Tuesdays only, 12 to 4 P.M. Knole House,
Sevenoaks, most celebrated for its examples of Jacobean work, is open on
Thursdays and Saturdays, 2 to 5 P.M., and Fridays and Bank Holidays, 10 to
At Penshurst Place, also in Kent,
5 P.M., admission 2s., reduced for parties.
a fine old hall with trestle and " high " tables, centre fireplace and open roof,
can be seen on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays, 2 to 6 P.M.,
admission is., by ticket obtained at the Post Office or "Leicester Arms."
Ightham Mote, near Sevenoaks, is open on Fridays, 1 1 A.M. to 1 P.M. and
2 to 6 P.M., admission 6d.
Fine collections of furniture of all periods may be
seen at the Victoria and Albert and Bethnal Green Museums, and French
furniture in the Wallace Collection.
A very interesting collection can be seen
at the Geffrye Museum in Kingsland Road, N.E., open daily.
for

two.

The

sets

CHAPTER

XII.

CONSTRUCTIONAL AND DECORATIVE BRASSWORK, MOVE

MENTS, AND FITTINGS.
Hinges, Butt, Centre, Screen, Desk, Card Table, Piano, Dolphin, Rule Joint, Wardrobe,
Ouadrant, &c.
Hinge Plates Locks, Cut and Straight Cupboard, Pedestal, Box,

Wardrobe, Link Plate, Bird's Beak, Till Drawer, Bureau, &c. Thumb, Bale, French
and Bullet Catches Cupboard Turns Toilet Glass Movements and Screws
Wardrobe, Quadrant, and Rule Joint Stays
Bolts
Escutcheons
Castors
Cabinet Handles
Galleries
Mounts Sideboard Rails
Movements for MusicStools
Library Chairs Cylinder Fall Desks
Harlequin Tables Shaving Mirrors
Rising Dumb Waiters and Cellarets Bed Tables Locking Movements.

CABINET brasswork can be

divided into two parts, viz., the purely constructive

would be impossible to describe in detail all the various
types in either part, but descriptions of the most important are given, together
with their application to special kinds of furniture. Some examples not named
in this chapter will be found with the designs on pp. 134, 136, 143, 168, 171,
172, 183, 186, 191, and 195.
Hinges. Types of hinges are shown opposite. Fig. 1 is an ordinary
" Brass Butt," made from 1 to 6 in. long, polished or sanded, and pressed (as in
solid, the latter being the best quality known as arrow butts.
f. 2), or
These
hinges are used on doors generally, and sometimes have turned knobs at each end

and the decorative.

It

of the knuckle, a later addition being the " Rising Butt " for room doors.
Fig. 2
is the " Stopped Butt," used for box lids, &c, the flange of which should stop at
right angles.
Butt hinges are also made to lift off. Cross garnet and H hinges
front.
Fig. 3 is the Back Flap with wider flanges for fall-down
and
5 the Rule Joint flap hinge with one flange longer to allow for the
hollow on the joint. A special rule joint hinge is shown on p. 267, the bend
preventing any cutting away in the joint. Fig. 4 shows the Strap Hinge as
used for desks and jobs which have but narrow fixing room. Fig. 6 is the patent
Reversible Hinge for screens, and
Another form of strap
7 the non-reversible.
hinge is shown in
8, whilst
9 and 10 are the Knuckle Joint Screen Hinges
used on screens with a draught-proof joint. Fig. 9 is the movement top and
bottom, and
10 is fixed in the centre (see following pages for fixing).
is
Fig.
the Dolphin Hinge for secretaire flaps (the dotted lines show alternative shape,
see p. 172), and
12 is the Piano Hinge, made in lengths from 5 in. to 4 ft.
On
p. 263, f. 1 shows the Quadrant Hinge, very useful for flaps and lids, and only
where it is possible to cut away the stuff for the quadrant to pass. Fig. 2 the
Wardrobe Hinge, with one wide flange to screw to the carcase end for extra
strength, and
3, 4, 5, and 6 are types of link joint or Card Table hinges for

screw on the
flaps,

f.

f.

f.

f.

f.

f.

f.

260

CONSTRUCTIONAL BRASSWORK, MOVEMENTS, AND FITTINGS

Types of Hinges.

261

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

262

edge and top

use, leaving a flush surface

and

on

either, as against a

Centre Hinge, with hole plate

Fig. 7 the

butt hinge.

knuckle

for the carcase

in

and pin

8 is a similar hinge with a neck.

These centre hinges
and other heavy doors which are fitted with plate glass,
and the diagrams on p. 266 show methods of centring and fixing. Fig. 9 shows
The thumb-screw would be reversed,
a Wardrobe Stay which is cut for space.
and screwed up under the top, and the end plate is also screwed on the door.
are the Ball and Socket movements for toilet glasses, and
Figs. 10 and
12
is the Screw used for similar purposes on smaller swing mirrors of the Hepplewhite type. Dovetail Centres are also used as a movement on common work.
Spring Catches are shown in
13, which is the " Bullet," or " Bale," and
14, the French catch, both suitable for pedestal and small cupboard doors when
" Thumb Catches " are used to fix upright secretaire
a lock is not required.

plate for the door,

f.

are used for wardrobe

f.

f.

flaps.

Locks.

These vary

are " right" and "left

which the bolt shoots.

into the

stile,

whilst

f.

in

hand

size,

"

Fig. 15

16

is

and are usually measured on the length, and

as needed, terms used to indicate the direction in

is

"Cut" cupboard

lock,

made

to cut flush

a Straight cupboard lock to screw on to the

stile,

which the bolt shoots either hand. Fig. 17 shows a Pedestal or Linkplate
lock, used where the door shuts on to the carcase end, and the bolt shoots
through the link, whilst f. 18 is another of a similar make when the lock is cut
on the carcase end. The other way up it serves also as a Desk Lock. The
Fig. 19, the " Bird's
links are shown, but in the lock they would not be seen.
Beak " lock, sunk in a mortise, and used sometimes for piano and other falls.
When locked the beaks spring into holes in the plate. Fig. 20 is the Box
Lock, with a similar action to the one used on desks, and f. 21 shows a simple
fastening known as Cupboard Turn or Button.
Till Locks have a single bolt,
which shoots up into the bearer above, and are used as drawer locks. Patent
Piano Locks have a similar action, but the bolt is notched to take two spring
catches up in the plate.
A specially good type of lock is the Brahma, with a
nozzle which forms a plate for the keyhole.
As a rule keyholes are protected
with escutcheons to fit the hole or plates which are fixed around them. Wardrobe locks have a shooting bolt for key, and a spring catch for the handle.
The
main thing to remember in cutting locks on, is to carefully gauge the centre of
the pin for the keyhole, which should be bored first.
Bolts are " flush " when the barrel is not seen and the plate is level with
the face, and open and " straight," or " necked," when the barrel is outside.
Spring Bolts screw on the face, and are cased to cover the spring.
Round Socket for turned, and square for tapering legs, with
Castors.
Others have a screw with a plate and ring, whilst large
brass or china wheels.
A new patent is the
ones have only an iron pin with a plate for screwing.
Ball Castor, which moves in a cup on ball bearings.
Quadrant Stays. Fig. 1, p. 264, shows an ordinary quadrant used for flaps
and falls. They are made in various sizes, and some have a spring near the end
Care must
of the plate, which has to be nipped in before the flap can be closed.
in

be taken to

fix it at

the

Rule Joint Stays,

same
f.

2.

radius, or trouble will follow.

This

is

the

more common form of support

or

CONSTRUCTIONAL BRASSWORK, MOVEMENTS, AND FITTINGS

Types of Hinges, Glass Movements, Locks, &c.

263

264
"

stay

a rule.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

" for

a flap,

To

fix

it,

and takes

its

name from

the centre joint, which

mark

take half the length from pin to pin and

similar to

is

from A to B

off

and C, then fix the plate at C and draw a square line from B as shown. The centre
must then be fixed exactly on the line. The diagram may be read as a falldown flap or box lid raised, but the same method in fixing must be adopted.
The dotted part shows
Heavy,
the flap closed.
square flaps are supported by a long stay

made

of thin metal,

way

similar

to

in a
steel

by a knee iron
which shuts up behind
rule, or

see

pilaster,

op-

f.

posite.

Cylinder

Fall

Movements. These
I.

Quadrant Support

for Flaps.

vary according to the job.

Two simple methods are
used, shown on next
Fig. 2 opposite is
page.

an angle orquadrant iron

of

out

cut

stuff,

thin

fV-in.

and fixed to the

radius as indicated, the

centre working on a pin

in a plate.

Fan

Iron,

sheet

stuff,

Fig. 3

is

the

cut out of

and

both

in

cases the end of the

fall

to take

the

thickness.

With the

fan

iron

necessary to

is

fix

rebated

it

is

a thin false end on

the inside to cover the

iron.

Either

can

be

worked with or without

a tongue on the end of
the

fall,

and

sliding flap
2.

Method

of Fixing Rule Joint Stay.

if

there

it

can only

is

be pulled out after the

Fig. 4 shows
fall is up.
known as the Slotted Bar.

more complex but combined movement, which is

Sheraton appears to have been the first to adopt it. The bar is of ,V m iron
and about 1] in. wide. To find the centre for an)" given radius to the fall, draw
the bar in position when both fall and slider are shut, as seen at A, and repeat
the drawing when both are open, as at C.
Where they cross will be the centre,
a

>

CONSTRUCTIONAL BRASSWORK, MOVEMENTS, AND FITTINGS

and

if

set out again half

way

265

as

at B, the length of the lower slot

is

obtained, whilst

gives the

lower end of the upper slot and

B the top end. A small plate
fixes the centre pivot, and a

end

filling-in

be necessary
tongue on

will

fall

preferable.

is

The

shaded portion shows the position of the stationery case, and

the diagram illustrates the move-

ment

for

in the

chapter on

the

The lower

to cover the bar.

the

secretaire
"

/
/

cabinet

Table Work."

1.

Method

of Supporting

Heavy

Flaps.

carcase

might have to be
cut

away

the

length of the

but

bar,

to

take

':/

de-

this

pends on thickness
of rail, and care
must be taken to
m ake the slots work
smoothly on the
This movepivot.
ment works best

when

the

fall

is

less

than a quarter

of a

circle.

Ameri-

can roll-top desks

have

no

ment,"

movework

"

but

a groove like
tambour.
The
ogee or bead slips
are rebated one in
the other, f. 1, next
in

page, and are wired,

hinged, or glued on

Other
movements, which

to canvas.

are

nearly

all

patents, are screws

for

music

stools,

centres for revolv-

ing chairs and

(see chapter

on

dumb
"

waiters, reversible joints for shaving mirrors

Tables

"),

and bed tables

reading flaps for chairs, automatic lockings (see chapter

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

266

on

"

Office

Work "), and

harlequin table movements, as well as a

number of patent

Extending screws

devices for invalid furniture and office cases.

for dining-tables

are described in the chapter on "Tables."

On some old "diners" brass clips were

used to lock the extra leaves together.
An iron bracket has taken the place of
the wooden one, with a finger joint,
cheap Pembroke tables.
Special
methods of supporting shelves are illustrated in chapter on " Carcase Work."
for

i.

"Tambours"

for Roll-top

Desks.

Tiles are fixed to vvashstand backs with

made

a special screw, and pivots are

for card table tops.

The

quality of

all

brasswork varies with the price cheap

locks are made with iron cases and
;

brass facings, and iron

up with very
2.

Fixing a Butt Hinge

3.

on Door inside
Carcase End.

Butt Hinge fixed

on to Carcase End.

is

faced

often

thin brass.

Setting out and Centring Hinges.

reference to the double sheet of
shutting joints will at once illustrate the

different

types

of centres

for

hinges,

and fixing becomes a simple matter if due

thought is given to the setting out before any
In ordinary butts the gauge
fixing is begun.
should be set from the outside of the flange

and a line gauged

on the edge to cut to. Fig. 2 above shows the
" butt " used on a door when fixed inside the
The knuckle will show full, and the
carcase.
whole thickness of the hinge at the knuckle is
cut into the door stile, but it tapers towards the
back to the thickness of the flange, whilst the
4- Method of Finding Centre and
Fixing Centre Hinge.
opposite flange is let in flush as shown. On
cheap work the whole hinge would be cut into
the door and the carcase flange screwed on the
The gauge mark on the carcase is the same
face.
as that on the door, plus the distance the door
stands in.
Fig. 3 shows a similar hinge when the
door shuts on to the carcase end and when the cutIn this case the door would
ting in is equalised.
swing round clear of the end. Fig. 4 is the plan
of a centre hinge showing a method of finding
Method of Fixing a Neck
5Divide the thickness of the stile into
the centre.
to the centre of the pin,

Centre Hintre.

three

as

seen

in

the

corner of the rebate

the

first

dividing

line,

which gives the point, and

the line about an eighth of an inch

it

will

dotted

lines.

From

the

strike a mitre line to cut

if this point is taken along

ensure a clearance when open, as the

CONSTRUCTIONAL BRASSWORK, MOVEMENTS, AND FITTINGS

The same

diagram shows.
door.

Fig.

267

centre will give the rounding for the back of the

opposite gives the neck centre, used

a break or moulding on the carcase or pilaster.

when it is necessary to clear

The centre is usually on the

its position depends entirely on the projection to

In both cases it is safest to make a zinc template from which
be cleared.
both top and bottom parts can be marked off. The special rule joint hinge
shown in f. 1 below is much simpler than the ordinary flat one. In this the
flange is bent underneath instead of being cut into the wood, thus saving the
danger of an open joint when the flap
is
down, and allowing any variation in
The hinge was
the depth of the square.

front line of the door, but

invented

by

Mr W.

E.

Degerdon, and

a table maker will at once see

advantages.
The setting
tical

its

prac-

out

for

both hinges is the same, and the centre

must be under the square as shown,
which a gauge line underneath the top
will give.

The

1.

Patent Rule Joint Hinge.

centre for striking the joint

from the intersection of the square

and the thickness line of the hinge.

first, and then cramp the joint up
tight and mark off the opposite flange.
Fig. 2 shows top and centre parts of the
knuckle joint screen hinge. A the plan of the top, and B showing the double
joint and pin, with c the centre in which the piece D is mortised into the
stile of the screen and pinned through, the knuckle part being cross-cut to allow
is

It is

line

usual to cut the small flange into the top

this to

be fixed.

In another

make

of this hinge the flange D

edge of the stile and screwed
position.

has

and

The patent

is

in

cut into the

an upright

reversible screen hinge

made the above somewhat out of date

much simpler to fix, but no other screen

is

hinge gives such a good draught- proof joint.

Decorative

Metal

Work.

Up

to

the

seventeenth century most of the metal fittings

on furniture were of iron. Hinges, lock plates,
handles,

&c, were highly decorative

in character,

but the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries

brought other woods than oak into use, and

brasswork came into general favour. Much
Top and Centre of Knuckle Joint
good work is often spoiled by bad metal fitScreen Hinge.
tings, and handles often go a long way to
make or mar a job. Handles have varied in shape with the periods of furniture, and we have Louis, Empire, Queen Anne, Chippendale, Adam, and
other forms of metal work.
In the nineteenth century wooden knobs were
prevalent, but it has long since been the custom in the metal trades, which
cater for cabinetwork, to produce fittings in "style," and it is for this
reason that we give a selection of handles on the next page. Fig. 1 shows a
Louis XVI. knob, full size. Fig. 2 is a plan of the top, and f. 3 the back
plate with section below.
The decoration is of a type much imitated by the

:63

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Types of French Handles.

CONSTRUCTIONAL BRASSWORK, MOVEMENTS, AND FITTINGS

269

English furniture designers of the eighteenth century, especially Adam. The

right through and fastened with a
Fig. 4, p. 268, is a ring drop handle of the same period, but later, the handle
nut.
itself being rectangular in section as seen by the diagram underneath.
Fig. 5
is a Louis XV. type with Rococo forms, which were sometimes also copied by
Chippendale. The illustrations were drawn from the actual examples kindly
lent for the purpose by Messrs Shirley & Co., of Percy Street, London, as was
also f. 3 in the next set on p. 270, where examples from pieces of furniture in

knob would be fixed by the spindle going

Museum

at South Kensington are shown.

Fig. 1 is a silver handle from
famous
eighteenth-century
the
satinwood toilet table, painted by Angelica
Kauffmann. The back plate is slightly raised in the centre and delicately
engraved with a swag. Fig. 2 is from the same cabinet on a smaller drawer.
Both are extremely dainty and all that a handle should be. Fig. 3 is of
modern make, but based on one of early eighteenth-century date. Fig. 4, a
small keyhole plate from an old bureau, and f. 5, a cabinet door handle,
evidently taken from an iron one of an earlier period.
The handle in f. 6 is
typical of the later eighteenth century, and is taken from an old mahogany
card table. The spindles go right through the drawer front and fix with a nut
on the inside. The shape of the drop and back plate vary considerably, as only
single sets for each job would be made.
Figs. 7, 8, and 9 are peculiar to the
Queen Anne furniture, and sometimes the drop is made of solid metal, but 7 is
often of thin stuff and halved.
An escutcheon or keyhole plate is shown in
f.
10, and f. 1 1 is a small brass handle from an old bureau.
Needless to say
that scores of patterns might be given, but those shown are typical.
Iron
handles are again coming into favour, and oxidised copper and white metal are
also in demand.
Drawer " pulls " are fixed, and are both sunk into or screwed
on the face. " Flush handles " are usually sunk into the plate which is cut into
a drawer front or sliding door level with the face.
Both are chiefly used in office
and shop furniture. Special handles are made for chair backs and butlers' trays.
Mounts are generally of brass, and vary from the richly modelled " ormolu "
mounts on the French work to simple rings, caps, and bases, for clock case and
other columns. "Ormolu" is an alloy of various metals, and the elaborate
mounts made of it are best illustrated on the Marie Antoinette toilet table in
the chapter on " Styles."
The cabriole leg lent itself to such decoration, but
this style of metal ornament has not found
much demand in England.
Galleries are often used on the tops of small tables and cabinets, and brass
mouldings fixed round the edges of table tops, of which examples are given
in the chapter on " Table Work."
In eighteenth-century work brass " grilles " of
thin wire or heavier metal were used in doors of cabinets and bookcases, and
the shutting bead was often of brass.
Sheraton, Hepplewhite, and Adam sideboards were fitted with brass rails at the back (see the Adam sideboard, p. 153),
and the grandfather clock cases of the same period often mounted with a
quantity of brass. Galleries, sideboard rails, beads, and mounts of various
description are to be obtained ready for use, but on special jobs they have to
be made. Picture and window rods, cornice poles, portiere rods, wardrobe
hooks and yokes, and brass towel rails, with all furnishing fittings, come more
or less into outdoor fitters' work.

the

270

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Types of Drop Handi.ks.

CHAPTER

XIII.

MACHINE TOOLS AND MACHINING-MOULD1NGS.

Machines,

Hand and

Power, Planing, Thicknessing, Mortising, Dovetailing, Grooving,

Saws, Circular, Band, Frame, Fret -Lathes

Moulding, Jointing, Mitreing, Boring

and Lathework

Examples

of

Mouldings,

Classic,

Gothic,

French,

Jacobean,

Eighteenth Century.

MACHINERY now plays an important part in the production of furniture. It

has introduced a new type of workman now known as a machinist, and another
who is a "fitter up" of the work turned out by the machine. Much has been
said both for and against machinery, but there must always remain a very large
work

cabinetmaker which the machine can never doworked with handle

" fret " or " scroll " saws of the American type, small lathes, and
or treadle
mortising machines. They are all valuable in a small shop where power is not
obtainable, but since the advent of the electric motor these hand machines
residue of

Hand machines

for the skilled

are chiefly confined to small circular saws,

much

demand. The small circular saw with a rising table and

one of the most useful machines in a shop, for apart from
the usual sawing it can be utilised for cutting grooves, rebates, and starting
tenons, whilst the boring attachment saves time in dowelled work.
It would take up too much valuable space to give illustrations of all the
machines used, and though a knowledge of the uses of such should come within the
cabinetmaker's experience, it must be said that they are quite secondary to
The three examples illustrated
his need for skill and resource at the bench.
are made by Messrs Wilson Bros., Holbeck, Leeds, who have kindly lent
The band saw on Plate XLIL, p. 272, is
the photographs for reproduction.
made on the latest improvements, fitted with ball bearings which reduce
the strain and are dust-proof, both values which increase the life of a
machine. Both wheels are covered with rubber, and the table cants, and
has an extension. Such a saw is indispensable in a machine shop. On the
same Plate a " hand feed planing, jointing, and moulding machine " is shown
Besides planing and surfacing, this machine does
for high speed running.
jointing, chamfering, and rebating, and sticking light mouldings such as
sash bars, &c.
The "circular saw" shown on Plate XLIIL, p. 273, has a
rack rising top and self-acting feed, and is fitted with an adjustable canting
fence.
It is suitable for tenoning, ripping, and cross-cutting, grooving, tongueThis firm also
ing, and moulding, with the addition of a cutter block.
supplies the patent " chain " and " hollow chisel " mortising machine.
The
chain works on the principle of a dredger, and cuts a very clean mortise
with a circular finish at the base, and the " hollow chisel " is an ingenious an d
are not so

boring attachment

in

is

272

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

simple device which cuts a straight square mortise with an upright or horizontal
A twist bit is encased in the chisel which has open sides to clear the

motion.

and the action in feeding is simple and easy. " The vertical spindle
moulding machine is a great time saver, especially on curved work, but on
straight intersections, such as the mould of a wardrobe door, the corners have
to be finished by hand.
Among the later additions to wood-working machinery are the " dovetailing "
and "sand-papering" machines. For the former Messrs Wilson have a handy
apparatus which fixes to the "spindle" table. The dovetail cutter is inserted
into the top of the moulding spindle, and the apparatus can be easily fixed to
other makers' machines.
The sand
It is specially suitable for drawer work.
papering is done on a divided flat table, under which a large drum revolves
flush with the table top.
The sections of the table are easily moved back
Tenoning tools are now
when the paper has to be renewed on the drum.
made to fix to an ordinary hand mortiser, and the tendency is towards comIt
bination in machines, and there is one known as the " General Woodworker."
combines a band, circular, and fret saws, and mortising, boring, and moulding
machines.
It is of necessity a heavy machine, but such a combination economises the space considerably. Overhead fret saws are now the rule, an improvement which allows stuff of any width to be cut. Small masters usually
have all machine work done out at the mill, for it is only where there is a big
output that machinery on a large scale can be laid down, but electric power is
so convenient now that a small motor can be fixed to a saw bench or a lathe
with both economy and convenience.
Lathes are run by foot and power. A convenient size for a foot lathe
Cone
would be a 4 ft. 6 in. bed, to take a table leg between the centres.
bearings are used on the best lathes, and " gut " bands, with a four-speed
Special " chucks " are made for " oval " and
driving wheel, and cone pulley.
"square" turning, the latter being known as " thurmed." To thurm on a small
lathe the stuff must be fixed on a wheel, so that only one side of it meets the
chisel, but on a larger machine it is fixed to a " drum,'' and the larger the
drum the nearer to a square the turning will be, but it is never dead square
in section.
Chucks are made to turn various shapes, and fancy turning, twists,
&c, are done with " eccentric " chucks and cutters. Turning tools, chisels, and
gouges are sold in sets of eight, up to I in., or singly as required.
core,

MOULDINGS.
"

Mouldings are said to be " stuck " when worked on the solid " bolection
when rebated, and laid on the angle, and are consequently above the
" bedded " when laid in a groove
face frame
or " housed " and rebated
All
when glued in a rebate with a long and short shoulder to the frame.
these types are illustrated in the chapter on "Joints and their Applications."
Mouldings " project " as in a cornice above the eye, and " recede " in plinths,
but are generally both on a surbase or table part. Almost any section can be
worked with the " hollow and round " hand planes, or with a " scratch " (see
" Workshop Practice "), and where there is an undercut or recessed " member,"
;

X
w
H
<
5

<3

u
55

pq

w
O

o
z

H
W

MOULDINGS TURNING

Types of Mouldings.

273

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

274

mw/MW
j

'SSstjJ

vl

,w^;i;w',wBwwwTO\TOHwy

rORAASOF ASTRAGAL or BLAD5

DAR.REDDGDRfA0LD5.

Types of Mouldings.

MOULDINGS TURNING
as in the

275

French mouldings of the Rococo period, the machine can only work

the two faces or part of the recess, and the finishing must be done

by hand.
Mouldings are shown on pp. 273 and 274. The first two rows
Grecian and Roman, based on circle and elliptic lines, from which all

Types
are the

of

others are developed or varied.

In Gothic sections the hollows are deeply

Louis XIV. mouldings follow the classic details, as did the earlier
designers of Francis I. and Henry II. in what is known as " Renaissance " or
Historic French.
Louis XV. mouldings are peculiar for their " thumb " or
" nosy " projections and deep recesses, whilst those of the Louis XVI. period
are more severe, and of simpler classic.
On the second page, our own Elizabethan and Jacobean followed the classic models with reserve, and adapted them
recessed.

Chippendale cornices, &c, are based on the classic

and Hepplewhite introduced " enrichments " as a special feature in his cornices.
Sheraton was sparing with
mouldings, but where he did use them, in cornices or surbase, they were plainer
than those of his contemporaries. R. and J. Adam used refined and delicate
to the special position.

hollows, rounds, ogees, and astragal

details of a classic character.

is

The

curved, or

"

bulge," frieze of

Types of the

peculiar to that period of English work.

"

Queen Anne

astragal " or

"

bead

"

shown with some sections of barred door mouldings. When a series of

beads are worked together without a " quirk," they are called " reeds," whilst a

are

number of

rebates or steps of equal depth are

the bead has a square or

these names, with "

fillet,"

"

added
flute," and "

step
"

"

to

known
it

as "annulets."

becomes a

facia," are

architecture and vary in their applications.

all

it,

" torus,"

When
and

all

derived from the classic

Types of mouldings

suitable for

positions will be found associated with the special designs throughout the

book, and

it is

obvious that no hard and

fast line

can be drawn

in

of details which lend themselves to such an infinite variety of forms.

the design

CHAPTER

XIV.

PANELLING AND FITMENTS.

Preparation of Walls Plugging and Battening Fixing

Dados, Fireplaces, Skirting
Methods of
Boards, Ceilings, Cornices, &c. Fitment and Fireplace
Georgian Room,
Details of Cornice and other Moulds Gothic Framing, Tracery, Linen-fold
Panels Patent Mansfield Robinson Panelling Design
Colonial Adams
Room with Fitments Details of Elizabethan Types of Panelling, &c. Sheraton
Fireplace and Mantel Georgian Fireplace and Mantel, with Complete Details
Scale Drawing of Jacobean Room with Section of Cornice Frieze, Panel, and
Base Moulds, &c. Photograph of Room
Versailles Details of French

Early Types of

Grounds

for

Panelling

Tapestry Hangings

fixing for

for

full

for

at

Curved Panelling.

From

the fifteenth to the eighteenth centuries

it

was the custom

walls of rooms, galleries, halls, and corridors with oak panelling.

types the panels were small (see Plate XLV.), but

the size was increased.

in

to cover the

In the earlier

the seventeenth century

Sometimes only two-thirds of the height of the

wall

was covered, which allowed for a plaster frieze, but as a rule the panelling reached
to the ceiling, which was either of open beams or of decorative plasterwork.
Towards the end of the Georgian period, the custom declined, and wall-papers
or silk damask coverings were in vogue, a fashion which continued to the
latter part of the Victorian era.
The taste and fashion about that time
reverted again to fitted rooms, due, no doubt, in some measure to the demand
for a suitable environment and background for costly objects of art, the collecting
Modern fitments
of which had begun to assume considerable proportions.
are, therefore, a revival of early work, and many of them are copies of, or
based upon old examples.
Probably more has been done in the direction
of panelled libraries and dining-rooms, and the movement has extended to
fitted bedrooms.
To obtain a thorough knowledge of decorative interior
woodwork, the actual measuring and drawing of good examples in national
museums and mansions cannot be too strongly urged upon the student. A
design for a drawing-room with panelling and a fitted fireplace is shown on
Plate XLVII., photographed from a drawing which would be submitted to
a prospective customer.
The necessary procedure in executing such work is
described in the following pages, and the examples shown are those which
introduce the maximum amount of constructive and decorative detail consistent with limited space.
276

PANELLING AND FITMENTS

277

Taking Measurements, Templates, and necessary particulars before proceeding with the work, are described in Chapter X., and the setting out of rods
and preparation of working drawings are also dealt with there. Before dealing
with the general constructive details in fitments, we must first consider the preparation
of walls for receiving panelling, &c.

In most

when
dampness about

cases brick walls are the foundation, and

these have any suspicion of

them

and

coats

always with new buildings they

thoroughly covered with several

be

should

of a preparation consisting of varnish

bottoms and paint. Tar also is used as a damp

In addition to this,
preventive on brick walls.
the backs of the framing are also painted, which
prevents the damp penetrating into the wood,
causing it to swell and buckle.
All fixings
must necessarily be secret, and this can generally be effected by firmly screwing the framings
before fixing the mouldings, or by slot screwing
as described in Chapter IV., and further illustrated in

its

application to a fireplace (see

f.

HALF VIEW

SHEWING

1).

SLOT-

Brick walls must be well plugged at intervals

plugs are shaped as in

2,

f.

SCREW

FIXING-

The

to provide a secure holding for screws.

ON

FIREPLACE-

and the pockets are

cut with a strong, cold chisel, or "plugging"

chisel, in the

brickwork,

when

in flush with the surface.

the plug

is

the plug

When

is

driven

cut as shown,

forced into a screw-like position and

loose. The least effective form of

plug is the square taper type, which has a tendency to draw out of the hole when nailing or screwing. Concrete or cement facings
cover some walls, and fixings are usually obtained by plugging as described
" Grounds " are necessary when tapestry or damask panels are required.
above.

seldom works

These grounds are prepared from

by f

in.

yellow deal, and are also known as battens.

The exigencies of the work sometimes de-

mand

the grounds to be fixed flush with the

wall surface,

cutting or

"

and

this

chasing

"

is

receive the batten, which

in

flush (see

f.

3),

and

section to form a key.

accomplished by

away
is

the cement to
then cemented

slightly bevelled in

Before fixing door

linings, the battens are fixed round each

opening, and screwed to plugs in wall, the inside edge being bevelled to form
The architraves can then be put
a key for plaster (see f. next page).

together, either
position.

Wide

"

framed up

"

or " mitred and keyed

"

and

slot

screwed into

architraves necessitate the use of a wider ground, and this

is

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

278

framing" the grounds and fixing as illustrated in f. below. As

plugging and battening walls see opposite
for
tapestry above a dado, and also provides
grounds
shows
This sketch
page.
The
pilasters, mouldings, and cornice.
fixing
the
foundation
for
the necessary
with
plumb
line
and
indicated.
Testing
also
for
panelling
is
plugs
of
position
adjusted
inequalities
of
wall
line
being
groundworks,
the
for
level is necessary
by packing out the battens or removing superfluous wood with a plane.
Preparation of Ceilings for Panelling. Beam Ceilings, composed of
main beams, divided by smaller ones, do not require any special treatment.
In modern work their use is restricted to casing round the girders, the
modern successors in constructive building work to the old-fashioned oak or
chestnut beams which supported the floors. The joists provide an excellent
fixing, and the cased beams are pocket-screwed as illustrated in the section
The cross beams are shouldered over the
of main beam in f. 1, p. 280.
Mouldrebates, and wall plates fitted as shown.
ings complete the work, when scribed round all
obtained by

"

a further illustration of the process of

the openings.

Framed

|jpjl|[^

PUn

Ceilings consist of suitably designed

carved
or inlaid panels, the openings
with
framing,
accentuated
by
carved or decorated mouldbeing
could be given of
examples
Numerous
ings.

framed

ceilings

involving

special

not permit.

constructive

A description

features, but space

only of the preparation can be attempted.
will

frames are

made and

fixed

in

The

segments fixed to

the rafters, and richly carved bosses are generally

introduced as a decorative feature to conceal

framing with silvered

Venetian glass panels is an uncommon and
Long lengths of moulding
effective treatment.
are first fixed one way of the ceiling, and then
squares or rectangles are formed by scribing
The panels are
short lengths between them.
composed of four pieces of glass, resting upon rebates of moulding. The
corners are secured at the centre with a carved patera, and the scribed
joints of mouldings are concealed with bosses scribed over the mouldings and
screwed to the ceiling. Screws in work of this character arc very frequent,
and the ceiling must first be boarded with l-in. stuff, firmly screwed to the
the screw

Gilt

fixings.

rafters.

Fixing Fireplaces and Panelling. Slot screwing is essentially a fixer's

The process of fixing by this method
joint, and much used in interior work.
is as follows : First decide and mark the position of the job and screws for
this secret fixing, and scribe the work to fit the wall properly, then plug the
wall and turn screws into plugs until they project about in. from the surface.
Dab the head with moist lamp black, and place the job in position, pressing it
then bore a hole for head
against the heads, which will leave black marks
about in. lower than the mark, and cut the slot to receive same (see p. 277).
;

PANELLING AND FITMENTS

279

Replace the work, entering the heads in the prepared holes, and force it down,
completing the job by additional pocket screwing where possible.
Panelling is made and fixed in segments, which are so arranged as to
joint behind pilasters or mouldings.
When extra long lengths are required a

View showing Arrangement" of Grounds and Plugs

for Panelled

Room.

convenient position is decided upon, and the rails are tenoned dry and levelled
off.
The framing can then be separated and finally glued up when fixing.
Glueing up Framing in long lengths is accomplished by improvised
cramps composed of scantlings, with pieces fixed at either end folding wedges
are inserted at one end, and when tightened, effect the necessary pressure.
This
;

280

method

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

is

only resorted to where cramps with lengthening bars are not available.

All sections or pieces of framing should have the stiles carried right through,

and the bottom

made wider

rails are

The

to provide fixing for the skirting.

projecting horns on stiles are easily scribed to floor

and the open spaces under

the rail should be made up at intervals with blocks fixed to the wall.
For simple
skirting it is only necessary to make up a surface line of framing, but skirting of a
line,

CoR-IMIGE

MOLD

HflLF-SEGTON-OF

CROSS BEAMS

Sect ion -op

maim

be>=im

VIEW SHEWING-CONSTfcUCTION OF- BEAM CEILING-

PANELLED

SOFFIT

heavier type, tongued together as illustrated

pieces, seen in diagram.

trated in

f.

in

f.

The dado moulding can

2,

demands shouldered bracket

generally be arranged as

on opposite page, so concealing the pocket screwing used

illus-

at top

of framing.

Pelleting. Painted work does not demand the more expensive methods
Screws may be sunk into the surface of the
work, and the holes stopped by glueing pellets into them, see chapter on
of fixing as detailed above.

"

Workshop

Practice

"

for detailed description.

Although
tially

this

painted work,
resorted

fixtures,

is

essen-

device

to

in

it

is

for
also

polished

when other

methods are impracticable.

Building up and
Fixing Cornices. The

constructions illustrated

VIEW- SHEWING-

MAKING -UP BLOCKS

FOR.- SKIRTING-

on p. 285 show the arrangement of these deBuilt-up cornices

tails.
2.

are

used

in

decorative

in-

mostly

French

work, especially the "bracket" and "coved "varieties; a good example

first named is illustrated in the reproduction on Plate XLVI. of the
Marie Antoinette boudoir at Versailles. It is only possible here to illustrate

terior

of the

one particular type of French panelling which embraces some common constructional details.
The example shown on p. 294 is mortised and tenoned

PANELLING AND FITMENTS

together with long and short shouldered joints, the dotted line indicating the
rails before glueing up the work
the curves are then cut to the
inside line, and the rails are rebated to receive the mouldings.

shape of the

Carving

in

French work

is

a special feature, and

is

generally

cut out and glued on to the surface before being carved up.

Arrangement and Details of Panelling. The panelling

period has some peculiar and characteristic detail.
Thus in Gothic woodwork we find the " mason's mitre," described in Chapter IV. in Tudor and Elizabethan panelling,
of each

the bevelled or splayed bottom edge on the

rails, see photo

from Jacobean framing, which is
mitred all round the openings and with French work there is
" Sloper nose" moulding.
iThere is, indeed, an endless variety,
but space forbids a larger treatment of them.
Fig. 2 is a photograph of panelling of the Flenry VIII. period, sometimes
called " Holbein " panelling, and represents a type of work done at the commence-

on

this

page, as

distinct

!.

An Example

House at Waltham Abbey.

and Albert Museum.

of Panelling from an Old

Now

in the Victoria

ment of the English Renaissance, which was further developed in the Elizabethan
and Jacobean periods. The portcullis, Tudor rose, and heraldic centres to the

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

282

medallions, and the scroll-like ornament, are but steps to the decorative details

of a later date.

Marking

for

Fixing

Each section of panelling

is

marked

in alphabetical

order with a stencil or crayon to correspond with the similarly marked scale
an important detail
its position is then understood
drawings and designs

when

the fixing

is

conducted by labour engaged

locally.

Elizabethan and Jacobean Detail.

low

Both the above periods were marked by details in turning, strapwork,

Some are shown in the five panelled
relief carving, and mouldings.

Elizabethan and Jacobean Details.

framing on the opposite page, the centre panels being either rectangular,
The carved decoration shown
square, diamond, elliptic, or circular in shape.

PANELLING AND FITMENTS

!9p

283

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

284

the right-hand corner of the page, is termed " Nulling," and was much used
frieze rails of panelling and furniture.
Strapwork detail with rose centres

in
in

taken from pilasters, constantly recurs in modern Elizabethan work. The

semi-headed panel centre shown on p. 282 is another peculiar feature of this
period, either with strapwork pilaster or moulded and carved leaf decoration.
The split turning and mouldings shown are taken from Jacobean work. Reference to p. 288 will indicate additional detail of this period.

Fitment Colonial Georgian

is

(Plate xliv.).

The adaptation of Colonial Georgian interiors to drawing and bed rooms

an effective treatment when finished to a white colour, and also with silk wall

panels,

which contrast excellently with the rich tones of eighteenth-century

The finely curved mouldings with fretwork traceries, the fluted

furniture.

and turned decoration on corners and muntings, project

shadows upon the groundworks. On p. 285 the enlarged
method of building up a "coved" cornice; this is rebated
framing, and screwed through the beaded moulding covering
the small projection obtained by housing this moulding
additional advantage, and does not accentuate the union of

fascias, frieze overlays,

delicately graded
details

show the

over the panelled

the
is,

screw heads
as shown, an

panelling and cornice.

Blocks or brackets are fixed at intervals in the corner

which the top piece of the cove is screwed, and the top
member is then mitred round and fixed to the cornice. The lower part of
panelling or " dadoing " is made with long and short shoulder mortise and tenon
joints, with a moulding mitred round, see f. 3.
Muntings are grooved before
glueing up the frames, and the split turning "bead and reel" is glued in. The
enlarged detail shows the construction of top frames, the moulding forming a
rebate to receive the panes.
Fluted decoration is worked by machining 6-ft.
of the

room

to

Plate XLIV.

Inches
a.
1

ii

* o

e<

In li-H-rrt

Scale
TORTION OF- fl DRAWING-

OR BEDROOM FITMENT

for.-

ANDPLAM

elevation

IS.

15

Feet

EXECUTED- INMAHOGflNY
flND-ENAMELLED WHITE

The DESl&N-

ON COLONIALBASED

Part- plan- above

indicates floor.- une

GEORGIAN

See- also- enlarged

DETAILS

Design for Side of "Colonial Georgian" Room.

(Desig)ied by

Mr J.

Hooper.)

[To face fiage 284.

PANELLING AND FITMENTS

Section and detail
OF- DADO- MOULDING

'.CM

II
III

lllllllllll
Illlllllll

lllllllllll

'Illlllllll

285

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

286

lengths, about

wide, and cutting to the width required

ft.

with the corner blocks glued in corners

turning

this joints

up

flush

then mitred round the inside

" Ply " panels are an advantage with such constructive detail, and
the necessity of providing for panel shrinkage.
The skirting is

angles.

obviate

is

scribed and fixed to the horns of the framing, and finished

the

by

top moulding.

Patterns at the corners are turned

to the section shown, and carved to the drawing.
Practically all
fixing

n\n^

by screwing under the mouldings, and

mind when setting out such panelling.
Door framings to harmonise with the decorative scheme are
necessary in such work. With thick walls, panelled jamb linings
the

fixing

this

should be borne

effected

is

in

and "soffit" or head linings are necessary. The soffit is fixed in

position, being previously grooved to receive the jamb linings, see
view on p. 284. The fronts of linings are made flush with grounds,
and the architraves are fixed in the position shown in f. 1 and 2,
p.

284, covering the joints.

of the door and

ment

in

jamb

the corridor.

It is

not unusual to

make

the outside

linings correspond with a decorative treat-

The door

is

then faced up on one side with

a suitable wood.

Gothic Panelling, &c.

A portion of this type

of panelling is shown opposite, which is

and can easily be extended to any height.
Numerous antique examples about the country reach a height of
four or five panels.
The dado moulding is characteristic Gothic, as
also is the centre sunk moulding in muntings, stopped against the
rails.
The rounded inside corners of framing are also essentially
Gothic, and are a variation of the " mason's mitre," a very common
suitable for dadoing,

woodwork of this period.

necessary to mould the muntings
detail in

ings on stiles

the framing

and

is

Mansfield-

Robinson
Patent Panel-

such work, it is first

before glueing up, but all mould-

are stopped, and completed as

levelled off

Some masons'

Section of the

rails

To execute

this

is

shown

after

best effected with carving gouges.

mitres are finished exactly the

same

as a plain mitre,

with the mitre line quite straight.

Pinned tenons are also a pleasing
and strengthening feature of this work, similar to the Elizabethan.
Linen-fold or parchment panels are also illustrated, and they are
so-called because of their resemblance to these materials
folded.

There

is

a paucity of information pertaining to

when
these

panels, but the enlarged details of English and Flemish

shown herewith, are excellent examples, and provide a sufficient
basis for their production.
To execute them, the panels are first moulded
to the section shown, and carved to the design.
As the ultimate effect depends largely upon the moulded section, it will be found a good plan to make
a model of pine, moulded and carved until the required " feeling " is obtained, or
modelled up in clay, either being used as a pattern when executing the wooden
ling.

origin,

PANELLING AND FITMENTS

287

ui
.

>0

0^03
in?

zp
om

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Strapwork Turning and Recessed Detail

in

Elizabethan Work.

PANELLING AND FITMENTS

289

shown in the panelling, which, in old work, was

modern conditions demand more economical
methods, and it is usual to groove the rail to receive the fretted and carved
overlay.
The shapes are first cut upon a fret saw and " regulated " with files
mouldings are worked upon a " spindle " machine, and the tracery is completed
after being glued down to the groundwork.
This method of procedure would
also be followed in executing the traceried panel illustrated
an example of
French Gothic work. Skirtings are not usual in Gothic panelling, and the
fixing is best obtained by slot screwing to wall, a method previously dealt
with in this chapter. An additional fixing would also be obtained by screwing
through the rebate for dado moulding.
The method of rebating dado
moulding into the framing and using the top member to cover the joints is
also utilised in other periods of panelling, and is a very effective constructive
panels.

traceried rail

also

is

usually carved out of the solid, but

it economises material.
An alternate
moulding, fitting it into a rebate as shown.
used for angle connections of the above, and is fully described

detail, for in addition to

method

is

Scribing
in

is

to rebate

chapter on

"

hiding the fixing,

the dado

Workshop

Practice."

regarded as a fixture in a house, but a patent method which

allows of its easy removal with other furniture was shown in a model cottage at
the Franco-British Exhibition.
It is known as the " Mansfield Robinson
panelling, after its inventor and although specially designed for small houses,
Panelling

is

being largely used in banks and other public buildings. The diagram,
p. 286, shows a section of it, and illustrates the practical but simple method
of fixing. A, B, and C are pine battens rebated on each edge, and screwed
to a plugged wall.
The stiles are grooved to drop over the rebate, and to
it

is

tak e the tongue of the

rails

the panel,

groove formed by the rebate. The whole

by the top moulding as shown.

shown
is

built

A Sheraton Fireplace
The drawings on

darker,

also drops into

up from the

floor,

the

and fixed

(see next page).

the next page illustrate a typically

modern example of

a fireplace with Sheraton details which includes two china cupboards and a

mirror above the

shelf.
Various broad constructive principles are illustrated,
framed-up groundwork. A half-front elevation is shown of this,
and dotted lines indicate the connecting lines of the " facings." Two parts are
necessary, and after the groundwork of i^-in. pine is glued up, and centre space
cut, J-in. facings must be mitred and glued to the groundwork, projecting f in.
beyond the opening as a provision for the mirror. It should here be observed
This
that all fireplace work must be screwed from the back wherever possible.
An enlarged detail of the
applies both to the mouldings and the " facings."
cupboard illustrates this portion, and the construction is indicated in the
sectional details.
The ends run right through, with bottom lap dovetailed up,
and a false top slip dovetailed between. The outside ends fit over the back
Bottom
as indicated in the plan, and the cupboards are screwed from behind.

notably

in the

19

2 9o

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

.siHmHttiumiiiiuiimiiiiiiiiiiiHiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiinniiii

PANELLING AND FITMENTS

icjf

parts should be made, whenever possible, in the solid.

Marquetry panels are,
however, frequently used, necessitating the use of veneer, but this practice is
not recommended. The better plan is to introduce carving for decoration,

and although
it

is

this

is

a departure from the accepted detail of Sheraton work,

certainly justified

when

the action of adjacent heat.

the use of veneer

Methods of

bad construction, owing to

is

fixing are previously dealt with in

this chapter.

The sketch

alongside illustrates an ordinary

Half elevation of- a

mantel- in painted pine
.

"

mantel

"

Adam

of the

type, above which in the

eighteenth century a wall mirror, or to use its

present-day name "overmantel," was fixed, deli-

and gilt a conterm now applied

almost indiscriminately to the cheap "glass,"
"pillar," and "shelf" variety.
cately

carved

siderable

low

in

variation

relief

of the

A Georgian Fireplace
A
lines

modernised

fireplace,

(see next page).

designed on the

of those produced during the latter part

seventeenth century, is illustrated on

next page, showing some characteristic propor-

of the
tions

and

were

of

details.

The

fireplaces of this period

an architectural

character,

and

this

be seen in the consoles, pedimental shelf,

modillion cornice, and moulded details.
Some of the finest examples produced
during the latter half of the seventeenth century, and upon which the later
Georgian work was based, were carved by the famous Grinling Gibbons, who
worked for Sir Christopher Wren. His work is noted for its extremely natural
detail, and superb execution.
The carvings were chiefly executed in limewood,
a material which lent itself admirably to a vigorous yet delicate treatment of
strictly natural designs, such as birds, flowers, and cherubs, arranged in
swags, festoons, and pendants.
Fireplaces such as this example are used in
will

conjunction with

panelled

rounded by wide carved

with large panels in the framing, surmouldings. The construction of the lower part
interiors,

a groundwork is framed
together, and the pilasters and consoles are added, also the "tablet" at centre
with the "egg and tongue" moulding mitred round, and completed by the
of the fireplace

is

of a

straightforward

addition of marble breast linings or

character

" slips."

The upper

part embraces features

not previously described in this chapter, and reference to the enlarged scale
sectional view shows the side panels made with a wide top rail, tongued
panel, and loose moulding.
The wide rail at the top is made the full width,
with a narrow bottom rail as shown in figure, connecting the sides together

and thus forming a groundwork to receive the panelled breast. The breast
extends from the frieze moulding to shelf line, framed together, and panelled

292

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Design and Details of "Georgian" Fireplace and Mantel.

By Mr J. Hooper.

HUfa^
o

PANELLING AND FITMENTS

293

with a carved moulding glued to the frame with broken corners at the bottom.
Numerous devices are resorted to for attaching the moulded frame surrounding

an oil painting. The section shows the sketching

frame for canvas, screwed to a moulded frame
previously mitred and keyed together, inserted as
a whole from the front, and readily removed if
Another treatment is to screw the
required.
canvas frame on to the groundwork from the
front, with a rebated
frame made separately,
fitting over the picture and screwed to breast.

The painted decoration

of this style of work

ii

is

usually executed in white, contrasting admirably

with richly coloured pictures introduced into the

fireplace,

and

in

some

medallions attached

to

cases

the

in

the

panelling.

form

of

Old ex-

amples of this period were usually painted a cold green colour, relieved
intervals by the application of gold leaf on the details.

at

294

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Tvpes of French Panelling.

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PANELLING AND FITMENTS

"

block

"

saw, and cutting

down yV

2 95

This piece is removed and another

width corresponding to the
tongue in panelling
when cut to desired depth the fence is again removed,
and the core removed with a chisel. The sketch illustrates this process. The
bracket plates would be added after the framing
is fixed up, and completed by the addition of
" soffit," "dentil mouldings," and brackets.
Pilaspiece

in.

wider

in.

deep.

fixed, the in. difference in

is

ter pedestals

and

shafts

would follow next,

slot

screwed to the framing stiles, and the room

completed by scribing round the frieze mouldings.
An account of "scribing" and its application is
given in chapter on " Workshop Practice." The
" pinned " tenons are bored through close to the
shoulders after glueing the framing up, and level-

Cutting-groove
for.- framing

it off to the face surface.

An alternate and effective finish can also be
obtained by allowing them to project slightly beyond the surface, and in
rounding them off. This necessitates their use after the framing is finished off.

ling

CHAPTER

XV.

SPECIAL FURNITURE FOR SHOPS, OFFICES,

AND MUSEUMS.
Drawers and Automatic Locking Action Library Table with
Bedroom Furniture the King's Sanatorium with special Hygienic
Construction Museum Show Case on Stand with Dust-proof Joints Centre Case
Museum with Drawers Cash Desk with Friction Roller Drawers Office Cabinet
with Sliding Doors Office Stools and Chairs Enclosed Washstand Pedestal

Office Cabinets with Filing

Reading Racks

for

for

Print Stand for

Museums

with Practical Details of Construction, Movements, and

Fittings.

Introduction.

The

subject of this chapter

manner

is

a large one,

as the limited space will allow.

and

It is

is

dealt with in as practical a

therefore confined to such articles

of furniture as embrace special features in this class of work.

The examples

given in the following pages chiefly illustrate fittings for public, buildings, but
is a very necessary part of cabinetwork, and they are commonly used when dust-proof interiors are required.
It is
a debatable point whether an air-tight interior is best for the preservation of
books.
Some authorities favour the theory that a free access of air to the
bindings acts as a preservative, and even insist on air holes being bored at

the application of air-tight joints to furniture

But air-proof interiors are executed in cases

and valuable china. Dust-proof joints and their application to carcase work is dealt with in Chapter IV.
Various office fittings are
included in this chapter, involving special practice and actions.
American
roll-top desks are perhaps the most used of all office fittings, but they are
almost exclusively of American production, the only special constructive feature
being the tambour, illustrated in Chapter XII.
The drawing opposite illustrates a suite of furniture designed by Messrs
Heal & Son, for the King's Sanatorium at Midhurst. This class of furniture
is
specially designed for hospitals and sanatoria, and for hygienic reasons
mouldings are of the simplest character, projections which would hold dust
are avoided, and all corners and angles are rounded to facilitate cleansing.
Washstand tops and backs are of white opaque and clear glass respectively,
and are so arranged as to be easily detached for cleaning. These principles
are extended also to rooms and wards, the angles between floor, walls, and
frequent intervals in the backs.

for the display of plate

ceiling being rounded.

296

SPECIAL FURNITURE FOR SHOPS, OFFICES, AND MUSEUMS

297

298

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

An Office Cabinet
These drawings are introduced

to illustrate mechanical locking actions, a

special feature in office filing cabinets,

print cabinets, &c.

The

by means of a hinged

simplest

(see opposite).

which

is

also applied to writing tables,

method of locking drawers

in

dwarf cabinets

locked into the carcase top, or, as it is done in

many cases, at both ends. A sectional view of the pilaster and position of hinge
are shown below.
When the pilaster is opened, a free passage is allowed for
all drawers.
An enlarged detail of the locking apparatus is shown on this page, the sectional view opposite
showing its application to an office cabinet, and it acts
simultaneously on thirty drawers, each side of the centre
is

pilaster,

part.
One side of the cabinet is fitted with files with
a patent attachment, manufactured by the " Shannon "

Company, of Ropemaker Street, E.C., see diagrams, and

drawers are used in the other part. This, however, does
not affect the locking action, all plates being fixed to fit
the clips. Reference to the detail below shows the wooden
bar A fixed to the carcase top and bottom division and

grooved to receive an iron bar. This iron bar is slotted

and screwed to the wooden part so that it
can rise or fall freely to the full extent of the slots. To

at intervals,

OlflCRAM- U-LUS ttlmiMG A JULfl3TER.UOCK.ltNO

mcTiori

open the three tiers of drawers, the long drawer at bottom is drawn forward
about ] inch, and the A bar then falls and causes the clips to bear upon the
pins shown, thus raising the front part.
The drawers contained in the cabinet
are locked by pushing home the bottom drawer, and locking the same, thus
forcing the bar up and allowing the clips to drop.
If some drawers have been
inadvertently

left open, it is not necessary to re-open the bottom drawers, but

they should be pushed in, the plate coming into contact with the rounded front
of clip effecting a raising action, and the clip falls down into the hole provided

on the plates. A plate need not be made the whole length of the bottom
drawer back, three short pieces of iron about 2\ in. long, screwed under each
falling bar, being sufficient.

SPECIAL FURNITURE FOR SHOPS, OFFICES, AND MUSEUMS

Half- ELEVATION
FILE CABINET

Sectional viev/ SHEWING- IPCKING BAR.5

OF

)ETfllL-

OF

FLAPS

Scale of
INCHES
In In

11

299

h-rt-

An

Office Cabinet.

FEET

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

3 oo

A Library Table

(see opposite).

reading table suitable for a public museum or library is shown in the

It is arranged to seat four, but this capacity could be increased by
drawing.
extending the length, introducing the pedestals at intervals. It is built up in
three distinct sections, explained

in the order they take in building up the

work viz., (i) Supporting pedestals with cross bars; (2) Framed
up and lined table part (3) Cupboard with falling flaps carrying
horsed reading stands. The sectional view shows the construction
of framed-up pedestals, and also indicates the framed-up table
part.
Owing to its width and the necessity for a perfectly rigid
an
under-framing is constructed with moulded lining-up
top,
pieces mitred round the edges, and both frames are screwed
together.
The cross-bearers are cut into the pedestals and bolted
down, and the table part can then be fixed, and bolted as shown

The

in section.
in

construction of cupboard part

Fronts are panelled and a bottom frame

op

is

also indicated

the sectional view with a centre division between the flaps.

is

fixed with a set screw

and also to move

backwards and forwards in a slot (see sectional plan). The
enlarged detail shows the book support frame hinged up, with
the shape shown in sectional plan view.
A brass fitting is shown, forming a
rest for the book, which is folded up when not required for use.
The support
is made with the stiles continuing below the bottom rail with brass shoes as
shown above, fitting into a brass rack (see also enlarged detail).
Detail-

to the flap, allowing

the brass
SHOE

it

to

rotate

if

required,

A Museum Case
The drawings

illustrate

jewellery and objects of

rails as

part

is

shown

in plan,

made with

employed

art.

glass

The

case

(see p.

303).

upon a stand

table part

is

for

the display of

of simple construction, with

the legs being of an octagonal shape.

The

sloping top

a removable frame for access to the case, and the construction

shown

This frame is secured at both

bead at bottom acting as
an air-proof joint, and also keying the frame to the case at the bottom.
The top framing is tenoned into the surface moulding, and the rebate formed
A loose bottom is
by mitreing a rebated piece between the uprights.
shown lined with suitable material, and an inner stand is made by glueing
the columns into the shelf, fitting into the bottom with f in. turned pins
underneath a square base (see enlarged detail of columns). This type of
showcase is not so fragile as the circular bar kind, and the plate glass can
sides

is

with special

be beaded

in

as

in

the enlarged details.

locks

shown

(see

in

section),

the section.

the dust

SPECIAL FURNITURE FOR SHOPS, OFFICES, AND MUSEUMS

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

ioz

A Museum Floor Case

This double-fronted case is intended
upper cases, the bottom part being utilised
are fixed

upon the sloping

top,

are necessary with certain

strong
case

light.

(2)

This case

The

is

xlviil).
specimens

for the display of

for storage purposes.

made

in

in

the

Hinged covers

and are raised when viewing the specimens

natural

these

history specimens, as a protection from a

three distinct parts:

sloping part above drawers

The

(Plate

(3)

The main

(i)

The narrow

top

part or bottom case

bottom case shows the method of

framing up inside and outside ends. Their attachment to the main carcase is
effected by screwing under the pilasters, the drawer rails are slip dovetailed into
the ends, and runners grooved and fixed previously, thus making inner carcases
fixed between the outside framing.
A view under the top case A in plan shows
the end frames connected to wide stiles
centre stiles are also introduced, and
top and bottom rails are tenoned between.
The skirting is mitred round, and
with drawers.

sectional plan through

projects sufficiently to receive the pilaster bases.

a wide top and bottom

rail is

as an additional brace,

The

After fixing the inside carcases,

dovetailed and screwed

down

(see plan), thus serving

and strengthening the whole carcase.

construction of the sloping case

is

shown

in

enlarged

end frames being rebated to receive glass. The

bottom rail is tenoned between the short stiles, the upright
>
^^*is tenoned
down to bottom rail, and the sloping
r O rails
Pl<IS(WM -SHEWING.
tenoned
between
short
stiles
and
centre
upright.
Solid
o^^n^Jf^n'ons'
stuff must be used for the front rails, and their connection
with end frames is illustrated in enlarged detail, a sectional plan, from which it
will be seen that a short stub tenon is used, and the front part mitred.
Centre
division rails divide the sloping case into four parts which are dovetailed between
A framed-up bottom is used, and this should be rebated into the
the rails.
framing as shown in the enlarged detail. Part sectional plan of case A shows a
details, the

'

The
rail dovetailed down to receive the hingeing piece for the glazed top.
frames are made in four parts meeting upon the division rail, which has the
tongued piece glued on in order to render the joints air-proof; the connection
above the front rail is also shown with dust bead attached. The thumb moulding is mitred round two sides of each frame only, and upon the ends of hingeing
The lower doors are hinged with a dust-proof shutting
piece fixed at the centre.
"
joint, and it is advisable, though not indispensable in this case, to use a " hook
These are worked with special
or S joint for meeting stiles of doors (see above).
planes,

and necessitate the use of double tenons

by dotted lines in diagram.

in

making the doors

they are

indicated

A Cash Desk

(Plate xlix.).

This cash desk is designed to meet general requirements in a business

with pedestals, sloping desk, and cash drawer.
Similar desks and

house,

ENC

CEr

Plate XLVI1I.

A Centre

Floor Case ior Museums.

[To face f age 302

SPECIAL FURNITURE FOR SHOPS, OFFICES, AND MUSEUMS

303

3o 4

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

counters are suitable for banks and offices, differences occurring only in the
arrangement and accommodation. The main idea is to have pedestals containing
a requisite storage capacity for books, &c, with sloping desk and counter top
the general and subsidiary counters butting
supports upon the centre cupboard
The sectional view shows construction of panelled framing, and
against the desk.
the stiles should be allowed to run right through to the floor it is unnecessary to
carry the bottom rail full width, as, for example, when the fixing for skirting is
obtained on the stiles. The pedestals should be made quite separately, as shown
the centre cupboard is constructed by
in plans, and screwed to the panelling
making a frame with centre munting (see back elevation), doors are fitted to the
openings, and when the pedestals are in position, the framing is screwed and
blocked to the main pedestals. The sloping desk and cash drawer are also put
together in one carcase, and fitted and fixed above the cupboard. The whole job,
when fitted and set true, is completed by the addition of a counter top, framed as
shown below. The inside edge is left square to receive the lift-up desk lid, and
A view of
side rails are necessary with this to allow the lid to clear mouldings.
;

is shown, with a brass friction roller fixed towards the back.

This runs upon brass plates let flush into the drawer runners, and a plate is also
let into the drawer with a corresponding roller fixed on the runner at the front.
This prevents the wearing away of the drawer fittings, which, otherwise, in a
short time would be quite an appreciable amount, and prevent smooth running.
The grill is fixed to the top of the cash desk by bolts through the pillars screwed
Brass terminals are screwed
into the surface plates, which are let into the top.
in the top rail to hide the fixing, and the wooden collar at bottom also prevents
S brackets are necessary to ensure rigidity in
the surface plate from showing.
any length of grill above 4 ft. An alternate method of fixing the grill is to bolt
from underneath the top into holes previously drilled and tapped in the standards, or with a screw brazed into the standard and bolted from underneath.
The overhang of the cash desk top is about 5 in., and prevents the framing
being bruised and kicked. The general counter front is framed together with
posts and cross bearers supporting the top, but arrangements at the back are, of

the cash drawer

course, decided

by the nature of the

or cupboards.

Where drawers

business, whether

by

racks, shelves, drawers,

are introduced, the sides should not be less than

X
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?
^

SPECIAL FURNITURE FOR SHOPS, OFFICES, AND MUSEUMS

f

in.

thick

Bottoms are grooved

305

and are
freedom for

into the ends as with cash drawers,

strengthened by glueing blocks to the sides only

the bottoms when shrinking'.

An Office Cabinet

this will allow

(see next page).

has for its main feature a series of rising flaps

which has the advantage of presenting a level front when any
of the compartments are opened.
The bottom part is encased by sliding doors,
and the interior is divided up for ledgers as required (see plan next page and f. 4
on this page). Sliding tops are introduced under the main top, a useful provision

This type of

office fitment

sliding into grooves,

FIG. 5.

ARRANGEMENT- OF
SLIDING -OO-ORlS

Brass- stops
for. flaps

and books when referring to the contents of the cabinet. The actual
work does not depart from usual procedure and the method of conThe working detail in 2
4.
nection between the two top carcases is shown in
shows the division edges grooved to receive a moulding, which, when glued in
position, makes a rebate to receive the flaps when down. The horizontal divisions
must be set back as shown in f. 1, and the moulded and rebated fronts are tongued
This necessias shown before slip dovetailing between the vertical divisions.
divisions
are also
All vertical
2.
tates a butt joint in front elevation shown in
method
of
The
in
1.
grooved to receive the flap, the detail of which is shown
for papers

carcase

f.

f.

f.

f.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

3 o6

flRQNT

EInd-Vieiw

VlELW

INCHEJ.
I

II 111

S
Plan -THRO- BOTTOM
C(qR.CA5E

An Office

Cabinet.

Feet

SPECIAL FURNITURE FOR SHOPS, OFFICES, AND MUSEUMS

307

stopping them against the moulded facings is also illustrated. Fig. 1 on page
opposite shows the grooved pilaster and end, the dotted line indicating groove
and the rebate provided for the flap. As previously mentioned, the horizontal
divisions are fixed between the vertical divisions first with short moulded lengths
grooved into the carcase fitted between them mitre joints could be used but
a more economical way is to scribe the pieces between.
The flaps are flush at
the back, and are mortised and tenoned together with the panel inserted previous
to glueing up.
Ordinary butt-joint hinges are used for the flap joints, and small
catches are sunk into the bottom edge.

Enclosed Washstands

(see p. 308).

These enclosed washstands are used in private offices, &c, where washing
accommodation is required in a limited space.
The first type illustrated

Elevations and Sectional View of an Office Chair.

has the washstand top dovetail housed between the ends, with the bottom
lap dovetailed to the carcase ends.
A wide front rail is grooved between
the ends to enclose the cistern, and a hingeing strip and top are fixed

above

for access to

slip dovetailed

it.

The

sloping top

between the ends.

and the cubical contents of

pan placed in the cupboard.

this

is

also attached to a hingeing strip

lead cistern

should
sectional

fits into the space provided,

equal the contents of water-waste

view shows a method of fixing

3 o8

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Types ok Enclosed Washstands.

SPECIAL FURNITURE FOR SHOPS, OFFICES, AND MUSEUMS

309

the tap and also the bowl cut into the top.
Fillets are screwed to the shelf
to ensure the water-waste pan fitting directly under the plug.
Space is provided in the cupboard at bottom for towels and other accessories.

The second type illustrated is for uses similar to the above but the supply
of water must be provided for by a separate receptacle in the cupboard.
basin, soap and brush dishes are sunk flush into the top with the plug and
water-waste pan as in previous example. A light-moulded frame containing a

looking glass

is

screwed to the underneath of the

Details of
if desired,

to secure

Museum

lift-up top.

This can be hinged,

Print Stand (see next page).

with a small brass rack for tilting it, with a cabin hook or button
when top is closed. Brass knuckle joint stays are used for sup-

it

porting the top, the fixing of which

is

described

An Office Chair

in

chapter on

(see p.

"

Brasswork."

307).

The drawings represent in elevations and section an office chair with

upholstered seat and back rail.
Its use demands strength rather than good
appearance, and no decoration is introduced. American leather is used for
the seat and back with an edging of nails.

Angle blocks are keyed and screwed

to the rails in the corners to strengthen the frame.

Contrary to the general

rule in chair work, the seat does not diminish towards the back.

are similar to the chair, but are without the back.

Office stools

3io

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Revolving Print Stand for Museums.

SPECIAL FURNITURE FOR SHOPS, OFFICES,

A Museum
This

Print Stand

AND MUSEUMS

311

(see opposite).

designed to exhibit collections of drawings,

with twenty-four pairs of double frames
showing forty-eight faces.
These frames are hinged and fold somewhat in
the form of a book.
With slight alteration this stand can be made shaped to
half the plan and fixed to a wall.
The bottom pedestal, octagonal in shape, is
is

pedestal

stand

embroideries, or prints, and

made

is

fitted

as illustrated in detail (see sketch, p. 309),

tongued together at the angles with skirting

mitred round
strong bearers are dovetailed
across the pedestal to support the upper part
and top. The detail on opposite page shows the
moulded base a softwood groundwork is made
to octagonal shape, and the moulding stuff is
jointed round the splayed faces, the grain running from top to bottom, and then turned to
the section.
The upper part is jointed as a
cylinder or drum glued into the bottom board,
and the top is rebated and screwed. A carved crested locking piece projects
beyond the cylinder, and the frames are thereby secured and cannot be taken
off.
The frames are connected in pairs back to back with pianoforte hinges
on the outside edges. One method of securing the frames is to fix the plates
shown above on each frame, and the pin passing through both centres forms an
Rounded dowels are inserted between the closing stiles of the
effective lock.
frames, and ensure them closing into the correct position.
The frame fittings
the centre and bottom set being made to fix
are of gun-metal with steel pins

si

with surface plates

are sunk flush

let into

the edge.

The

top plates, as in the pin plates above,

and screwed into the cylinder as

illustrated.

CHAPTER

XVI.

CHAIRMAKING.
Introduction of Chairs and Stools Primitive Examples Identification of
Necessity of Studying Historic Examples Diagrams showing Characteristics
of Period Chairs Chronological Chart giving Names, Periods, Dates, Characteristics,

Classification

Chairs

and General Proportions of Chairs and Seats in Various Styles, including " Cavalier,"
"Charles II. High Back," "Spoon Backs," "Grandfather," "Riband," "Wheatsheaf," "Lattice,"
"Heart," "Shield," "Oval," "Ladder Back," "Stuff-over
Chairs,"
"Adjustable Settees,"
"Bed," "Drawing," and "Dining" Room

Workshop

Practice Subdivision of Industry Special Tools

Frame Saws, Leg Vice, Routers, Scraper Spokeshaves,
Special Cramps, Iron Band Cramps
Use of same Templates, Material for
Shaping and Moulding Legs and Arms Connecting Segments Bevelled Mortising
Use of Saddle Drawing and Dining Room Chairs, Designs for^Methods of
Construction Pierced Splads
Cabriole Leg Detail, Construction of Bracing Chair
&c.

Chairs,

used

in

Chair Work,

Frames, Alternate Types

Seat for Settle

Loose

Loose
General

Seats in Dining Chairs, Construction of

Stuff-over Arm-Chair Arrangement of Rails

for

Upholstery

same Measured Drawing and Detail of Child's Chair Chesterfield

Elevations and Sectional Views Enlarged Detail of Wood and Iron Ratchet
Movements Construction of Framing Knole Settees William and Mary Arm
Chair Development from Earlier Styles Methods and Process Involved
Inclined Legs Arrangement
Upholstery Curved Arms, Method of Working,
Moulding same Finishing a Scroll Terminal Measured Drawings and Details
Rules

for

Settee

in

for

of a Hall Seat.

Introduction.

The

craft of

chairmaking, embracing, as

and numerous small and arm

chairs,

practised as a

It

distinct

craft.

is

is

it

now

does, settees, couches, divans,

most comprehensive, and

is

usually

divided into sections, such as stuff-over

frame work, arm and small chairs. Many cabinet shops, however, still require
the cabinetmaker to be skilled also in chair work, which is then practically
confined to the reproduction of old examples, seats, and framing, occurring
in domestic and ship fitments.
The history of chairs dates back to the earliest times, but it was not until
To enuthe fifteenth century that they became an accepted type of furniture.
merate all the kinds of chairs and seats, ranging from the rude forms of primitive

CHAIRMAKING
Queen Anne

James H

3i3

JflCe>E/Vi

"HIGH SftCK'

Hepplewhite

Hepplewhite
Shield"'

LATTICE

Types of Chair Backs.

'OVAL"

3 4

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

and chairs of the present date, and even
would be a long task, but the chronological

stools to the elaborate settees, divans,

including thrones and chairs of

state,

given in this chapter (Plate L.) may be consulted for general reference.
To recognise the development of form and
Identification of Chairs.
examples is, of course, necessary, and
historic
of
study
chairs,
a
detail in

list

it

should

prove a rich source of information

as

to

respective styles.

their

Certain typical shapes, generally the outcome of changing conditions in social

The diagrams
life, custom, or dress, are always characteristic of the period.

given on
be found

mining

some

of

assistance

will

313

p.

deter-

in

and

dates

styles of chairs pro-

duced under the best

masters.

The Jacobean
back

chair

with

lunette -shaped
rail

top

and acorn pen-

dant is typical of
Frethat period.
backs
quently the
were of solid stuff
carved with semicircular headed panels,
and also with spindles
'

or

as

pillars

trated.

illus-

James

II.

high back chairs with

cane seats and backs
are a further develop-

ment of Charles
chairs, a period

II.

which

marks the introduction

of

scroll

form

carvings and twisted

Cutting Sweep on Bench,

turnings.

Anne
the

Queen

chairs

most

and

the back.
This is
beauty and proportion, and is essentially
Queen Anne or Georgian types have also been aptly
an English style.
described as "of great purity." Chippendale brought about the next important development in chairs, and the evolution of the Queen Anne splad
The introduction of mahogany proved
is clearly shown
in his examples.
superior to those woods previously used, and elaborate carved "open work
Chippendale chairs always have
splads " (see riband back) were possible.
part
connected to the seat rail, part of which is visible
the splad or centre
settees

have

period

for

"centre

chairs

of

splads

"

singular

in

prolific

Plate

A Chronological Chart

Class.

giving Names, Periods, Dates, General Characteristics, and Proportions of Chairs and Seats in Various Styles.

L.

CHAIRMAKING

3'5

above the seat (see also vvheatsheaf pattern). Hepplewhite introduced curved
backs of heart, shield, and oval forms, with tapering and spade toe legs.
Sheraton reverted to a style of design more chaste and refined than the
ornate types of Chippendale, and, incidentally, more suitable for the satin-

1.

wood he
outline,
rail

chiefly

worked

and there

is

Shaping Chair Leg

Many

upon.

nearly always

of the back, placed about 2

in.

in

Chair Vice.

of

his

chairs

a distinguishing

are

feature

above the seat (see

" lyre "

rectangular
in

the

and

in

bottom

" lattice ").

Practice of Chair Work.

Chairmaking, practised as a separate craft, requires long experience to
position generally accomplished by close specialisation in

become an adept, a

particular branches.
The best chair work was
undoubtedly executed during the eighteenth
century, and with but slight modification and
additions, the examples made during that period

decide present-day proportions, as well as being

the basis of modern chair-work design.

2.

Scraper Spokeshave.

For

economic reasons, chiefly speedy production, division of branches in chairmaking has been brought about, although the principles and practice of each

3 i6

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

branch vary but

The
Tools, appliances, and methods are general.
chairmaker's kit are frame saws of various sizes used
The saw is
straight or curved arms, legs, and segments.

slightly.

special tools required in a

for ripping out stuff,

on the bench, and manipulating it as shown

arms and sweeps
on p. 314. A
Loose
and
moulding.
filing,
shaping,
of
processes
during
the
(see p. 315)
wooden jaws are fitted over the vice heads to

worked by fixing the material

leg vice

is

flat

also necessary for holding curved

prevent the iron surface bruising the stuff

Routers

(f.

shapes for
scratching mouldings round framing arms, &c,
with a variety of spokeshaves and scraper spokeshaves (see f. 2, p. 315), are important items of
opposite).

With

equipment.

mentioned

WOODEht HOR.MS.
&OLTED -TO -IRON

tool

various

of

efficient

will

act

mastery, this

last-

quicker and cleaner

It consists of a piece of

than the ordinary type.

thin steel, bevelled and sharpened with a scraper
edge, fixed between two pieces of stuff, secured

by screwing, an escapement being cut as shown

Special
in diagram to dispose of the shavings.
cramps are also necessary in chair work, types of
which are illustrated in f. 1, 2, 3, with the jaws

made
e.g.,

longer than the cabinetmaker's patterns,

an iron tee cramp and wooden cramps.

use of a chairmaker's cramp is obvious in

cramping curved work where the additional jaw

The

space allows the cramp to

fit

over curved

rails.

Band cramps are also illustrated. Fig. 1 alongside is used for cramping oval or circular seats,
and consists of a flexible iron band fixed on two
wooden horns, which, when cramped together as
shown, effects an equal distribution of pressure
round the seat. Another pattern is shown in
f. 2, a more simple kind, used only for horseshoe-

shaped

seats.

In this case cramping blocks are

fixed to an iron board and a stout wooden bar

is

placed at the front, the extra length serving

Both cramps
up.
shown in diagram,
and the pressure is applied by screwing them
An Interchangeable
A more expensive and
IJand Cramp.
up simultaneously.
1, the wooden
effective band cramp is shown in
the screws
seat,
fit
size
any
and
made
to
which
is
interchangeable
bar of
handle.
turning
the
applied
by
this
pressure
piece and
being bored through
in
feature
important
templates,
an
method
of
making
The
Templates.
chair
as
in
good
holds
procedure
this
Chapter
X.
described
in
chair work, is
in furniture making, but cardboard templates are the general rule, wooden
as a grip

when cramping

are required

for

this,

as

f.

templates only being used for repetition work.

CHAIRMAKING

Shaping and Moulding. The shaping

of frames for stuff-over work

is

straightfor-

more complex and highly

finished forms such as Chippendale and
Sheraton arm - chairs in hardwood it is
more difficult in character, and, generally
speaking, can only be successfully accomplished by experimenting with softwood

ward, but

the

in

models or when copied from a given pattern.

The preliminary processes of marking and
cutting out the stuff is proceeded with, the
segments are roughly shaped, then dowelled
or mortised together and carefully spokeshaved and fixed to obtain the necessary
" feeling."
A working drawing cannot adequately show this, and the senses of sight and
touch must be relied upon.

Connecting

Segments.

Particular

shapes or curves of segments, with the direction of grain, determines the best method

I.

Mortising Leg on Saddle.

of fixing together.

Dowelling

effec-

is

METHOD OF-TUR.NIING
1NCLMNED-LE.G5

tivewhere the piece

is

used

"

also
"

in

most

butt

Although MARKING

dowelling
the

Dowel

are

"

joints."

PIECE

straight-

fairly

grained.

screws

"MAKING UP'

has

al-

-OUT

CURVED ARMS

superseded
old-fashioned

but better method

of

mortising

tenoning
frames

and
the

4.

Showing

Cutter,

Position of

Workim

Arm.

together,

largely used in better class work

is
where great strength and trueness are required.
Bevelled and curved work where mortised is
supported in a saddle (see f. i above), which

the latter

provides

firm

"bed" when conducting

this

operation.

5.

A William and Mary

The

construction employed in this type

View showing Template.

Arm-Chair.

is

straightforward, the chair parts

being either mortised and tenoned or dowelled together.

A sectional

view of the

3i8

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

CHAIR. MAKING
rail

3*9

shows the rebate to receive the covering, finished with rail borders. Designs
and the transitory periods frequently show the back legs sloping from

in this

the seat upwards, occasionally at a very decided angle.

If this is sufficient to

weaken the leg the top part should be made separately with a strong i-in. dowel
into the bottom part.
This type of leg occurs also in work of a later period,
and the turning is executed by cramping a block at one end to receive the lathe
pivot, see
i, p. 317, reversing the process to complete the bottom portion.
The sectional plan shows vertical rails mortised between the horizontal rails and
rebated for upholstery. Rebates are carried right through the vertical rails, and
the horizontals are stop-rebated to complete the rectangle. The workshop
practice involved in executing the arms is also frequently met with in chair
work. Two templates are required for marking out, shaped to elevation and plan
respectively
they are applied to material as shown in f. 3, when the outline is
pencilled and the arm band-sawn to shape.
After cutting, the arms should be
" regulated " with files before proceeding to scratch the mouldings.
Fig. 4 shows
a section of the moulded arm, and, as indicated in plan, the section is smaller at the
back.
Scratching the moulding must therefore proceed in stages. The first step
f.

1.

View showing Construction

2.

Loose Seat

for a

Queen Anne

Settee,

with Dowelled Joints.

is

y\

to prepare a piece of
in.

wood

to the true side view of the arm, with the

back end

thicker than front, this measure representing the difference in the size of

fix this making-up piece temporarily to one side

bead at front and back
of the arm and work a half section as shown in f. 5, repeat with the other side of
arm and complete the section as indicated by working V shape for bead from
top side, finishing the section with spokeshave and scraper. The scroll part
;

at the front

is

finished with carving gouges.

Drawing and Dining Room Chairs.

reference to the chronological chart in this chapter gives details of pro-

portions and sizes of the above-named chairs in various periods.

A drawing-room

strapwork splad tenoned between the top and seat rails.

The piercing should be executed after glueing up. The section is illustrated in
enlarged detail, the straight portions being worked on the face side with a scratch
stock, and the back is rounded with rasps and files. An interesting detail is shown
on the plan of the seat. It will be seen from the elevation that the moulded
chair

is

illustrated with a

3 2o

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Section

OF -FRPNT
AND SIDE
R.AILS

t n-T

SlDEVIEW

VIEW

'R.ONT-

6"

is.
I

3"
I

1-1-

3 FLET

INCHES- SCALE
FOR. ELEVATIONS

CARVED
NULLING

5IDE-VIEW

Front View

Drawing and Dining Room Chairs.

CHAIRMAKING

321

legs project slightly above the rails, and an effective finish is obtained by making
the beads converge to the centre of the leg in the form of a leaf carved rather
flatter than the bead moulding.
The Chippendale dining-chair also has the

splad, " banister," or " baluster," as

it is variously called, tenoned

into crossor "slats," which are fretted and carved after glueing up.
The cabriole
leg detail in this chair embodies the usual constructive features of this design,

rails

and

cut from 3-in.

stuff, with rails tenoned between the knee parts, the scrollunder the knees being added in the form of a small bracket,
tenoned into the legs, and glued to the rails after the frame is glued. These are
then levelled down to the leg profiles and carved up. Two methods of " bracing "
a chair frame are shown in plan, the front braces are " cogged " into the rails and
is

like terminations

Queen Anne

Settee.

screwed, whereas the back types are planed to

is

the angle, then glued and

fit

these materially strengthen the frame and ensure rigidity, which

very necessary in frames with loose seats. The plan also shows the knee part

firmly screwed

Loose seats are also an especial feature

of leg cut to coincide with rebated rails.
of dining-room chairs of the Chippendale period, and are occasionally used in
settees of the Queen Anne period (see p. 319).
Fig. 1 (p. 319) represents a view of
a loose seat for a dining-chair, made from -in. birch dowelled together. Fig. 2,

the plan of seat for the

settee

mentioned above

webbing is fixed to the

it.
These loose frames
the covering materials which
;

underside, and the stuffing of horsehair, &c, laid above

should be

made smaller than

are tacked to the underside

the rebate to allow for

I

in. is

the usual allowance.

322

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

SCALE FC

ELEVATION

FRPNT AND- PART

SECTIONAL ELEVATION OF iA SMALL

5ECTIOMAL

ELEVATION

SIDE

STUFF OVEB-flCM

CHAIE

frT^

fy

M
ARM-OF-CHILDS-

CHAR- DRAWN
ONE -THIED-FULL
SIZE.

Stuff-ovep Chair and Child's High Chair.

CHAIRMAKING

A Stuff-over Chair

323

(see opposite).

This class of work is so called from the upholstery almost completely

covering the framings, another example of which is illustrated in the Chesterfield

The lines of the frame are determined by the design, and

majority of cases, closely follow it. The bottom rails of the frame are

settee in this chapter.

in the

by if

and to these are fixed the webbings and also the finished materials
the second rail serves as a fixing for the wing or arm
coverings and also for the back covering (see dotted lines in side elevation). This
arrangement of rails holds good in all stuff-over work. The wood used for chair
frames is generally birch, this having superseded the use of beech, which was
particularly susceptible to attack by worms and dry-rot.
Dowelling is used in
fitting up the frame illustrated and for repeat work, zinc templates for marking are
an advantage, as described in " Dowelling " (Workshop Practice and Construction).
When glued up, the frames are levelled by planing and spokeshaving, slightly
rounding all edges, and end grains should be well rubbed with thin glue, which
acts as a strengthening agent, and prevents the wood splintering when tacking
on the covers. The sketch (p. 321) represents a Queen Anne settee with loose
seat, the construction of which is described on p. 321.
The framing is rebated
to receive this seat, and the construction of the curved part is best effected by
building up in segments and veneering the surface, forking the legs up into the
This type
frame, the moulding being glued into a rebate to receive the seat.
of frame is, however, frequently made with rails cut from the solid and dowelled
up to the legs.
A measured drawing of a child's chair is also shown opposite, with enlarged
detail of back, the dotted lines representing shoulder lines on the pierced splad,
which is tenoned into the rails. This chair is made in two parts with a bead
between the joints under the seat which is pocket screwed from underneath.
2

in.,

of seat (see elevations)

A Chesterfield Settee (see

next page).

p. 324 deal with mechanical features of Chesterfield and

and also further illustrate the general constructive principles of
The bed or
stuff-over framework previously dealt with in a Sheraton arm-chair.
seat frame is illustrated in plan, the inside end rails being necessary to secure
the upholstery work, and leave a space at each end for the mechanical actions (see

The drawings on

Knole

settees,

also dotted line indicating upholstery in sectional elevation).

A perspective sketch

shows the construction of each corner, the bracket F being dowelled and screwed
Reference to the
to the framing at each end with the rail G butted in between.
enlarged detail of the mechanical action on the next page will more clearly show
the necessity for this bracket, which,
for the drop end when lowered to its
it

it

will

full

has the greatest strain exerted upon

be observed, provides a firm seating

when used in this position

extent, and
it.

The wooden

action

is

illustrated

324

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

Chesterfield Settee.

CHAIRMAKING

325

and is operated by pulling the cord, thus releasing the ratchet and
allowing the end to drop. The rail J is mortised between the ratchets, and
when the cord is arranged, as shown, round the rails and drawn upwards, it

opposite,

draws the ratchet from

its position on the rail.

The spring is attached to two
pressing against the circular rod, as shown, and pulls the ratchet close to
the rail again when the cord is released.
Rail K rests upon the ratchet ends,
and acts as a strengthening agent when the end is

rails

lowered, in addition to providing the requisite fixing

for the spring.
part elevation is shown of the back

frame, which

not shown in

dowelled together with a centre rail

the drawing, the outline in this case

is

closely following

The

distance

the

finished

of

line

upholstery.

between the ends can be extended

according to requirements

the usual practice

dispensing with the centre

leg

is

to

stretcher illustrated, fixed across the

has the added advantage

in

when

use the iron

rails,

and

this

use of following

its

the under line of the stuffing.

" Knole " settees closely follow the above type in
shape and construction, an especial feature being the
wide top rail on the frame, which acts as a seating
for the springs
the back also has this wide rail and
does not curve. The detail on this page illustrates
" Ayer's " patent fitting for these settees, operated
by pressing the thumb piece, and raising or lowering
when the pressure on it is removed the spring acting
upon a clip effects a stop on the ratchet. This mechanical action is suitable
for both types of settee, as is also the wooden action described above, but the
iron attachment has obvious advantages, involving, as it does, a simplification of
construction, and also the omission of a perishable cord.
;

The chart on Plate L. has been drawn up as a reference to the general

shapes and dimensions of the various types of chairs. The sizes have been
measured from actual examples, but they may vary in different designs and
according to the special use for which a chair has been made.

CHAPTER

XVII.

ENGLISH, FOREIGN, AND COLONIAL WOODS.

Botanical Divisions
Growth and Structure Hard and Soft Woods Section of
Tree and Names of Parts Defects and Diseases Conversion, Seasoning, Shrinkage
and Warpage Commercial Sizes and Terms Detailed Description of Woods
Geographical Distribution
Ports of Shipment
Market Prices and
Sizes of Logs
Uses Special Section on Colonial Timbers.

Trees

CLOSE knowledge of timber

points of view.
in construction,

He

should

and forethought.

to appreciate

Added

to the best advantage,

its

to use

it

for the best results

beauties in colour and figure for

know how to buy and convert

wood for its special purpose with care
can only come with experience in handling the wood

and

All this

important to the cabinetmaker from two

know how and where

and be able

decorative purposes.

is

to this he should

select his

but the value of such practical knowledge is increased if backed up by a

close study of the growth and structure of timber in the living tree.
It would
itself,

not be possible here to refer at any great length to this important side of the
question, but to note only the essentials as they apply in a general or particular

way.

Trees which produce timber are classed by the botanist as "Exogenous,"

the word implies, of outside growth.
The class opposite to this is " Endogenous," signifying an inside growth, such as the palm tree, known to us
as " partridge " and " porcupine " wood, and used only for inlaying.
Bamboos
also belong to this class, but are scarcely important enough for notice in spite
or, as

of their unfortunate introduction into the furniture trade.

The exogenous trees are again divided into two distinct classes, viz.,
broad leaf" and " needle leaf." The oak, walnut, mahogany, &c, are broad
leaf trees, and produce timber which is largely made up of real vessels or pores,
"

and

in

a general

way they

are termed

"

hardwoods," although some of them, such

as whitewood, willow, and poplar, are comparatively soft.

ous with exceptions

in

the

holm oak,

holly, &c.

On

They

are also decidu-

the other hand needle

produce timber without such pores, except in small quantities near

woody substance being chiefly composed of what are known as
" tracheites," and " parenchyma," or tissue.
The difference in the two structures
is easily recognised by examining the end grains of a piece of oak and yellow
deal.
The pores are plainly visible in the oak, whilst the deal appears to be
made up of spongy fibres. These needle leaf trees are the conifers, such as
the pines, firs, yews, cedars, and larch, and with some exceptions (the larch is
one) are evergreen. They are called the " soft " and " resinous " woods. Other
leaf trees

the heart, the

326

ENGLISH, FOREIGN,
points

of difference

may

shows the section of a

of illustration.

The

AND COLONIAL WOODS

327

be noted by reference to the diagram, f. 1, which

tree slightly exaggerated for purposes

hardwood

centre spot represents the

medulla the rings shown light

and dark are the " annual rings," the light one
known as the " spring," and the dark the
" autumn " ring.
As a rule they are the result
of one year's growth, formed by the upward or
downward movement of the sap and woodforming substances.
They vary in width in
different trees.
In the conifers they are, as a
rule, strongly marked, and also in the oak (see
f.
in
2, a section of English oak full size)
mahogany and walnut a little less, and in
ebony they are hardly visible.
The outside
thick dark ring is the bark, rind, or cortex,
pith, heart, or

some

and furrowed, as the oak,

others thin and scaly,
1. Section of Half a Tree, showing
as in the beech, birch, and plane.
Between
Heart, Sap, Rays, and Rings.
the bark and the last ring is a thin layer known
as the "cambium," which contains the active wood-forming substances and
generative tissue. The shaded portion is the real or heartwood known as
the "duramen," whilst the
in

ash,

trees thick

and chestnut

in

lighter

outside

known

as the "

or

sapwood.

wood
is

are

This

varies in width,

"

sap-

and

usually lighter in colour

than
in

rings

alburnum

the

some

although

heart,

the ash for

trees,

one, the difference

is

hardly

In nearly all

recognisable.

woods the sap should not

be used as it rots quickly,
but the ash is looked upon
as an exception to the ruleThe lines which radiate
from the centre are the
"
" medullary "
" pith
or
in

nearly
all
2.

Section of English Oak,

many

full size.

woods, and
of the hard, such as

the

walnut,

teak,

mahogany, but

make

the

are

" figure "

very plain
or

" silver

in

oak,

grain,"

plane,

also

and

known

" soft "

beech.
as

"

clash

In
"

and
oak they
and " felt,"
ash,

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

328

lacewood," which is figured plane. These rays are thin

running right through the tree, and act as ducts to carrymoisture from the sap to the heart. There are long and short rays, generally
known as " primary " and " secondary."

and give the name to

"

plates of cellular tissue

Defects and Diseases

Defects.

Most woods

are liable,

in

Timber.

to some defect or disease,

The most common to the tree
Ring " shakes. The " Heart Shake,"

more or

less,

either in the standing tree or converted logs.

are the " Heart," " Star," and "

f.

i,

It is

or "

but amongst the least affected are Sabicu,

The diagram shows the shake in a log
said to be due to incipient decay when the heartwood begins to

affects nearly all

timber

trees,

Cuba mahogany, and English

of oak.

Cup "
elm.

shrink up.

Star Shake," f. 2, is a decided cleavage along the line of the rays, and
widening towards the outer rings as the log dries. This shake may also be
"

1.

Heart Shake.

2.

Star Shake.

due to some decay, sudden heat or frost. The "Cup" or "Ring" Shake,
f.
1, next page, clearly shows a separation of the rings due to an absence of
cohesive qualities between the layers, caused either by high winds, frost, or
These diagrams have been
insect ravages, and in some cases by all three.
drawn from actual logs. "Rifty" and "Shelly" are terms applied to similar
shakes on the surface, whilst " Thunder Shake " or " Upsett," is caused by
sudden fall or violent concussion which crushes the fibres into each other.
This shake is usually recognised by a dark broken line across the board
" Sun Shakes " are due to sudden
shown in the diagram,
2, next page.
drying when timber is exposed to the sun. They will be few or numerous
according to the time of exposure, and they run in lines parallel to the rays
and sometimes along the rings. The heart of a tree sometimes " wanders
through irregular growth, and the " fibre " or grain is " twisty " through strain
when exposed to high winds.
f.

ENGLISH, FOREIGN, AND COLONIAL WOODS

329

named there must always be numerous shakes

timber which cannot be explained or classified, and it must be

In addition to the above

and defects

in

noted that the names change in different

localities.

Diseases. " Wet Rot " attacks a standing or newly felled tree, and is
caused by excess of moisture, which, having no vent, brings on decomposition,

and discolours and rots the wood. It is discovered in boards by the brownish
" Dry Rot
colour and powder similar to touchwood.
is set up in unseasoned timber or in situations where
the ventilation

The

is

defective, as in the floor of a house.

indications of the rot are a fusty smell

first

and

a covering of white mildew, together with discoloration

which powders and crumbles away.

a term given to a form of decay
I. Cup Shake.
which produces a stain of a whitish grey colour
with dark specks, and reduces the wood to powder.
" Foxiness " is also a form of decay which discolours the wood as in " Brown "
" Druxiness "
and " Pollard oak."
is
an early state of decomposition
recognised by white or yellowish streaks running with the grain.
A
" Druxy " knot is soft and rotten, as against the " Live " knot which is hard and
" Rind Gall " is caused by a bruise in the bark, or by the breaking
well set.
of a branch leaving a wound which does not heal properly.
Trees in full leaf
are attacked by insects which produce
growths known as " galls," of which the
"apple" and "artichoke" on the oak are
common examples, whilst other trees
are ravaged by their own particular pest

of
"

the

wood,

Doatiness

"

is

of fungus.

"

Burrs

"

are

the result

of

a defect or malformed growth, and ap-

pear as great swellings on the side of the

2.

Thunder Shake.

tree.

Wood-boring

beetles

and worms

destroy converted and made-up timber,

both indoors and out, as well as

and Pine Beetle are among the

living trees.
largest,

The Goat Moth, Wood Wasp,

worms are well

whilst the smaller

An attack may be arrested by soaking the part

chemical solutions, such as bichloride of mercury, or copper sulphate,
but the safest way is to cut out all affected parts, as some of these creatures
will migrate to other articles in the same room.

known

as the furniture pests.

in strong

Shrinkage and Warpage.

timber contains about 40 per cent, of water, which, in drying,
12 per cent., so that a considerable contraction in bulk and
about
is reduced to
weight takes place during the drying or seasoning process. The direction of

Newly

felled

n.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

33

shrinkage is nearly always circumferential, and f. i shows it in half a round, and

As there is most moisture in the sap, the greatest
f.
2 in quartered logs.
contraction takes place in the outside rings, which accounts for the distorted

I.

Shrinkage

in

Half-round Log.

2.

Shrinkage

in

Quartered

Losrs.

square when the opposite corners seem to draw nearer each other. In like
manner boards or planks will shrink, and consequently warp, as shown in f. 3,
the part of the board near the heart, or
driest wood, remaining practically fixed,
whilst each end of the board curls

from the heart, only the

board contracting equally
This is an important point
wide stuff for ends or tops,

away

centre or heart

on both

sides.

to note in using

so that the least

amount of warpage or " pull " takes place

when the stuff is fixed, or allowance is
made for it in fixing. Even a well-dried
board may warp when planed up and the
air, and boards
return to their
which
are
badly
warped
will
3. Shrinkage or Warpage in
right flatness if laid on the damped floor,
or Board.
hollow side down. The degree of warpage
depends on the way the board has been cut, the maximum when sawn as in the
last diagram, and the minimum when cut on the quarter or parallel to the rays.

pores are opened to the

Planks

Seasoning.
whereby the moisture in the wood evaporates or
and all it contains gets set or seasoned. The
best and surest method, though not the quickest, is known as "natural"
seasoning.
Logs and planks are stacked in covered sheds with open sides,
where they are kept dry but get plenty of air. In the stacking a space is left
between each plank to form an air passage, and the layers are put at right angles
to each other to allow for this, and to tie the stack together.
Planks of hardwood are sometimes stacked on edge in racks, but deals are piled in parallel
rows with an air passage between each one. Boards are piled in stacks as they
are cut from the log, but with slips of similar wood, all of the same thickness,
Seasoning

is

a process

dries up, whilst the

wood

itself

ENGLISH, FOREIGN,
between each one,

for the air

at intervals of

to

ft.

AND COLONIAL WOODS

passage as in sketch below.

These

33*
slips are

apart, according to the thickness of the stuff,

and

put

strips

of wood, or lengths of hoop iron, are nailed over the ends to prevent splitting.

The

board by the slip is due to its not being moved

This omission often spoils a whole log of good
boards.
The period in which the log is drying is known as " First Seasoning,"
and Mr Thomas Laslett, the great expert on timber, has given eighteen months
as the required time for a log of oak from 16 to 20 in. square to season, and
nine months for a fir of the same dimensions. The " Second Seasoning " occurs
when the log has been converted into planks or boards, and the latter require at
least two years on the stacks, and always more if possible before they are taken
into the shops for use.
Even then it
is safer to rough it up and let it stand
for a time before working it.
In
small shops, boards are laid on the
beams under the roof, and get well
stain

along

in

sometimes

in a

left

the course of drying.

seasoned.

Hot Air Seasoning,

tion.

This

process

or Desicca-

quicker and

is

is

often adopted as a second seasoning.

The timber

is

placed

in

a chamber in

which the air is kept at a temperature

of 200 degs. Fahr. The disadvantage
of this

wood,
brittle,

The

method is that it bleaches the

and also tends to make it
especially mahogany and ash.

price for desiccation

ac-

varies

Stacking Boards for Seasoning.

cording to thickness, I -in. stuff being

charged at 5s. per 100 ft. super.

Wet

in running water, which

This takes from fourteen to
twenty days, and the log must then be stacked for natural and slow drying.
Water seasoning is most suitable for logs used in damp situations, such as piles.

Seasoning

forces out the sap

if

for logs is

done by immersion

the butt end meets the stream.

Other methods are by " steaming " or " boiling," " charring," " oiling," and
smoking," but for all general purposes the natural method is acknowledged to
be the best. Rare and fine woods require special processes. Ebony is totally
immersed in water for about a year, and then carefully covered for slow drying.
Holly is sometimes boiled, and then wrapped up to dry. In all cases it must be
the nature of the wood and its uses which determine the process.

"

Conversion.
The methods of conversion vary according to the timber and market
The simplest one is by the " tangent " or " bastard " cut right
requirements.
through the round

log, as in

f.

1,

next page.

This produces boards or planks

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

332

with

"

waney "

edges.

Pine and

fir

logs are cut as in

f.

2 below, the inner planks

and the outer 7 by 2|

3,
being an alternative cut. Fig. 4 shows the cut in a pitch pine log to obtain the
In oak there are various cuts to obtain the best
figure for panel boards.
Fig. 5 shows four methods, and where the
figure with the least waste.
ii

by

in.,

in.

or as the size of the log allows,

f.

boards are cut in a line with the rays, the finest clash is obtained. In the
top right quarter, wide and narrow boards are cut and the pieces left are
used for tile laths, &c. The other quarters produce both plain and figured
boards in cutting. In the Riga and Austrian oak the logs are " flitched " as
in f. 6.
The two planks cut from the centre produce "Wainscot" boards,
but this term is applied to figured oak generally when it is cut in this way.
The word is of Dutch origin, " Wagen-schot," wooden partition, or wall covering,

1.

4.

Tangent Cut.

Pitch Pine Boards.

2.

5.

Pine Planks.

Conversion of Oak.

3.

6.

Pine Planks.

An Oak

Flitch for

Wainscot.

which the best oak was used, hence the best boards cut from a log are
"wainscot" wood. The heart end of the planks are cut off when necessary.
" Stave Oak "
for coopers is shipped in small balks from 3 to 6 ft. long,
6 in. wide, and 3 and 4 in. thick. Soft woods are mostly imported in planks
and deals of uniform width and thickness. A pine plank is usually 1 1 in.
wide and 3 in. thick in varying lengths. When cut down the thickness it
produces thin iJ-in. boards which are known as "one cut pine"; two cuts
produce three boards under 1 in. known as " two cut pine," and so on up
All imported boards of hard
to " nine cut " for thin picture backing.
is required to finish 1 in.
and
if
a
board
nominal
thickness,
under
wood are
specially from the plank.
cut
ij-in.
stuff,
or
worked
from
it would have to be
through the thickness
and
is
called
"deeping,"
width
down
the
Sawing
" flatting."
These cuts are charged at rates according to depth and length
in

AND COLONIAL WOODS

ENGLISH, FOREIGN,

333

Imported boards are "square edged" or cut from

from 2^d. per dozen.
square sawn or quartered logs, whilst home converted logs produce boards
with hewn or waney edges if by bastard cut, or one square edge if cut from
squared stuff or

flitches.

Commercial Sizes and Terms.

The tree trunk

The log squared
Plank. Usually
by
Log.

and roughly hewn.

shipment and saw mill.
1 1
they may be
3 in. and any length in soft woods
over, but not under 9 by if in. in hard or soft woods.
Deal. -Usually a small plank 9 in. wide and over 2 in. thick. The term
is applied to spruce, viz., white deal, and Baltic fir known as yellow and red
felled

Balk.

for

deal according to locality.

Any length, width over

and thickness under
From 7 to 9 wide, and between and
but wall
and 4
wide.
battens are
Quartering. The
produced by sawing or
a plank into
or
by
thickness, also known as "solids."
lengths 4 by
Scantling. Any sawn lengths of odd dimensions; "stuff"
a general
term.
Square. 100 super
or 270 cub.
Standard. Equal to 120
each 12
by 9 by
Boards.

2 in.

5 in.,

Batten.

in.

in.

2, 3,

" flatting "

stuff

3 in.

2 in. thick,

2 in.

is

ft.

deals,

This

is

the

London standard which

Baltic, viz., 120 deals

Three

by

ft.

Ply. Thin

1 1

by

boards

ft.

differs slightly

from

in.

ft.

that in use on the

equals 165 cub. ft.

of layers of veneer crossing each
can be obtained up to 4 ft. square, and

3 in.

made up

other to a thickness of T3F or \ in.,

are used for panels, drawer bottoms, &c.

Matched Boards.
in.

Usually

imported

wide, and sold by the square at

5s.

or

in
7s.

and yellow deal 5 or 7

Soft woods are usually sold

white

by the "load" (50 cub. ft.), "hundred" (120 deals), standard, or in smaller
quantities by plank or deal at per foot " run " in the lengths.
Hard woods
in the log by cubic, and planks and boards by super feet in the inch.
Special
woods, like rosewood and ebony, which are imported in " billets," and box,
which comes in " sticks," are sold by weight. At present there are no means
of classifying or testing any new timbers which are introduced, although
the authorities at Kew Gardens are always willing to identify or verify a
specimen. A name is often given to a wood from its port of shipment, although
In the following
the same timber may be shipped from two or more places.
list alternative names are given when they occur, as they differ even in England
sometimes. As far as possible, correct prices and usual sizes are given, but
that they fluctuate and vary considerably.
This is
it must be remembered
also true of colour and texture, a fact which makes it inadvisable to lay down
hard and fast rules.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

334

Hard Woods.
Probably the hardest wood known is the ironwood of India, which is
unworkable. Next come lignum vitae and the ebonies, whilst
the softest are the poplars used for paper pulp.
Oak, English (Quercus robur). Two varieties, the " peduncled " with
long stalks to its acorns, and the "sessiled," with short ones, but long stalks
to its leaves.
The wood of the first named is said to be the strongest and
most durable, but as so much depends on soil and situation a doubt always
exists.
The woods are so much alike in appearance that it is also difficult
to verify them.
A third variety, "intermedia," with short stalks to acorns and
leaves, the latter downy underneath, is uncommon, and is said to yield a much
inferior wood.
English is the most durable of all oaks, specially under water.
The writer has examined and worked old beams over five hundred years old
when the wood has been as hard as boards of five years' seasoning. In colour,
various shades of light brown, sap yellowish, rings distinct and sometimes wavy
(see p. 327), rays distinct and numerous in both kinds, producing the "silver
grain," " clash," " figure," or " felt," when cut on the quarter.
Grain rather
coarse and open, difficult to work, warps and splits in drying, but always repays
working up. Darkens with age or in contact with water. Used for church
work, shipbuilding (the twisty growth providing good " knees " or " ribs "),
cleaving, waggon, and railway work.
It is difficult to get, and is but rarely
used in cabinetwork.
Brown Oak is a variety of English, or the timber of a tree which has lost
its vitality, a form of decay known as " foxiness."
The strong acid in the wood
turns it into a warm brown colour, but does not destroy its texture.
Used
chiefly in veneers and dining-room furniture.
Pollard Oak. The timber of trees which have been " polled " and stunted
in their growth.
The wood is dark brown with a wavy grain and variable
figure.
Stumps and gnarls also produce finely figured veneers, very hard and
tough, and difficult to lay.
Bog or Black Oak. Any oak will turn black if left in a damp place, but
to blacken it right through it should be laid in a pond or bog.
The name
originated from the trunks of trees dug up out of Irish bogs.
The wood is
liable to split, and is only suitable for turnery, inlaying, veneer, and fancy
practically

articles.

Baltic or

and

European Oaks.

These constitute the chief oaks of commerce,

Most of them are

the ports of shipment.
Que reus robur.
Riga Oak. The product of Russian forests, and shipped at Riga. Also
known as "Riga wainscot" from the numerous rays which produce boards of
unusually fine figure.
Eor this reason the logs are sawn and shipped in the
shape shown in
The wood is moderately hard,
6, p. 332, known as a " flitch."
light brown in colour, rings and rays distinct, sap narrow and whitish, open in the
take

names

their

f.

from

ENGLISH, FOREIGN, AND COLONIAL WOODS

335

and fume well. Logs and half logs from 18 to 25 ft.

and 10 to 16 in. wide, and are sold at iod. to is. per foot in the inch.
Riga oak is looked upon as the finest in quality of the Baltic oaks, but like all
others it varies.
The logs are sorted and marked or " bracked " according to
the soundness or straight growth of the wood.
The best logs are described as
"crown," and are given a special mark, W, whilst the second, or twisty, coarse
ones are also stamped WW, to show their inferiority. By these marks merchants
grain, but takes polish

long,

can easily distinguish the

qualities.

Although

taking its name from the port, this oak comes

from the Polish forests, and is also shipped at Memel and Stettin. It is similar
in colour and texture to the Riga quality, but is not so finely figured.
Imported
in logs 18 to 30 ft. long, 10 to 16 in. square, and planks from 2 to 6 in. thick.
Staves are also shipped for cask work. They vary in size, but are usually
These odd timbers have given it
3 or 6 ft. long, 6 in. wide, and 3 in. thick.
the name of stave oak
sold at 9d. and iod. a foot in inch.
Odessa Oak is also a Polish forest tree, but instead of being rafted down
the rivers it is taken overland to the Black Sea and shipped at Odessa, the
long journey partly seasoning it. In consequence of this it fetches a higher
price on the English market.
Austrian or Adriatic Oak. This oak is the product of the great forests
AustriaHungary, and is perhaps the most useful of the European hardwoods,
of
owing to its even growth, good figure, and easy working. As a rule it is lighter
in colour than the others, and has a small silvery figure somewhat resembling
the English oak.
It is fairly straight in the grain, rays and rings distinct,
sapwood a greyish white, and does not twist in working. It is shipped from
Trieste and Fiume in logs from 12 to 20 in. square, and sells at about 9d.
It is largely used for furniture, takes fume and polish well, and makes
per foot.
up well for dados and panelling.
Spanish Oak is rather dark, soft, and liable to shrink. The logs are small
and curved, and they are imported chiefly for ship work.
Italian Oak is very hard, and heavier than the English wood.
It is darkish
brown in colour, close in the grain, and difficult to work. In shipyards it is
preferred to English oak for framings, but is unsuitable for board work.
French Oak, from Brittany and Normandy, is very similar to English both
It also shrinks and splits less in
in colour and texture but smaller in growth.

Dantzig Oak.

seasoning.

Turkey Oak,

the

reddish brown heart.

showy

"

Mossy Cupped Oak,"

It varies in

hardness, but

has a broad sapwood and a

numerous rays give it a very

its

figure.

American Oaks.

A great quantity of oak comes from America, but it is all inferior to the
European wood. Most of it is coarse in the grain, liable to shrink, and does not
take fume well, but it is used in considerable quantities for cheap furniture, and
owing to its great elasticity can be bent easily.
American White Oak (Quercus alba). Known as "Quebec" and " Balti-

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

336

more," from Canada and North America.

rays numerous and distinct, rings close and
in

the grain

liable

to shrink,

but

less

Light reddish brown with white sap,

wavy

heavy, hard, and fairly straight

than other American oaks. When
;

quartered produces finely figured boards. Shipped from Quebec in logs from
"
20 to 30 ft. long, and 11 to 20 in. square. Also planks and " square-edged

boards

5d. to 76. in the inch

according to width.

similar

White Oak of the Western and Southern States.

American Red Oak (Quercus rubra). Canada and
Commonly named " American " or " Canadian " " Red."

the

name

is

given to

North- East America.

Reddish brown and

open grain and very porous, white sapwood, sometimes heavy and tough
and often soft and brittle, inferior to White oak, liable to shrink and warp.
Imported in logs, planks, and boards similar to above, and sells from 5d.
There are many other varieties of oak in America, among which
a foot upwards.
is the Bur oak, very similar to the White and classed with it.
It is a common
forest tree from Manitoba to Texas.
The Live Oak from the Southern States, a darkish brown wood, hard and
tough, and said to be the toughest and strongest of American oaks
and the
Yellow Oak from the Eastern States, which is often sold as White oak but is
pinkish,

inferior to

it.

African Oak {Oldfieldia africand). West Tropical Africa, shipped from

Sierra Leone.
A dark reddish wood, very hard, close grained and extremely
durable, and shrinks and warps but little.
Sometimes called African Teak.
African Oak (Lophira alatd). From the Gold Coast, Lagos. Intensively
hard, deep red in colour, coarse open grain, rays invisible.
Both these woods
are known on the London market, and are used for purposes where durable
timber is necessary. The latter is often confused with African mahogany.
The Zeen Oak from North- West Africa is a real oak of a rosy-yellow colour
and very heavy. Oak grows plentifully in India, and is usually harder and
heavier than European wood.
Colonial " oaks " are described in the pages devoted to timbers of the

various Colonies.

Mahoganies.

Mahogany was first introduced at the close of the sixteenth century, but
not come into general use for cabinetmakers until the middle of the
eighteenth, when Chippendale made his name famous with it.
Real mahogany
(Swietenia makagoni) is now getting scarce, and many bastard woods are sold
under the same name. Central America, Mexico, and the West Indian Islands
did

form the main sources of supply of the real woods, whilst immense logs of
inferior timber are shipped from Gambia, Lagos, and Benin, and sold as " African
mahogany." Mahogany takes its place as the premier furniture wood from its
warm rich colour, variety of fine figure, and good constructional qualities. It
shrinks and warps less than most hardwoods, is generally proof against insect
attack, and improves with age.
Cuba Mahogany (Swietenia). Sometimes called Spanish from the fact that
the Spaniards once held possession of the West Indies.
All the islands, Hayti,

ENGLISH, FOREIGN,

AND COLONIAL WOODS

337

Cuba, Nassau, Jamaica, and Trinidad, supplied mahogany. The wood is a dark
reddish brown, hard, heavy, close and straight in the grain, sapwood narrow,

and rays just visible with flecks of lime in the pores. The quality
and figure vary, and when cut near a branch the tree produces the best " curls "
and " feathers " for veneers. Very small and choice logs are shipped from St
Domingo, the port of Hayti, and they are seldom over 10 ft. long or 12 in. square.
Smaller logs, rarely over 5 ft. in length and from 6 to 10 in. square, come from
Nassau, whilst the larger Cuba wood yields logs of varying size from 15 to 25 ft.
long, and 12 to 20 in. square.
Good Cuba fetches iod. to is. 6d. per foot,
according to width, and the veneers from 6d. to 2s. according to figure.
Honduras Mahogany {Szvietenia). From Central America. Lighter in
colour and weight than Cuba, varies considerably in quality
good wood is
clean, crisp, and uniform in grain and colour, easy to work and does not cast
inferior wood is pale brown, soft and spongy, coarse grained and woolly.
The
plain stuff was sometimes called " Baywood," but much of it is well figured and
produces the " Fiddle Back " for veneers. Honduras is the best wood for
interior work, drawers, panels, and as a reliable ground for veneering.
It
shrinks but little, and is consequently used with pine for pattern making.
Logs
20 to 30 ft. long, and 12 to 24 in. wide, price from 6d. per foot upwards.
A supply of mahogany also comes from Guatemala and Nicaragua often
called Laguna wood, but it is similar to Honduras and is sometimes sold
rings distinct,

as such.

Mexican Mahogany.
respects,

is

This

good substitute

yielding logs from 15 to 36

The wood

is

in.

for

Honduras

timber, though inferior to

it,

and

is

usually of

much

in

many

larger dimensions,

square, especially from the district of Minatitlan.

generally a good colour, but varies considerably in quality.

Much

and so liable to shakes and inclined to be

brittle.
The best is known as Tabasco wood, and quantities of similar timber
come from the districts of Santa Ana and Tonala. Much of the Tabasco quality
has a good roe figure, which, though difficult to clean up, shows well in the
polish.
The exceptional width of Mexican mahogany makes it suitable for
counter and fascia boards. The price is similar to Honduras, and increases with
the width. " Caoba " is the Spanish name for this wood.
of

it is

soft

and spongy near the

African Mahogany,

"

heart,

Dubini."

Said to be Khayu senegalen&s,

case of Mexican, there appears to be

some doubt

as to

its

but, as in the

natural order.

It is

shipped from the Gold Coast, Benin, and Lagos, and is also known as " Gambia,"
" Niger," and " Lagos," although these names only specify the district.
The
best quality, from Lagos, is hard, fairly close in the grain, and sometimes a good
colour, but as a rule the wood is pale as though bleached, and coarse as well as
soft and woolly.
A few logs are found to be well figured, but though it varies
in quality, the general texture of the wood is not suitable for good cabinetwork.
Imported in logs up to 3 ft. wide, and 12, 15, and 20 ft. long; price from
6d. per foot.

The

following timbers resembling

mahogany

are sometimes used as such

Toon or Indian Mahogany {Cedreta toona). Or Moulmien Cedar, from

Bengal and Burmah. Fairly hard, pale red, straight grained and fragrant, but
liable to

shakes

suitable for cabinetwork.

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

338

Padouk,

Andaman

or

Andaman Redwood
Dark

Islands.

red,

(Pterocarpns indicus).

heavier

than

From Burmah and

mahogany, hard,

close grained,

slightly fragrant, with variety in figure.

From the West

Indies, especially Cuba.

Dark reddish
and sometimes wavy does not split or
Altogether a good substitute for mahogany.
shrink much in drying.
Angelique. From Brazil and British Guiana. Reddish brown, fairly hard,
Wavy figure and unpleasant smell in working, said to be
free from knots.

Sabicu, or Savicu.
brown, hard, heavy, close

in

the grain,

extremely durable.

Mora.

From

Trinidad and

Guiana.

hard, and close grained, takes good polish,

Reddish brown, fine curly figure,

and is a good substitute for Cuba

mahogany.
Satine\ Guiana. Deep reddish brown, sometimes well figured and lustrous,
hard, and close grained, works up well and takes good polish, quite a good
cabinet wood.

Santa Maria.

Honduras

does not shrink or warp much.

mistaken for it.
Australian or " Colonial "

and Central America. Pale red, fairly hard,

Very similar to Mexican mahogany and often

mahoganies

are

under

described

"

Colonial

Woods."

Walnuts.
English Walnut (Juglans regid)

brown

in

to work.

is

but rarely used

in

furniture

and

is

Usually pale greyish

fairly hard but easy
colour, but sometimes marked with dark veins
It was largely used for Queen Anne furniture, but has been found to

difficult to get.

It

varies in quality according to growth.

be a prey to worms.
Italian

Used

Walnut (/.

chiefly for

regid).

gun

stocks.

Southern Europe generally.

Good

quality wood,

with darker stripes, and is chiefly cut into veneers for

the "herring bone" panels and borders used in furniture of the Queen Anne
style.
The wood is fairly hard, even grained, and usually easy to work. There
is

light

brown

in colour

a wide sapwood and considerable waste in boards, consequently it is an

expensive wood and is only used in the best work as well as for piano cases.
It is shipped from Italy in planks 4 and 6 in. thick, 4 to 12 ft. long, and from
Good stuff fetches is. a foot in the inch. The "Burrs" are
12 to 24 in. wide.
cut into veneers for pianos and fancy tables.
Black Sea or Circassian Walnut is a finely figured wood with an open
It is largely used in veneers which
grain quite distinct from the Italian wood.
show a dark wavy figure, but rarely found in cabinet woods. Though inferior
to Italian walnut in texture, it is usually classed with it and sold under similar

is

conditions.

It is

imported

French Walnut
of

it

being quite plain.

is

in short logs

6 to 10

ft.

long and 9 to 18

similar to Italian but inferior in colour

and

in.

square.

figure,

much

American Black Walnut (Juglans nigra). Eastern North America, but

most abundant in the Central States. Dark purplish brown with narrow sapwood.
Hard, rather coarse in the grain, but the best wood is fairly easy to

ENGLISH, FOREIGN,

AND COLONIAL WOODS

339

much figure more durable than European walnut. It stands

and shrinks but little. Shipped from New York in logs from 10 to 20 ft.
long and 12 to 25 in. square; also in planks and square edge boards, which
work, with not

well

are sold from 6d. a foot upwards.

African or Golden Walnut. From West Africa, introduced by Sir Alfred

is a bastard Cedrela, golden brown in colour, hard, coarse grain, good figure,
works up well, and is now being used for bedroom suites in place of black walnut.
Satin Walnut or Sweet Gum {Liquidambar styraciflua). Eastern States.
A reddish brown wood with darker veins, works up with a satiny surface, hence its
name, soft and easy to work, but warps and twists considerably. Imported in
planks and boards, and used for the cheapest furniture. The White Walnut or
Butternut is a somewhat similar wood, but little used in England.
Jones

Satinwoods.

East Indian Satinwood (Chloroxylon swielenia). Ceylon and Central and

Southern India. Light or darkish yellow, sapwood greyish, heavy, hard, and
close in the grain, durable, from its oily nature.
Some wood quite plain but
generally with a beautiful figure of striped and zigzag markings.
Used chiefly
in veneers both knife and saw cut, and sold from 6d. to 2s. 6d. per foot.
The
curls and feathers are usually very fine in this wood.
It is shipped from
Singapore in logs 12 ft. long and up to 2 ft. wide.
West Indian Satinwood (Zanthoxylon). From the West Indian Islands,
Nassau, Bahamas, and Dominica. An old gold colour, darker than the East
Indian and closer in the grain. Produces a fine flowery and mottled fiddle-back
figure.
Veneers fetch a high price, and the logs are smaller than those from the
East Indies. The "yellow woods" of Australia are also known by the same
name.

Rosewoods.

Rosewood, South American (Dalbergia

nigra).

From

Brazil, Rio,

and

Bahia ports, and varieties from the West Indies, Honduras, and Ceylon. Dark
reddish brown in varying tints, with almost black or darker brown stripes and
markings, works up with a fragrant smell from which it takes its name. Some
wood straight in the grain, and much, which is cut into veneers, with a showy
spreading figure. The rings are often irregular and wavy, and the wood is
heavy and hard. The logs are usually rotten at the heart or shattered with
heart shake, which necessitates a conversion to " half rounds " or flitches and
owing to the difficulties of measurement, the wood is sold by weight at prices
varying from ^10 to 30 per ton.
Indian Rosewood or Blackwood (Dalbergia latifolid). A purplish black
wood, and, as a rule, fragrant close in the grain and mostly without figure,
works up closely and is usually very tough. Exported from Bombay and sold
by weight. Bastard rosewoods are non-fragrant, and are usually of a sickly,
One known as " Borneo Rosewood " propurplish colour, and coarse grained.
duces wide veneers but with little figure.
;

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

34

Ebonies.

Ebony

varies in colour from yellowish white, red,

which is the heartwood. It is one of the heaviest
and hardest woods known, and it grows chiefly in India, whilst varieties come
from the West Indies and Tropical and South Africa.
Black Ebony. Southern India, Ceylon, Burmah, also from South Africa,
known as " Cape Ebony," usually jet black. The best black is said to come
from Mauritius.
Brown Ebony. Also from India, Burmah, and West Indies. Brown, with
darker blackish stripes, and not quite so dense as the black.
Green Ebony or Cocus Wood. India and the West Indies. Varies in
colour, sometimes greenish black or brown.
Used in veneers and for musical

(natural order

brown, green, to

Ebe.7ia.cece)

jet black,

instruments, such as

flutes.

variety with a reddish tint

is

known

as

Red

Ebony, and comes from Mauritius.

Coromandel Wood or Bombay Ebony, from the Coromandel Coast, is

generally black with yellowish mottles or thin yellow stripes, a feature which
makes
2s.

it

an extremely beautiful and expensive wood, the veneers fetching from

6d. per foot.

Calamander Wood.
black stripes and figure.

From
Very

Ceylon.

dark brown, densely hard wood,

scarce.

Marblewood. From Andaman Islands. Alternate bands of black or brown,

and grey or yellow, going right through the wood. There are quite a number
of bastard ebonies, and the "German ebony" of commerce used for backs of
brushes, knife handles, &c, is pearwood or sycamore stained.
Ebony does
not yield very large timber.
The sap is usually wide and yellowish, the heart
producing the real ebony, or black wood, scarcely ever reaching over 10
in. wide.
It is imported in " billets " and small logs which fetch from 5
to 10 per ton, and they are generally converted into veneer, or used for
turnery and mathematical instruments.

Small Fancy Woods.

Snakewood, or Leopard Wood. From British Guiana. Dark chestnut

brown with darker mottled bands running from the heart at right angles
and less distinct near the sap. The wood is hard but generally shaky. Used
for walking sticks, violin bows, veneering and inlaying.
The sap resembles
boxwood, and is sometimes 4 or 5 in. wide as well as being intensely hard.
Sold by weight.
Kingwood, or Violetwood. From Tropical America and Guiana. Dark
purple with darker streaks, hard and close grained.
Imported in small "sticks,"
seldom exceeding 5 in. wide, and cut into veneers for bandings and inlaying.
Purplewood, or Purpleheart. From Brazil and Guiana. Good quality

wood
no

is

figure,

an even-toned purple which darkens on exposure. Close grained,

hard but fairly easy to work. Veneers 12 to 15 in. wide.

ENGLISH, FOREIGN, AND COLONIAL WOODS

341

Amboyna. From Amboyna and Ceram in the Molucca Islands. Shipped

from Singapore. Known chiefly from its burrs, which are chestnut or reddish
brown, and beautifully spotted, mottled, and figured with a variety of markings,
of which the close spotted is the choicest. Sold in slabs by weight, and cut
into veneers.
A slab of plain wood at Kew is over 6 ft. wide.
Thuya. A burr from Morocco and Algeria, said to be the " citron
wood of the Romans. Bright chestnut brown with groups of spots which are
Distinguished
generally holes, and a wild curly figure resembling burr yew.
from Amboyna by fewer spots, and which are separated into groups of six
or nine.
The wood is also harder. Sold in parcels or leaves of veneer.
Burr Yew {English). At one time a choice wood for knife boxes and
A reddish brown with wavy figure and dark spots, intensely
tea caddies.
The straight wood of
hard, and showy when polished, but difficult to work.
It has been proved
the yew is hard and durable, but fairly easy to work.
to be almost indestructible under ground. It is sometimes used for chairmaking,

but

is

always

difficult to get.

Tulipwood

(Brazil).

Hard and
Zebrawood.

tulip.

hence

its

name.

fleshy

The name

of yellow or grey.

close grained.

is

red

or

Used

wood with stripes

resemblance to the English

rose-coloured

taken from

its

for veneers

and bandings.

From Brazil and Guiana. Reddish brown with dark

bandings and inlaying.
Used
or coco-nut from India and the Tropics.
Wood. A palm

stripes,

for

tree
Porcupine
Being a palm the fibres resemble the black and white quills of the porcupine,
which also appear as spots on the cross section. Used for inlaying and walking
The brown variety is known as Pheasant or Partridge wood, but
sticks.
the same name is given to other woods with similar figure which are not
real palms.

Olive Wood. The Mediterranean, Italy, and Spain. Light brown with
dark wavy mottles and veins, fairly hard, easy to work or carve. Used in
veneers, and thin boards for boxes, frames, &c.
Lignum Vitae. British Guiana and West Indies. Intensely hard, dark
brown or greenish black, with yellow sap, which is said to be as durable and
hard as the heartwood. Used for cogs, plumbers' tools, and ship blocks.
Box. Central and Southern Europe. Light yellow, very dense, hard, and
Imported in sticks of varying thickness from Circassia and
difficult to split.

Turkey, and sold by weight.

Harewood

or

Mousewood and Greywood. Stained

sycamore, which

After exposure this turns to a brownish grey,

It is found on old French and eighteenth
giving the name of harewood.
century cabinets, used in veneers, but ^-in. stuff can now be stained right

when

fresh has a blue-grey tint.

through.

Central

Europe and an American

Trees
timber
yards.
in England grow to a girth of 20 in., but they rarely get into the
The wood is an ivory or greenish white, hard, close in grain, and even in

Holly (Ilex aquifolium).

texture, inferior

and stained
Cherry.

wood

coarse.

for imitation

Europe

Used

variety.

for printers' blocks, engraving, inlaying,

ebony.

and North Asia, America, and Australia.

Yellowish

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

342

brown and sometimes a pinkish red, hard, and varying in texture, both close
English wood has a reddish tinge, but there are many
grained and coarse.
The American and Australian cherry woods are usually a good
varieties.
colour, easy to work, and are useful for inlaying and small interior work.
Pearwood. Europe and West Asia. A pinkish red centre with yellowish
Hard, close-grained even texture easily worked with a satiny
white sapwood.
Australian produce
English trees vary both in quality and colour.
surface.
good figured wood. Used chiefly for drawing instruments, engraving, inlaying,
and stained for ebony.
Apple. English wood is very hard and heavy, reddish brown with white
sapwood, warps badly, and is sometimes extremely brittle. Good for mallet

heads, turnery, tool handles, &c.

English and other Hard Woods and Broad-leaf Soft Woods.

Ash {Fraxinus

excelsior).
Great Britain, Central and Northern Europe, and
English wood a brownish white, rings distinct, rays almost invisible,
sapwood very wide and difficult to distinguish from heartwood, and unlike most
woods the two can be used together. The wood is best known for its toughness
and elasticity, hence is used for shafts, cooperage, and coach building.
American White Ash. The wood is much whiter than the English or
European, and the sapwood is more distinct. It is imported in logs 12 to 25 ft.
It
long, and 12 to 18 in. square, and also in planks and square-edged boards.
is the ash known in the bedroom furniture trade, and sells from 6d. per foot

America.

in the inch.

Canadian or Quebec Ash. Similar to the American, but darker in colour.

Hungarian Ash. The name given to the finely figured wood from Austria,
Hungary, and the Pyrenees. The wood is a whitish yellow, and the wavy
figure and mottle known as " ram's horn " makes it a showy wood for panels,

hence

it is

usually sold in veneers.

sylvaticd).
Common to Great Britain, Europe generally, and
English beech is usually a dull white with a reddish tinge, but the
colour varies with the soil.
Rings clearly marked, and rays numerous and
distinct.
The wood is hard, heavy, and tough, and durable under water. In
furniture it was used largely for "stuff-over" frames of chairs and couches, and
in this respect is often attacked by worms.
With elm and ash it is used in the
manufacture of small chairs, and is often stained for mahogany. The qualities
in beech are divided into red and white, and the red is generally accepted as the
best.
Beech is plentiful in France, Germany, and Austria, where it is also used
as fuel.
It is the staple wood for benches, tool handles, mallets, and engineering
purposes, and is imported from Germany in large quantities both in log and

Beech (Fagns

America.

plank.

Known as "red" and "white," from the United States

Imported from St John's and New Brunswick, and used for
similar purposes to the European beech, but generally inferior in quality.
American Beech.

and Canada.

ENGLISH, FOREIGN, AND COLONIAL WOODS

343

Birch (Betula alba). Common to Great Britain and Europe generally.

Light reddish brown in colour with fine silvery streaks in the grain. Fairly
hard and even grained, easy to work, but not very durable, and liable to worm
attack.
Often used as a substitute for beech in chairmaking. European wood
from Prussia, Germany, and Sweden is usually imported with the bark on.
American Birch. Eastern United States and Canada. Also known as
" cherry birch," " mahogany birch," and " mountain mahogany."
A red-brown
wood which darkens on exposure, hard and strong, and often finely figured near

Sometimes stained and described

Mahogany," and at one time largely used for bedroom furniture.
Shipped from Quebec in logs 12 to 18 ft. long, and 12 to 20 in. square, and also

the edges with wide flashes of darker wood.

as " Colonial

and sold at 5d. and 6d. per foot in the inch.

Chestnut, Sweet or Spanish (Castanea vesca). England, especially southern
Light brown in colour, similar
counties, and Southern Europe and America.
Grain rather
to oak, but no medullary rays showing, and a white sapwood.
Sometimes used for dados
coarse and open, softer than oak, and liable to warp.
and panelling in place of oak where a dull, even tone with no figure is desired,
in planks,

but otherwise

in little use, whilst the

and only suitable

for fences

wood of

the

Horse Chestnut

coarse,

is

and farming work.

Maple {Acer campestre). Common to England, Central Europe, and

America. Yellowish white, and good stuff almost white, hard, tough, and
working up with a silky surface. The rays are very fine but distinct, and some
wood produces good curly or mottled figure. Used for turnery and knife
handles, and the figured wood as veneers for interior finishings for boxes and
jewel cabinets.

American

or Bird's

Eye Maple.

Known

officially in

America as

"

Sugar

Eastern States of North America. Sapwood whitish, heartwood

yellowish brown, fairly hard, close grained, and working up with fine smooth
surface.
The figure known as "bird's eye" appears in the form of small spots,
or pits, at varying intervals, and they are linked up with wavy lines in the

Maple."

The "blister" figure is produced by the rotary lathe cutting spirally,

and other figures are the "curly" and "fiddle back" produced by a certain
growth and accentuated by methods of cutting. The wood and veneers are
imported from St John's and Quebec, and are chiefly used for ships' cabins,
Maple is but seldom used for furniture.
trams, railway carriage, and office work.
Sycamore {Acer pseudo-platanus). Allied to the Maple but known as the
Plane in Scotland. White, hard, and tough, and liable to warp. Rays fine and
grain.

numerous, which give a lustrous surface. Used chiefly for turnery, coach panels,
rollers for washing machines, and veneers for cabinetwork, which are stained
It is common to England, Europe, and
all colours as well as black for Ebony.
America, but the supply is limited. The original Sycamore was used to make

Egyptian mummy cases.

Plane Tree. Two well-divided timbers, one the Eastern (P/atanus
orientalis) of Europe and North Africa, and the other the Western (Platamts
Occidentalis) of North America, also known as " button wood " and " lacewood."
Reddish brown resembling the red beech, heavy, hard, and tough, cross grained
and liable to warp. Often used as a substitute for birch or beech in chair

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

344

The rays are broad and darker than the wood, and when cut radially
produce the figure which gives it the name of " lacewood " as sold in fretwork
boards.
The well-known tree in the London streets which sheds its bark in
flakes is the Eastern plane.
Poplar. " Black," " white," " Lombardy," and " trembling " or aspen tree,
all producing soft whitish woods of little use except for rough fencing and
farm work.
Teak (Tectona grandis). Central and Southern India, Burma, and Ceylon.
Dark brown, fairly hard, and straight in the grain, and, as a rule, easy to work
darkens on exposure, and is sometimes finely figured. It contains an oily resin
which throws off an unpleasant odour in working, and when hardened in the
pores easily blunts the tool. This resin makes teak a valuable and durable
wood for civil engineering and railway and shipbuilding. It is often used in
shop and public office work for dados, flooring, table and counter tops. Imported from Moulmein and Rangoon in logs 12 to 30 ft. long and squaring 12
to 20 in., and sold from yd. per foot upwards according to width.
Bastard Teak produces a finely figured wood sold in veneers as " Pheasant
wood."
It is dark brown with old gold and darker markings, and makes a good
showy wood for bandings and centres. Also known as " Granite Wood."
Greenheart, from South America and West Indies, is a brownish green
wood, extremely durable and insect-proof under water. Imported in logs for
frames.

and shipbuilding.
Hickory. Closely allied to the walnuts of North America. A reddish
white wood, hard, tough, elastic, and coarse in the grain specially suitable and
used for carriage building and handles for tools.
Hornbeam. A common forest tree in England and Central Europe, and
imported from France. Yellowish white in colour, hard, close grained and very
tough, with little or no sap.
Used for tool handles, cogs, and printers' rollers.
Elm. English, known as " Common " and " Wych Elm," a tree also distributed over Europe.
The wood is light brown in colour with yellowish sap
hard, tough, coarse grained, and liable to twist and warp.
Very durable under
ground or water, and formerly used for water pipes. Used for coach building,
seats for Windsor chairs, naves for wheels, coffin boards, and pulley blocks.
Canadian Rock Elm, from Eastern United States, is also a very tough,
durable wood but easier to work than the English elm. Straighter and closer in
the grain, but somewhat similar in appearance except when seen in the board,
when it does not show such a wild twisty texture. Shipped in logs 12 to 25
12 to 18 in.
ft. long and squaring from
Used for similar purposes to English
elm and selling 4d. per foot.
Orham Wood, from Canada, is a species of elm but is much coarser than
English wood, and is often sold as Rock elm. The name is taken from the
French orme = e\m.
Lancewood. From Honduras, Cuba, Jamaica. Yellowish white, sap and
heart alike, grain very close, hard as box, tough and elastic.
Used for turnery,
shafts, and imported in small spars.
piles

Lime, or Linden {Tilia parvifolid). Common

Light yellow, sometimes with a reddish

generally.

to

England and Europe

tinge,

soft,

light,

easy to

ENGLISH, FOREIGN,

AND COLONIAL WOODS

345

work, and close grained. Much prized by carvers and used by Grinling
Gibbons for much of his work. Imported from Europe, the Baltic principally,
and also used for turnery and interior piano work.

Basswood, or American Lime {Tilia americand). Eastern United States

and Canada. Whitish to lemon colour, soft, close grained, and sometimes
stringy and tough.
Called Bass from the inner bark or " bast," and often confused with and sold as whitewood.
The wood shrinks considerably and is not
very durable. The tree produces wide boards free from knots, and it is used
extensively for cheap furniture, turnery, toys, and paper pulp.
As a rule it is
distinguished from whitewood by its deeper lemon colour and close grain.
Imported in planks and boards and sold at about 4d. per foot.
Whitewood, or Tulip Tree. Also known as Yellow Poplar and Canary
Wood. This is the wood of a large forest tree known as the Tulip Tree
(Liriodendron tulipifera), abundant in the Central and Southern States of North
America, and shipped from New York and Baltimore. The tree grows to an
immense size, often to a diameter of from 3 to 6 ft, with a clear stem up to 70
ft.
The heartwood is a lemon colour but varies, and the sapwood is whitish

with grey or bluish streaks.

The

texture varies from an even, straight grain to

a coarse one, and the qualities sold on the market are

As

" sap."

known

as

"prime" and

easy to work, is liable to shrink and warp, takes stain and

polish well, and it is free from knots.
Occasionally some finely figured mottled
veneers are cut, but it is most used in the solid.
Imported in planks and square
edged boards of varying widths, and used largely for cheap furniture, and as a
a rule

it is

substitute for pine.

Price according to width from 3d. per foot in the inch,

planed wood extra.

American Poplar

is often sold as whitewood, but it is whiter, softer, and

used as " three ply " for drawing boards, and is also known as
" cottonwood," one of the softest of pulp woods for paper making.
Willow. Various species of Salix, the most important being the white
Its chief virtue is in being
willow, common to England and Europe generally.
soft, light, and non-splitting, even when badly bruised, hence its use for cricket
bats.
It is also in demand for water wheels and steamboat paddles, but is not
a cabinet wood, though occasionally made up into chairs.
Alder is another soft wood which does not warp or split. White when
It is durable under water, and is imported
freshly cut, it turns to a fleshy red.

stringy.

It is

from the Baltic

for the

bobbin and charcoal trade.

Needle-Leafed, Coniferous Trees, and Soft Woods.

strobus).
A forest tree of North America from Quebec
Southern States, and known there as White Pine. It was planted in
England by Lord Weymouth, and is sometimes named after him. Usually of
a straw colour with bluish grey sapwood, soft, easy to work, light, and straight
grained, it is the softest but most reliable of the pine woods, but getting scarce.
It warps and shrinks but little, and the " first " quality is free from resin and

Yellow Pine (Pinus

to the

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

346

sometimes subject to cup and heart shake. It makes

is clean and suitable for interior work,
and a quantity of wood is used up in the making of drawing boards. Logs
from 12 to 30 ft. long and 12 to 24 in. wide are shipped from Quebec and
St John's, but it is imported chiefly in planks 1 1 by 3 in. and upwards,
which are sold in selected "firsts" or "prime," "seconds," and "thirds" in
knots, although the

wood

is

a good ground for veneering upon, and

best

the

quality,

fetching

commonest is usually cut

Yellow Deal (Pinus

is.

per

foot

run

in

1 1

by

planking.

in.

The

into very thin stuff for picture backing.

sylvestris).

Riga, and Baltic Fir, as well as

Known as Northern

Red

Deal.

Pine, Scotch, Danzig,

Europe and North Asia, the names

above indicating the ports of shipment. The colour of the wood varies from
yellow to reddish brown, which tends to darken in drying, leaving the sap
It is resinous, and the rings are clearly marked and
whitish with a red tint.
The best wood, which comes
close, and knots appear at irregular intervals.
from the Baltic, usually Danzig, works up clean and silky in planing, and is the
It is remarkable for its durability in wet
selected stuff for good house building.
or dry situations, and although not a cabinetmaker's wood,

it

is

not an un-

used as a carcase wood in Queen Anne furniture and as

Logs are shipped at the Baltic ports from the forests of
a veneer ground.
Russia, Poland, 18 to 40 ft. long and 11 to 18 in. square, and also in planks and
deals.
It is also imported from Archangel, and Sweden and Norway in various

common

thing to find

qualities, the
is

it

The home-grown wood is inferior, and

Good planks 3 by 1 in. fetch is. per foot

Swedish ranking lowest.

generally used up for pit wood.

run, but large quantities are

bought by the "standard."

" Norway Spruce," and

commerce. Sweden, Norway, Denmark, and " Prussia," once
named Pruce, from which it takes its name. The slender stems are shipped
whole for spars and scaffold poles. The larger wood comes in deals and planks.
The small knots are brittle,
It is yellowish or straw-white, tough, and springy.
and the wood warps and shrinks moderately, and is not very resinous. It is
used for kitchen dressers and tables, steps, packing-cases, and pulp, and is con-

Deal, or Spruce (Picea exce/sa)." White Fir,"

White

White Deal

in

siderably cheaper than yellow deal.

or Black Spruce is a similar wood, but with small black loose
shipped from St John's and Nova Scotia.
Pitch Pine (Pinus australis), with varieties. Southern States of North
Very heavy and resinous, autumn
America, Georgia, Florida, and Carolina.
rings broad and dark brown, general appearance of wood an orange-yellow.
Some wood with wavy and showy figure, known as panel wood. Difficult to

American

knots, and

is

work and season owing to resin, and liable to shrink considerably. Extremely
and used chiefly for ship work, piles, and for church and school
Shipped from Savannah, Pensacola, and Darien in logs 12 to 18 in.
furniture.
square and from 20 to 30 ft. long, and also in planks. Pitch pine produces the
turpentine of commerce.
Oregon Pine, or Douglas Fir. North-Western America. The wood

durable,

varies,

but

is

usually a reddish white with a narrow yellow sap.

It

is

rather

heavy, hard, and tough. The knots are distributed in small clusters as in larch,
and the wood does not warp much, and is fairly straight grained. It is a clean

ENGLISH, FOREIGN,
wood

AND COLONIAL WOODS

347

and carpentry, and

Gardens is a well-known
specimen 159 ft. high, and the logs or "spars" vary from 30 to 100 ft. in length,
and from 10 to 40 in. in diameter.
Sequoia, or Californian Redwood. A very soft, reddish brown wood, not
strong, brittle, easily split, and with a spongy texture.
Used for interior work,
for interior

work, but

especially for ships'

is

chiefly used for shipbuilding

The

masts.

flagstaff at

Kew

panels, backs, drawers, &c.

Carolina or Columbian

known

the trade as

"

Pine.

British

Columbia and North Carolina,

Dark yellow

in colour with lighter strips,

easy to work, but coarse in texture, fragrant, and does not warp
much used for interior work. Imported in logs, planks, and boards from 12 to
20 ft. long, and from 12 in. upwards in width.
Canadian Red Pine is a whitish wood tinged with yellow, and works up
with a silky surface somewhat similar to the best yellow deal.
It is tough, and
does not shrink very much though resinous.
Swiss Pine, the wood of the silver fir, is imported from Switzerland, chiefly
as sounding boards for pianos.
It is also the wood used by the natives for toys

light

in

and

Carolina."

soft,

and carvings.

Larch (Larix enropcea). A native of the European Alps and Northern

Europe generally, and well known among the conifers of the United Kingdom.
Mostly used for building purposes, scaffold poles, and fencing very durable but
shrinks badly., Venice is said to have been built on larch piles, and the tree
produces the Venice turpentine of commerce. American Larch or Tamarack,
from Canada and North-Eastern States, is a similar wood used for much the
same purposes.
Cedar. Out of some thirty named varieties, the two best known to
commerce are the Pencil or American Cedar and the West Indian. The
;

former (Juniperous virginiana) is the well-known pencil wood, very fragrant,

Brownish red in colour, with rather wide, whitish
soft, easy to work, but brittle.
sapwood. Used chiefly for interior work, drawers, pigeon holes, and workboxes.
States.
The West Indian " Honduras " or
It comes from the Southern
" Mexican " cedar is the reddish wood resembling mahogany.
It is fragrant,
sometimes figured, and varies in colour, the light wood being used for cigar
boxes. The chief supplies come from the West Indian Islands, Central and
Tropical America, but there are many bastard woods of good and bad quality.
The Indian Cedars are reddish woods, fragrant and durable, with some
resemblance to mahogany, one being known as " Indian Mahogany," or " Toon."
White Cedar, really a cypress, is not quite white, but lighter than the above,
used for canoe building. Lebanon, the true cedar, a tree well known and
prized on English lawns, and introduced towards the end of the seventeenth
century, is but little known for its wood, which is reddish brown, fragrant, very

and

is

and spongy.
Cypress is a reddish brown wood of varying tints and qualities, and a native
It is very durable, and was the wood used for mummy
of Greece and Persia.
known. The American Cypress, or white cedar of
little
now
but
but
is
cases,
deciduous
tree, and produces a reddish or whiter wood,
is
a
States,
Southern
the
according to situation of growth, and is used chiefly in America. The Cypress

soft

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

348

Pine of North and East Australia, of several varieties, has a strong fragrance,
something like camphor, and is sometimes called camphor wood, but cypress is
but little known or used in England.

Woods Producing

Dyes.

Logwood. From Central America and Jamaica. Dark brownish red, and
very hard. Imported in short logs 3 to 4 ft. long, and sold in chips which
produce red or black dyes.
Fustic.
A yellow wood from Tropical America, producing a well-known
yellow dye.
Red Sanders Wood. From India and Ceylon. A hard, deep red wood,

soluble in alcohol, and a variety, which

known

is

a purplish

red

soluble in water,

and Tropical America.

as red sandalwood, from India

Brazilwood. From Tropical America, also used for its red dye, and one
from India of the same species, known as Sappanwood.
Sandalwood of India is one of many fragrant smelling woods with a
similar name, used in Indian work, but known for its sweet scented oil, which
is an important commercial product.
Camwood, from West Africa, is also imported, and distilled into a red
dye for cottons, whilst Camphor Wood, from India, China, and Japan, is a
soft yellowish brown wood, imported specially for entomological cases for its
strong fragrance.

Sumach,

also

known

as wild olive, a dark yellow wood,

Greece as a dye for leather and woollen

Cabinet

New
The

is

imported from

stuffs.

Woods from the

Colonies.

Zealand, Tasmania, Australia, New South Wales, Victoria,

Queensland, South Africa.

following details of Colonial

woods are taken from

official

handbooks

kindly lent for the purpose by the Agents-General for the Colonies named.

Many

of the specimens described have also been tested and used by the authors,

or verified in the

Timber Museum

at

New

Kew

Gardens.

Zealand.

The official list names eighty-six timber trees, but of these only a few are
known to the English trade, or as commercial woods. Foremost among them
is the Kauri Pine {Agathis australis), also known as " Cowdie" or New Zealand
Pine.

It

is

a conifer and sfrows to lanre dimensions.

Light reddish brown

AND COLONIAL WOODS

ENGLISH, FOREIGN,

349

in colour, rays and rings partly visible, wide whitish sap, easy to work with
a silky surface, close and straight in grain, fairly hard for pine, takes stain

and polish

well.

The

coarse stuff inclined to warp and twist, but best boards

usually free from blemish, knot, or shake.

Used

and
and planks

largely for vat-making,

Imported

successfully in church work, dados, panelling, &c.

in logs

from i to 3 and 4 ft. wide, and up to 20 ft. long. Price according to width
about 4d. per foot super in inch. There are over a dozen varieties, the chief
being known as " Mottled Kauri," which is highly ornamental and is cut into
The mottling is caused by the indentation of the
veneers for cabinetwork.
bark in the growth, and takes the form of dark elongated markings in the
lighter wood.

Rimu,
as Kauri.

or

Red Pine {Dacrydium

Deep

cupressinuni).

A conifer not so well known

red in colour, figured with dark or light streaks, works up

and takes good polish, wide sap rays invisible, shrinks laterally. Suitable
bank and office work, ships' panels, &c. Burrs produce finely figured veneers.
Logs and planks from 1 to 2 ft. wide, 12 to 20 ft. long. Not much known in

well
for

England.

Honeysuckle or
brown and the other a

wood

"

or plane tree

Rewa

{Knightia

" light silver

when

excelsa).

Two

varieties,

one reddish

hue," but both with figure similar to " lace-

cut radially.

The wood

is

fine

and close

in

the grain,

Suitable for panels and

Black Pine, or Matai (Podocarpus spicatd). Reddish brown or bright
cinnamon colour, smooth and silky texture, fine and even grain, strong, fairly
hard and durable, rays and rings visible, does not shrink much in drying. A
Used for cabinet and building work,
variety called Miro is finely figured.
timber
2
length.
yields
to
ft.
wide
and
log
and
4
totard).
A rich rosy red in
or
Zealand
Yew
{Podocarpus
Totara,
New
rays and rings
grained,
close
sapwood
whitish,
heavy,
fairly
hard,
colour,
mahogany, and
for
substitute
good
does
not
warp
much,
said
to
be
a
visible,
fine
burrs, and is
Produces
pencil
cedar,
though
darker
in
colour.
resembles
office
fittings.
ship
and
for
used
Rata is another hard, red wood used in building railway, ship, and wheel-

cabinetwork generally.

rays and rings distinct.

wrights' work.

Black Maire, an olive tree, produces wood of a similar character, hard

and durable, sometimes beautifully figured and suitable for cabinetwork.
Red Birch {Fagus fused). Really a beech, and said to be superior to all

The wood

reddish brown, with lighter sap rings clearly defined but

rays indistinct, tough, straight, and even grained and durable, easy to work,
and takes good polish, produces wide boards and said to be a good wood for
others.

is

furniture construction.

Dark brown, yellow sap,

Puriri, or New Zealand Teak ( Vitex littoralzs).
Rings and rays indistinct. Used for shipvery hard, heavy, and durable.
building, railway, and engineering work.
White Pine {Podocarpus dacrydioides). Yellowish white, similar to pale

whitewood, rather hard and tough, brittle, works easily, sapwood wide, rings
indistinct, rays visible, free from knots, liable to warp, not very durable
suitable for cheap furniture and purposes similar to uses of white deal, but not

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

35o

so strong.
a white

Yields wide planks and boards, sold at 3d.

wood

in

the inch.

Silver Pine,

with a satiny surface, like good deal, and stronger and tougher

than white pine, is sometimes mottled and used for cabinetwork. Although
New Zealand timbers are not so well known at present, it is probable that
rimu and honeysuckle may become popular as " furniture woods " before many
years, especially as the supply of other hardwoods diminishes.

Tasmania.
Tasmania,

like Australia,

commonly known

as

gum

trees.

produces

many

Such are the

"

species of the eucalyptus trees,

Swamp,"

"

Red,"

"

Blue," " Cider,"

Weeping," and " White " Gums. Other eucalypti are the " Stringy " and " Iron
Bark," and the Peppermint Tree. These are mostly hard, heavy, dense, and
durable woods, in a few cases suitable for furniture, but mostly fit for railway,
Possible furniture woods
agricultural, and building purposes, or wood paving.
are the Beech (Fagus CunningJiami), known as Myrtle, a greyish brown wood
with a satiny surface and feathered figure. A pink variety is much prized for

"

furniture wood known in England is the " Blackwood," or

cabinetwork.
Acacia melanoxylon, the latter word meaning black wood. It resembles walnut,

A similar
in some varieties is beautifully figured, though it varies in colour.
wood with the same name comes from Australia. The " Black " and Silver
" Wattles " are also acacias, the former a yellowish brown wood with a fine

and

figure,

and the

Huon Pine

latter,

and

darker, harder,

Among

heavier.

The wood

the conifers the

almost a bright yellow with

darker spots and wavy markings, but as it contains an oil which oxidises, the
It also has an unpleasant odour.
yellow turns to a "smoky brown" with age.
The oil makes it almost rot proof. It is tough and heavy for pine, but easy to
is

the best known.

is

work, takes a good polish, and is suitable for panels and dados. A fine
specimen can be seen at Kew. " Celery Top," " Oyster Bay," and " King
William " are other pines, while Sassafras is also a light-coloured wood said
The He and She Oaks are
to be good for carving and interior cabinetwork.
well-figured ornamental woods, and the "Native Cherry" and the "Musk"
are used for furniture and joinery.

The

official

handbook names

fifty

trees,

specimens of which can be examined at the Kew Museum. Those named appear
to be the chief cabinet woods, some of which are on the London market, viz.,
Huon pine, blackwood, and sassafras.

Western

Australia.

The timbers

of this colony appear to be most' suitable for railway, engineering, and agricultural purposes, and are confined largely to the products of the
eucalyptus trees. Such are Jarrah, Karri, Blackbutt, Wandoo, Tuart, Red, White,

of which are hard, dense, strong, and durable timbers, well

known as paving woods, but not yet acceptable as timbers in the furniture trade.
Sandalwood is exported to the East, and many of the trees have been success-

and York Gums,

all

fully acclimatised in

South Africa.

Plate

LI.

China Cabinet made of Australian " Black Bean " exhibited in the
Panelled Room illustrated on Plate LIL, page 351.

[To face page 350.

ENGLISH, FOREIGN, AND COLONIAL

WOODS V

351

Victoria.

In this State the principal timbers are also the product of eucalyptus trees.

Bark, Blue Gum, Grey Box, Stringy Barks, Messmate, and

Blackbutt are known for similar purposes to those already described. Blackwood (Acacia) is used for furniture, billiard tables, chairmaking, and general
It is often well figured
cabinetwork, as well as for railway and boat building.
and mottled, is similar to the blackwood of Tasmania. Evergreen Beech is
also used for furniture and is a good carver's wood, whilst Satin Box, Pencilwood, and " Olive " are small trees supplying ornamental woods for veneers
and turnery.

Red

Iron,

New
New

South Wales.

South Wales possesses a vast

variety of trees, including

many

forest

area which produces a great

of the eucalyptus type, such as the Iron Barks,

GumsWhite, Spotted, Grey, and Red Blackbutt,

Woolybutt, Tallow-wood, and White and Red " Mahogany," all of which,
like similar trees in the sister colonies, are strong, hard, and durable timbers,
used for paving, railway work, van building, and builder work generally. The
colony also produces some interesting furniture woods, chief of which are the
Black Bean, a dark brown wood rather like walnut but more strongly marked
in the grain.
Most suitable for heavy furniture and framed work as panelling
dados, general joinery, and gun stocks.
Stringy Barks, the

White Beech. A yellowish or pinkish white wood similar in texture to

English lime. It is moderately hard, close in grain, and even in texture, and is
highly recommended for carvers.
It shrinks but very little, and is also used
for ordinary carpentry purposesLightish brown in colour with darker figure caused by the
Silky Oak.

plane tree (lacewood). Quite suitable for small furniture. The Red
Silky Oak is darker with a reddish tinge.
Rosewood. A dark reddish coloured wood, fragrant, and with a rich

ray as

in

Honduras mahogany in furniture and general

indoor work and show cases.
Spotted Gum is a pale yellowish brown wood with straight grain, tough,
and bends well when cold. It is recommended for flooring, and builders'

figure.

Used

as a substitute for

cabinetmaking, and suitable

work, whilst

its

for all

bending properties make

it

suitable

for

coach and carriage

building.

LI I., opposite, was exhibited at the

South Wales Government. It was
designed by Mr Arnold Mitchell, F.R.I.B.A., and made by Messrs G. Trollope
& Sons and Colls & Sons, Ltd., by whose kind permission the photographs are
reproduced. The panelling and all the furniture and carving was made of
New South Wales wood. The panelling of black bean, the carving of white
beech, and the parquet flooring of spotted gum. The fine china cabinet on
Plate LI., as well as the sideboard, tall-boy chest, and bureau, shown

The room

Franco-British

illustrated

Exhibition

on

Plate

by the

New

MODERN CABINETWORK, FURNITURE, AND FITMENTS

352

room, were made of the black bean, whilst the small table and nest
The octagon
of tea tables shown opposite were constructed of silky oak.
mahogany,
were
made
of
the
rosewood.
looked
like
which
table and chairs,
suited
designs,
chosen
and
the
the
warm
well
were
woods
In all cases the
in
successful
the
panelling
and
particularly
being
bean
black
brown of the
spoken
of
by
West
End
carvers,
and
is
well
beech
The
white
larger furniture.
silky
oak
for
small
fancy
things.
The
suitability
of
doubt
of
the
there can be no
timbers were shipped by Messrs T. Gabriel & Sons, of Lambeth.
The Red Bean. A dark red wood, of a different natural order to black
Sometimes sold as bastard cedar. A good furniture wood with fine
bean.

in the

good polish and looks well made up.

figure, takes

Wood

its odour) is also a kind of bastard cedar, and is used

Myall {Acacia) is a dark violet-brown wood, intensely
Used for turnery, chessmen, pipes, and fancy
hard, heavy, figured, and fragrant.
Ordnance Department for spokes of gun
selected
by
the
goods, and lately
Yarran, Brigalow, True and Bastard
myall
are
the
Varieties of
carriages.

Onion

(from

for similar purposes.

Myall.

She Oaks

{Casuarind).

are not real oaks,

is

These

and they vary

in

as She, He, and Silky Oaks

from
red
to light brown.
The wood
colour

woods such

generally hard and heavy and well figured.

In veneers

it is

valuable for ship

Numerous

and cabinet work, and in the solid for tools, spokes, and turnery.
local
"

names

Shingle,"

are given to these woods, such as

"

Beefwood.

Silvery,"

Other

"

New

"

Swamp,"

"

Scrub,"

"

Stunted,"

Oak, as well as " Red Ash " and

South Wales woods are Tulipwood, resembling olive, and
Forest," and

"

Bull

"

Blackwood {Acacia)
and largely used for cabinetwork
maple Cudgerie, and Native Teak Blueberry Ash, a whitish, tough wood, suitable for bedroom furniture Maiden's
Blush, a rosy coloured wood which fades into brown when cut Saxifrage and
Cork, or Coachwood, which is extremely valuable for coach and carriage
building Moreton Bay Pine, the principal soft wood of New South Wales
and Cypress Pine, a strong smelling, camphoraceous wood, somewhat like
sandalwood, but possessing a fine showy figure in some varieties Red and
White Honeysuckle, and Needlewood, used for pipes and Red Cedar, a real
cedar which is said to be equal to mahogany for a furniture wood both in figure
and texture, though softer.
beautifully figured

Muskwood,

similar to bird's-eye

Queensland.

Most of the Queensland timbers are also found in New South Wales, and
mentioned above. They are Spotted Gum, Grey Iron Back, Sassafras,
Moreton Bay and Cypress Pine, Blue Gum, Yellowwood, and White Cedar.
Flindosa is a very hard wood, and used as a substitute for beech. Bunyabunya is a beautifully figured wood, said to be suitable for furniture and
Bloodwood is another name for the rosewood referred to.

are

w
H
<

ENGLISH, FOREIGN,

AND COLONIAL WOODS

South

353

Africa.

Also known as Cape Walnut. A dark brown, hard, close

wood with a bright silky surface, but liable to warp used for cabinetmaking and waggon work. When fresh cut has an unpleasant smell which is

Stinkwood.

grained

lost in seasoning.

An

extremely durable wood, equal in rank to greenheart.

Light reddish brown in
its name.
Used for furniture, bridges, and engineering.
colour, darkening with exposure.
Yellowwood. A light yellow, soft wood, even grain, but liable to warp,
strong and elastic, used for furniture, &c.
Kamassi. Also known as Cape Box. Light yellow, hard, close grained,
suitable for tools, and used for furniture.
Saffronwood. Reddish yellow in colour, close grain, hard and durable,
fine figure, used for cabinetwork and waggon building.
Cape Box, similar to ordinary boxwood, and Cape Cedar are both
Cape Ebony is a jet black, real ebony,
suitable for turnery and cabinetwork.
Ash,
Cape Ash, and Guar, a dark brown
and other cabinet woods are Rock
Ironwoods, black and white, are
African
South
The
finely figured timber.
vitae.
lignum
similar
to
intensely hard, and
Canadian, Gold Coast, and Nigerian timbers are described in the
Mahoganies, Oaks, and Pines, &c.

Sneezewood.

The

smell of the dust causes sneezing, hence

India.

very useful and well-figured timbers suitable for woodwork and

now (1922) being imported from India. A good selection may

Some

furniture are

be inspected at Messrs Howard's yard, Stanhope Street, W. The following

are a few of the best known
Silver Grey Wood. Varies from a uniform grey with a tinge of green
Works up well and the " grey " is quite permanent.
in it, to darker figured wood.
Laurel Wood. Very like Italian walnut, but varies considerably in figure
:

Makes excellent panelling.

Padauk. The Andaman wood is a

and colour.

rich red with

Haldu. A dark satinwood colour, said to be suitable

White Mahogany. A light coloured wood suitable

variety

is

fine figure.

The Burma

duller in colour.

for chair

work.

for interior parts

Whitewood.
Other woods are Koko, Gurgan, Pyenkado, Pyinma, and White Bombwe.

substitute for

Books of reference on Timbers are included

book.
23

in

the

list

at the

end of the

GLOSSARY
Abacus.

The

uppermost member of the capital of a column supporting the architrave and

entablature.

Acanthus. A

ornament based upon the foliage of the Acanthus spinosa, and used upon
and cornices of the Corinthian and Composite orders of architecture.
ACORN TURNING. A term applied to turned ornaments resembling the acorn, and largely
used in Jacobean work, chiefly on the backs of chairs.
Annulets. Encircling bands or fillets upon the lower part of the Doric capital.
Anthemion. A Greek ornament based upon the foliage of the chamomile.
APRON Piece. A term sometimes applied to wide curved rails in furniture, which are fixed
at a less height than 3 ft. from the floor line.
Archimedean. Based upon the principles of Archimede's screw, as in an Archimedean drill
which is operated with a spiral thread.
Architrave. The bottom member of the cornice or entablature in architecture also a
moulding surrounding a door or window opening.
Armoire. From the French, an old press or wardrobe. See p. 3.
Arris. The sharp edge or line formed by two plain surfaces in any material.
Astragal. A half-round moulding worked on the edge it is known as a bead.
AUGER. An instrument for boring holes. Usually made with a long stem, and operated with
leaf

the capitals, friezes,

a wooden handle fixed at right angles.

A recess or small cupboard in a wall, sometimes called " Aumrie."

Aumbry.

B
BADGER. A term
See

applied to a wide rebate plane length about 18 in., with an iron 2 in. in
Made with a skew mouth, and used for wide rebate and sunk bevels.
;

and upwards.

width,

p. 8.

BALK. A roughly squared log of timber. Cuba mahogany

Baltic Timber. The term "Baltic" embraces all kinds

is

imported

in this form.

of timber shipped from ports on

the Baltic Sea, including Russian, Prussian, Polish, Swedish, and Norwegian shipments.

BALUSTER. A small pillar or shaped upright used to support handrailing.

Baluster Turning. Characteristic of the Elizabethan and Jacobean periods.
of the former type

Balustrade.
Banding. A

is

illustrated

A row of turned
strip or

band

on

pillars

An example

p. 282.

supporting a

rail.

of veneer in a panel or round a drawer front, as in " cross " or

straight banding.

Banister. A

corruption of the term " Baluster."

The name

a chair back.

Barefaced Tenon. A

tenon shouldered on one side only.

355

is

also given to the uprights in

GLOSSARY

356

Barefaced Tongue. Similar

Barred Door. A framed-up

to the above.

door with traceried patterns made up with mouldings and

Introduced during the Chippendale and Sheraton periods.
Base. The bottom of an object, such as the base moulding of a column also the plinth in
carcase work.
Basil. The angle to which the cutting edge of a plane, iron, or chisel is ground.
Bay. Applied to windows, the term indicates a projection from the wall, forming a recess in
the room.
See also Oriel Window.
Bead. A small semicircular moulding, one of the group of nine classical mouldings. See
"slats" called "bars."

Astragal.
Bead and Butt.

A term applied to the finish of flush panels

rails

also applied to

drawer

slips.

See

framing.

in

are separated from the stiles or muntings with a "bead,"

The

sides of panels

and the ends butt against the

p. 82.

Bead and Flush. When the bead is worked and let in all round the panel.
Bead and Reel. Ornamental turning resembling these objects strung together
and frequently fixed in an angle or corner.
BEAM Compass. An instrument consisting of a long rod or lath with two
attached, one fitted with a point, and the other with a pencil.
It is used

alternately,

sliding

heads

for describing

large circles or arcs.

BEARER.

The drawer

rail in

a carcase or table, bearing the drawer.

Bed MOULDING. Any moulding placed under a "corona" or "drip" moulding of a cornice.
Bed Post. The legs of a bedstead, also applied to turned shafts or pillars supporting the
canopy of a bedstead, see p. 188.
Characteristic of Chippendale, Elizabethan, and
Hepplewhite four-poster bedsteads, which were often reeded and carved.
Bedstead Bolt. An iron bolt and nut used for connecting the side rails of French wooden
bedsteads to the posts. See p. 186.
BELLY. The protruding portion of a piece of work, also "bellied" applied to panelling that
has buckled owing to dampness.
Bench End. The upright end to a pew or church seat.
Bevel. A kind of chamfer also an adjustable tool similar to a square, used for marking out

" bevelled work.

Bezel. The metal ring surrounding a clock face glass, usually hinged.
Bidet. A small stand
with a pan for bedroom use.
;

"

fitted

Bird's-Beak Lock. Used on piano

out,

falls,

cylinder tables, and tambours, the bolt,

when

thrust

resembling a bird's beak.

Block Plane. An

iron plane, with an exceptionally low pitch to the iron, especially intended

upon a mitre block, and also with a shooting board.

Block Saw. For use upon a mitre block. See pp. 68 and 295.
Bodying In. A term applied to a process in French polishing executed before the
for use

finishing
stage
the grain of the wood.
Bolection. A rebated moulding,
over the edges of parts of framing, and raised
above the surface.
Bole. The trunk or stem of a
Bombe. A convex or arched surface, a feature
the construction of tables and commodes
the Louis XV. period.
Boss. A projecting ornament used at the intersection of angles
the mouldings of a ceiling.
Bottle Turning. A detail of Dutch origin, so-called because of
resemblance to a bottle.
A characteristic of the William and Mary period.
Bracket Cornice. A feature of the Elizabethan, Jacobean, and French Francois
and
;

literally, filling in

fitting

tree.

in

in

in

its

I.

Louis XIV. periods, consisting of a cornice moulding, supported by brackets fixed to the
frieze part.

Branch WOOD. An
owing

to its

BRASS FOIL.
Break. The

line

is

inferior quality timber, not generally

extreme tendency to

Dutch production, consisting of

thin sheet brass beaten out to a

projection on a cornice, carcase, or plinth

broken.

used for cabinet and joinery work

twist.

when

it

foil

stands forward or

thickness.

when

the

GLOSSARY

357

A woodwork
an open tenon. See chapter on "Joints."
A sideboard or cupboard for the display of china, plate, &c. A French term.
Buhl or Boule Work. A style of decoration comprising inlays of brass, tortoise-shell, ivory,
&c, invented by Andre Charles Boule. See chapter on " Veneering."
BULBOUS. A knobby or protuberant style of turnery of Dutch origin, and characteristic of
turned work executed
the Queen Anne period.
Bulkhead. A division or partition
shipvvork, the sides of a cabin or saloon.
Bull-Nose. A small plane with the mouth fixed close to the fore part of the stock. Used for

Bridle.
Buffet.

joint,

silver,

in

in

planing close up to a projecting part.

See p. 146.
(plural Bureaux). A writing desk or chest for holding papers.
BURR. A growth or excrescence on the bole of a tree also the arris or cutting edge of a scraper,
chisel, &c.
BUSH. A lined metal collar or connection.

Bureau

Butt Hinge. Used for hanging doors. See p. 260.

Butt Joint. A joint between the end grains of two pieces
See

of timber

when

there

is

no shoulder.

p. 47.

Cabinet. Originally a small room, a private room for consultations, but now applied to a
form of cupboard enclosed by doors, and used for the display of china, plate, &c.
Cabin Hook. A small hook and eye, chiefly used in cabin doors, and also applied to flaps and
doors in cabinet and joinery work.
Cabriole. A name given to a curved leg with a projecting knee part, curved shaft, and shaped
Largely used during the Queen Anne
toe, originating in legs resembling animal forms.
and Chippendale periods. See p. 321.
Camber. The convexity of a surface or arch. The convex deck line from port to starboard

in

shipwork.

Camp Bedstead. Portable,

consisting of a light framework, with legs folding underneath

when closed.
Candle Board.

A characteristic of Sheraton work, consisting of a small ledge or shelf

underneath a table

Canopy.

A fixture over a throne or bedstead

fitting

Now

almost obsolete.
also an ornamental Gothic projection over an

top, for the reception of a candlestick.

arch, niche, or doorway, &c.

CANT. An
Canteen.

inclination or

form of chamfer, as

"

canted

"

or bevelled edge.

A case containing cutlery and table accessories.

Canterbury. A seat with a " well to contain music, made specially for use at the piano.
"

moulded projecting member at the head of a shaft or column also

called "Cap" (an abbreviation) and formerly chapiter.
CARCASE. The body part of a box-like piece of furniture, without ornament or doors and
fittings.
See Wardrobe carcase on p. 75; also "Wing" carcase, occurring in large
furniture, and placed at the side of the main carcase, and "bottom" carcase, as in the

Capital. The carved

or

bottom part of a bookcase or tall-boy chest of drawers.

Carcase Work. Pertaining

and

to carcases as distinguished

from tablework,

z.e.,

framed-up

rails

legs.

Card Table. Specially designed for card playing. See illustrations on p. 133.
Cartoon Paper. Large-sized roll paper intended for full-size drawings and fresco
CARTOUCHE.

form of ornament resembling a tablet or

French Francois

I.

scroll

designs.

unrolled a feature of the

style of decoration.

Caryatide. A conventional female figure supporting an architectural arch or entablature.

Casement. A French form of window, hinged and opening outwards, either singly or

in

pairs.

Casement Stays. A
when adjusted

pivoted and drilled bar attached to

to the desired angle of opening.

sill

and casement

to fix the

window

GLOSSARY

358

Cast. The term applied to timber means twisted, and is generally used with reference to
lengthwise twisting.
Caul. A piece of wood or zinc plate used to impart the necessary heat and to distribute the
pressure obtained by clamps and hand-screws evenly over the veneer surface. See chapter
on " Veneering."
Cavetto. One of the classic mouldings generally described as, and synonymous with,
" Hollow."
Cellaret. A deep drawer or tray in a sideboard for bottles.
Celluloid. A chemically formed substitute for ivory, obtainable in thin sheets for marquetry,
and also in lines for inlaying. It consists of gun-cotton and camphor, and is highly
inflammable.
Chasing. A decorative finish applied to metal mounts, effected by incising patterns.
Check. A northern term identical with " Rebate."
Chequer. Decoration in the form of squares, differently shaded or coloured alternately, as in
a draught-board.
Chest. See Chapter I.
Chesterfield. The name given to a stuffed-over couch with double ends.
Cheval Glass. A large glass or mirror swinging between framed-up supports.
Cinquefoil. Gothic foliation having five cusps or foils. See p. 240.
Clamp. To fix or render firm, to prevent wood from casting also mortise and tenon clamping,
mitred clamping, and dowelled clamping tee iron clamps used for strengthening wide
See chapter on " Joints."
panels, and also to prevent them buckling.
Clash. The figure in oak the other words used are " felt " and " silver grain."
CLASSICAL. Applied to the Greek and Roman orders of architecture.
Claw AND BALL. A carved detail of ancient origin, resembling a bird's claw clasped round a
See p. 322.
ball
a characteristic detail at the bottom of Queen Anne and Georgian legs.
Cleat. A form of clamp, a batten nailed on to carpentry and joinery work for strengthening

Cleft. Meaning "split," stronger than sawn or "cut"

and used for hand-screws, &c.
CLUB Foot. Used
conjunction with a
early Queen Anne and Chippendale work, usually
straight type of "cabriole"
consisting of columns placed together
Clustered Columns. A Gothic
clusters of
the Chippendale period.
three and upwards, extensively used
Cocked Bead. Semicircular and projecting beyond an edge or surface, used round drawers,
purposes.

stuff,

in

in

leg.

detail,

in

in

work of the eighteenth century makers when sunk below the surface, the term
"sunk bead" is used, and when separated by a narrow sunk fillet or bead, it is called a
"quirked" bead. A Staff Bead is worked upon the edge of angles, and it is also termed

especially in

a " return

"

bead.

Colonial Georgian.

See chapter on " Mouldings."

style of furniture and decoration based upon the work of British

United States, and having an eighteenth century influence.
small cabinet or pedestal fitted with pan for bedroom use. The name was also

settlers in the

Commode. A

given to a chest of drawers.

Compass Plane. A plane

with a curved or flexible sole to

fit

and curved

circular forms

shapes.

An abbreviation of the term " composition," a substitute for wood carving also called
"stucco," introduced into English interior decoration by the brothers R. and J. Adam. The
chief constituents are whiting, glue, and resin
the patterns are cast from a mould carved in

COMPO.

hard wood.

Confidante. A sofa with seats at each end.

CONIFEROUS. A term applied to cone-bearing trees, such as the
cypress, pine, and yew.
Console. A large projecting bracket, usually of a scroll form, applied indiscriminately
furniture to "console" or bracket support tables and to large brackets under beams, &c.
CONTOUR. The profile or section of a moulding.
CONVOLUTE. Material rolled
the form of a
Composite. The fifth order of architecture, a combination of Ionic and Corinthian.
Concave. A hollow curved line or surface.
fir,

in

scroll.

in

GLOSSARY
Coopered

Joints.

and

barrels

CORE.

They are

used

in

curved work, and resemble those

made by coopers

in

tubs.

An internal mould used

for castings

the term

between saw cuts

The

is

also frequently applied to internal

remove the core, i.e., waste material

grooves and housed joints and in mortises.
third order of Grecian architecture which possesses the most elaborate

parts of furniture, such as the inside of a pillar

Corinthian.

359

also to

in

capital.

Cork Rubber. A

piece of cork about 4 in. by 25 in. by 1 in., used with glass-paper

Cork carpet glued to a piece of wood answers the same purpose.

flat

for finishing work.

Rubbers are also shaped to fit the contour of mouldings, &c.

Cornice. The crowning or finishing part of a capital or column, the top member of an
entablature, or the projecting connection between the wall and ceiling of the room.
See
also Bracket Cornice.
Corona. One of the classic mouldings, usually a large flat projection in a cornice moulding.
Also called a " drip " moulding, from the original use of this member, i.e., in preventing
"capillary attraction"; this was effected by throating or undercutting the projection
(see p. 274), and rain water then could not "soak" under the "soffit."

A tool to form a conical depression or cavity a piece of wood or metal to

Court Cupboard. An Elizabethan form of cabinet a chest on legs with a recessed cupboard above.
furniture,
denotes a
Cove. A large hollow. This term usually refers to rooms applied

Countersink.

in

receive a screw head.

to

large hollow cornice,

and

is

it

synonymous with "niche," a curved recess which

also

often

contains a statuette.

Cramp.

An

iron or

wooden instrument serving

For chair-maker's cramp, see

to force or bring together joints in

woodwork.

p. 316.

A Gothic name a side or re-table.

An arrangement of natural figure the grain of wood, the form of a feather, cut at
See chapter on "Veneering."
the intersection of a large bough with the tree trunk.
properly called " span
when placed above the
Curtain Piece. Refers to shaped
eye-line.
frequently carved,
consisting of a point or knob which
CUSP. A Gothic ornamental

Credence.

for

Curl.

in

in

rails,"

rails,

detail,

is

from the intersection of two curves, a feature of trefoiled, quatrefoiled, and

See p. 241.
cinquefoiled arches.
Cylinder. In furniture this term is applied to the /'fall" of a writing table in the shape of a
quadrant or arc of a circle.
Cyma Recta. (Cyma=a wave.) A classic moulding commonly termed an "ogee" moulding.
projecting

See

p. 273.

Cyma Reversa. One

of the classic mouldings,

meaning a "reversed ogee" moulding.

See

wooden framing

fixed

P- 273-

D
Dado. Dadoing,

consisting of a decorated portion of a wall

to about 5 ft. high.

also the

round a room up

The raised portion of the floor at the end of a large dining-room or hall, of ancient
usage, and upon which the " high table " was placed.
Deeping. This refers to machine saw-cuts through the deepest part of a plant. See also

Dais.

P- 332.

An ornamental detail, consisting of small rectangular blocks with spaces between

them, usually placed in a cornice moulding, and probably originating from the projecting
ends of horizontal roof timbers also used in inlaid work, the pattern being made with
veneers of contrasting colours.
DESICCATING. Drying timber in a hot-air chamber. See chapter on "Timber."
Dentils.

GLOSSARY

360

A line joining two not adjacent angles in a four or

cross rails in a rectangular table, called " diagonal rails."

Diagonal.

more sided

figure

thus the

A line through the centre of a circle or cylindrical object.

Diameter.
Diaper. A

regular and systematic decorative arrangement of a repeating pattern in marquetry,

woven materials, and low relief carving, much used in the decorative

inlay, painting, gesso,

marquetry treatment of Louis XVI. furniture.

An ornamental detail characteristic of Early English work, consisting of a small
pyramidal repeat ornament, used chiefly as a member in mouldings.
Dolphin Hinge. So called because of its resemblance to the creature of that name, used in
conjunction with quadrant stays to secretaires. See chapter on " Brasswork."
Donkey. A marquetry cutter's implement. See illustration on p. 221.
Donkey Ear Shoot. See p. 68.
Doric. The first order of Grecian architecture, from the Dorian r ace in Ancient Greece.
Dovetail. A joint so named because of its resemblance to the tail of a dove. See examples
on Plate IX.
Dowel Plate. An iron plate about k in. thick, used to reduce dowels to any required
diameter. See also p. 65.
Draughtsman. One who prepares plans and drawings. See also chapter on " Foremen's
Work."
Drawer Lock Chisel. An instrument used chiefly for making small mortises in confined
positions, generally in connection with the bolts of drawer locks.
Drawer Slip. The grooved slip or strip to take the drawer bottom.
Drift. The direction taken by a saw away from the right line when improperly set also the
slanting direction of a nail when badly driven.
Drip Moulding. See Corona.
Drop Ornament. A split turned ornament used in Jacobean wood and stone work also a
decorative detail resembling a "husk" used in eighteenth century decoration.
DUMB Waiter. A form of dinner waggon, illustrated in chapter on " Miscellaneous Furniture."
DUST Board. A horizontal division between drawers, introduced to prevent tampering with
their contents, and also as a preventive against dust deposits.

DOG-TOOTH.

Ebeniste. A French term for cabinetmaker.

Ebenisterie. French for cabinetwork.
Ebonise. To impart to wood by means of staining and polishing a finish resembling the real
ebony wood.
ECHINUS. A Grecian moulding with carved eggs and darts as a decorative feature.
EDGE ROLL. A Gothic moulding detail, somewhat resembling a "staff bead."
Edging. The small solid square let in on the edge of a top when the face is veneered, as

a protection to the veneer.

EGG and Tongue Moulding. Used

character

Elizabethan.

largely in

also used in Georgian furniture

architectural

mouldings

of

classical

and decoration.

Relating to the Renaissance style of architecture and woodwork prevailing

during the reign of Queen Elizabeth. See also p. 251.
Ellipse. An oval figure produced by cutting a cone right across in a direction not parallel to
the base without touching the base.
See Oval.

Empire.

details.

French style of decoration based upon ancient Grecian and Egyptian forms and
"English Empire" style, a term occasionally heard, is also an interpretation of

Greek forms.

Enamel. A finish for furniture prepared by coating the wood with whiting and size
rubbed down level and then finished off with a transparent French polish also a
;

substance of the nature of glass, usually nearly opaque occasionally used

of furniture mounts.

in the

this is

fusible

decoration

GLOSSARY

361

Endive Scroll. A

detail in carving belonging to the Louis XIV. and XV. styles and also the
Chippendale period, the detail being derived from a species of leaf.
Endogenous. See chapter on "Timber."
Engraving. A term applied to the decoration of marquetry, by which a "relief" effect is
produced by engraving fine lines on the veneers, the lines afterwards rubbed with a black
composition to render them visible.
Enrichment. A term applied to ornamental detail, usually in a continuous run such as
an " enriched " moulding, &c, meaning decorated with carving, inlaying, or painting.
Entablature. An architectural term applied to the members above the column, composed
of frieze or architrave moulding and cornice moulding.
Used with reference to furniture
the term is synonymous with a " cornice."
Entasis. The swell or slight curve in a "column" to correct the hollow effect caused by
an optical illusion if quite straight.
Escritoire. A writing desk or bureau.
ESCUTCHEON. A heraldic term, meaning a shield charged with armorial bearings or bearing
other devices; also a brass fitting for a keyhole, such as "rim escutcheon," "overlay
escutcheon," and " inlaid escutcheon " cut from mother of pearl, ivory, veneer, or metal.
Etagere. A French name given to a series of shelves supported by columns. Similar to a

"

What

Not."

Exogenous. See chapter on "Timber."

Exterior Angle. A projecting or "salient"
Extrados. The outside curve of an arch.

angle.

Facing. Applied

The front view or elevation of a building.

Face Mark. A mark to indicate the prepared and
Facade.

to furniture construction

it

tested face of a piece of wood.

means a

work, used for economical reasons, such as a white

thin covering of

wood drawer

wood upon a groundfaced up " with Cuba

rail "

mahogany.
Faience. A general term applied to glazed pottery and porcelain.
Faldstool. A portable folding seat similar to a camp stool.
Fall. The term applied to the falling fronts of bureaux, secretaires, writing desks, and pianos.
Fascia. One of the classic mouldings, consisting of a broad fillet or band, a member of a
moulding also a name-plate or board above a shop front.

Faulty. Shaky, unsound,

applied to timber.

A legendary demi-god, represented by a half goat and half man, used largely as a
work of the Adam period.
decorative detail
Used
Louis XVI. decoration.
a honeycomb.
resembling the
Favas. Diaper
Feather Edge. Planing off a point or fine edge, feathering.
a curved
the form of a wreath or garland, or flowers arranged
Festoon. A decoration
form.
figured veneer, resembling the finely marked sycamore used
Fiddle Back. applied
Faun.

in

in

cells in

detail,

to

in

in

Is

in

to

violin backs.

Fiddle Board. A term used

in

shipwork to designate a board cut out

to receive the

stems

of glasses.

Filigree. Ornamental work done in gold or silver wire.

Fillet. A small "slip" or ledge used for supporting shelves also a classic moulding, consisting of a small "band " or " fascia," used as a connecting member.
Finger Joint. Composed of five tongues or fingers interlocking, used on table brackets.
See p. 52.

Finial. This term was originally applied to a foliated knob at the extremity of a Gothic
pinnacle it is, however, also used to denote a " finishing point," such as the carving above
a newel post.
;

CxLOSSARY

362

FlSH SKIN.

A material prepared from fish

Used

colour.

with silver mounts and

Fitment. Any

and dyed to a delicate green

and especially suitable in combination
The surface presents a coarse " egg shell" appearance.

for covering caskets

article

fittings.

made and

cases,

fixed to a wall or room, including panelling, chimney-pieces,

and " fitted furniture."

Fitting up. The final process of
of fixing fittings, glass,

skin, usually dressed

and clock

finishing a piece of furniture after

it is

polished, consisting

<\x.

Felt. See Clash.

A piece of wood fixed on a plane as a guide planing or grooving.

Applied to a panel which moulded, sunk, or raised, or broken up into smaller
panels.
Fixative. A preparation of white shellac and methylated
or spirits of wine, used for
Fence.

in

FIELDED.

is

spirit

" fixing " or rendering

means

permanent pencil sketches and charcoal drawings, and applied by

of a spray.

Flash. A timber term denoting large patches or "flashes" of brightly shaded figure.
Flatting. A process connected with " veneering," necessary when using buckled veneers.
See p. 215. Also saw-cutting through the thickness of planks, called "flatting."
Fleur-de-Lis. The royal insignia of France, supposed to represent a lily or iris.
Float. An instrument resembling a file. The cutting action is caused by a series of saw-like

serrations.

See

p. 64.

FLUSH. Signifies level or even with an adjoining surface

Fluting. A decorative detail, consisting of a series of semicircular furrows or channels

round a column, shaft, or leg, or on a pilaster or frieze.

Fly Rail. Side rail of a flap table, which opens to support the flap.
FOIL.
Denotes the point formed by the intersection of two circular arcs a Gothic detail
used in the " trefoil," " quatrefoil," "cinquefoil," &c.
Foliated. Pertaining to the use of "foils" decorated ornaments enriched with leaves.

Framed Work. Indicating work " framed " together

Francois Premier. A French style of furniture of
;

also " grounds " for fixing.

the time of Francis

I.,

See p. 279.
noted for its

delicate work and "cartouche" carving.

Fresco. A term applied to the al fresco painting upon a wet ground generally employed
upon walls or ceilings.
Fret. A geometric detail largely used in the Chinese and Chippendale styles, formed by
cutting or piercing thin wood or metal
also " Fretwork," and " Fretting."
Frieze. That part of a "cornice" or entablature between the frieze or "architrave" moulding
and the cornice moulding.

Gadroon. A form

of "nulling" decoration characteristic of Elizabethan and Jacobean

woodwork, resembling large reeds or inverted flutes on friezes and turning.
GALLERY. A decorated wood or metal ledge round a table top or case.
GEORGIAN. Pertaining to work executed during the reigns of the Georges, a period reaching
from 7 14 to 1820, but usually applied to the earlier years other styles being in vogue
after about the middle of the eighteenth century.
See p. 252.

Girandole.

A carved chandelier or wall candle

bracket, a feature of the eighteenth century

interior decoration.

GOBELINS.A name given

it

to the tapestry

made

in

France

after

Jean Gobelin, who introduced

into that country in the fifteenth century.

GOTHIC.

term used to describe the architecture and woodwork of the Middle Ages
Romanesque period it may be subdivided into styles as follows twelfth
thirteenth century, Early English or Lancet
fourteenth century, Decorated

following on the

century

and

fifteenth century, Perpendicular.

A legendary animal, composed of a lion's body and an eagle's head

largely used in carvings belonging to the French and Italian Renaissance.

GRIP'FIN.

and wings

GLOSSARY
Groin or Groining. The

line or rib

made by

363

or applied to the intersecting of surfaces of a

vaulted roof.

GROUND. The

rough framing fixed to brickwork previous to fixing a fitment or panelling also

the core or " groundwork " of veneered objects.
Grounding Out. A process connected with carved work. The outline is cut down with
;

gauges, and the surplus

or " groundwork."

wood removed,

leaving the design projecting above the " ground

A term usually applied to monstrous or comic figures

wood or stone work.
Guilloche. A type of ornament composed of curved and interlacing
Grotesque.

ornament

"

used as

or heads,

in

lines, usually

circular forms.

It

may be

in

composing

one or more rows.

The
of a door upon which the hinges or pivots are
An automatic table, invented by Sheraton, the centre part rising when flaps are
raised.
Hatching. Diagonal lines to show a section, which has been reduced in width.
Haunch. The projecting part of a tenon.
" semi-head,"
As
Head. The upper member or
of a door, also the top part of framing.
indicating a " semicircular" head.
Herring Boning. A veneered detail of Queen Anne work, consisting of two narrow bands
Hanging

Stile.

fixed.

stile

Harlequin.

in

rail

of striped veneer, cut obliquely and placed together, resembling herring-bone patterns in

half-timbered work.

A stone of very fine

used for sharpening instruments and tools.
302.
Joint. A dust-proof joint for doors of show-cases. See
Hopper. A kind of trough, diminished towards the bottom, used by millers, &c.
Hone.

grit,

Hook

p.

The term

generally applied to cabinet and joinery work which resembles a " hopper."
HOUSING. The process of recessing or grooving one piece of wood into another

is

also

diminished housing and " stopped housing." See chapter on "Joints," pp. 43, 44.
HUSKS. A form of drop ornament used on eighteenth century work. See pier table top,

and piano, Plate XXXVI.

Hutch. See Chest.
p. 131,

The capital of a column or pilaster which marks

upon which arches
or engrave
a
Incised Ornament. Meaning to cut

Impost.

part of a pillar

the springing of an arch

also the

rest.

in

feature of

some

sixteenth century

cabinetwork, the incessions being afterwards filled in with a coloured composition.

Ingle Nook. A recessed chimney-piece with seats on either side.
Inlaying. A general term applied to a decorative process, in which lines, strings, and bands
See p. 222. Refer also to Intarsia
or flowers are grooved or cut into a groundwork.

and Marquetry.
Meaning to insert or to inlay. A general term applied to inlaid decorative work
where the design is cut out and fitted into corresponding cavities in a ground, whereas
" Marquetry " is cut through several thicknesses of veneer and built up into a sheet before

Intarsia.

glueing to the groundwork.

the White. A trade term applied to cabinetwork in any wood before it is polished.
INTRADOS. The under or inside of a curved arch.
IONIC. The second order of Grecian architecture, the name derived from Ionia in Greece.

In

Isometric Projection. See p. 32.

Ivory Black. Made from charred bones or

ivory

a black substance used for staining.

GLOSSARY

364

JACOBEAN.
James

The
I.,

of woodwork immediately following the Elizabethan period, from

Applied to work of early Renaissance type.

style

1603.

The side of a wall opening. The upright portion of a fireplace.

specially designed to take flowers.

See
173.
saw, used for frets and general shape cutting.
JIGGER. A light treadle
Joint Stool. Belonging to early Tudor times. See Chair Chart, Plate L.
Joyner. The original term applied to mediaeval craftsmen before the separation into " cabinetJamb.

Japanning. See Lacquer.

Jardiniere. A box or pedestal

p.

fret

who made

maker," one

furniture,

fixed or architectural character.

and "joiner," whose work was

See Chapter

restricted to that of a

I.

Kerf. The cut made by a saw.

Keying. A method of strengthening mitre joints, Sec. Illustrated on p. 45.
Keystone. A wedge-shaped stone placed at the centre of an arch, serving to bind it
together a detail imitating this form was occasionally used in Elizabethan woodwork.
Kidney Table. Resembling a kidney shape in plan, introduced by Sheraton in pedestal
writing tables.
Seep. 11 1.
Knee-Part. The upper portion of a leg into which the rails tenoned.
Knuckle Joint. Resembling a finger joint. See p. 52.

Also

the French term " Lacque," resembling japanning applied to furniture, it

Japanese lacquer work and the French Vernis Martin process, used chiefly in commodes and cabinets of the Louis XV. and Chippendale periods.
Ladder Back. A term applied in the late seventeenth century to chair backs, the slats or
rails of which resemble the rungs of a ladder.
Chippendale also used them.
Lambrequin. The centre piece of drapery in a valance.
Laminate. To build up in layers also known as "three-ply," "five-ply," &c.
Lancet. A pointed arch of thirteenth century Gothic. See Gothic.

Lacquer.

refers to

A panel placed with the grain horizontal.

Resembling network. "Lattice Back" refers to a

Landscape Panel.
Lattice.

He

also used brass lattice

work

in

Sheraton chair. See p. 313.

bookcase doors, with pleated silk behind. Also " Lattice

Pattern," inlay work of the Louis XVI. period.

Lectern. An ecclesiastical reading-desk, usually made of wood, and also in brass and stone.
Linen-Fold Panels.A Tudor detail. See examples on p. 287.
Lining up. A term synonymous with thickening up a moulded frame screwed underneath a
top to strengthen it, and also to increase the thickness.
LlSTEL. An alternative term for " fillet," a flat moulding member. See Fillet.
Livery Cupboard. A name given to cupboards in which bread was kept for distribution to
the poor. There are some still in use in St Albans Abbey.
Locking Stile. That stile of a door upon which the lock is fixed also called in the case of
double doors a "meeting stile."
LOOSE Seat. A stuffed frame let into the framing of a chair but not fixed.
Loo Tables. Oval tables made for the old game of loo.
Loper. The "sliders" supporting a bureau fall, and also the "sliders" of an extending

dining-table.

GLOSSARY
LOTUS.

365

Egyptian decorative detail resembling a water-flower.

Louvred Light. A

frame with bevelled

designed for ventilation purposes, and used

slats,

in

shipwork, &c.

Low

Relief. Applied to "carving" or "gesso work," the ornamental detail of which does
not project far from the groundwork, as, for instance, carved panel centres and ceiling
decorations of the "Adam" period.

Resembling a "diamond

LOZENGE.

" lozenge

LUNETTE.

shaped

'

panels of

shape," a feature of Elizabethan work in overlays, and in

"Adam"

period.

A crescent or semicircular space or window.

M
The shelf above a fireplace.
See also
A form of inlaid work. See chapter on " Veneering," pp. 209
Intarsia and Inlaying.
low
Medallion. A plaque or medal, with figures or heads
a classic detail largely
used by the brothers R. and
Adam.
Mitre. The intersection of a moulding an angle of 45 degrees equals a "right mitre."
Mitre Block. A tool used for planing mitres (see
17); also " Mitre Shooting Board"
and " Mitre Cut" (see
a prepared block for cutting the mitre angles.
(see
the Corinthian and Composite
MODILLIONS. Enriched brackets placed under the cornice
Mantelpiece.

Marquetry.

et scq.

in

relief,

J.

p.

p. 68),

p. 67),

in

styles of architecture; also a

term applied to small brackets used as "dentils" under a

cornice moulding.

MODULE. The
unit of

tenth part of the semi-diameter of a column

measure by which other proportions are decided.

in Classic architecture,

forming a

A cavity cut into a piece of timber to receive a projection upon another piece called
a " tenon."
in woodwork also
Mosaic. Decoration composed of very small pieces of wood or stone
known as " Tonbridge ware " and mosaic bandings.
MOTHER-OF- Pearl. The hard and brilliantly coloured internal layer of shells, chiefly those of
pearl oysters. " Japanese " and " Blue Pearl " are similar substances characterised by richer
Mortise.

markings and colour.

Mottled. Meaning a speckled or variegated grain in veneer, giving a spotty effect.

v Moulding. A projecting band shaped in section, used to break the continuity of surfaces, and
for decorative effect.

See pp. 273, 274.

A general term applied to metalwork or " ormolu," used for decorating furniture
historical French furniture.
sometimes finely sculptured and chased, as
Mullet. A grooved piece of wood used for testing panel edges and drawer bottoms.
Munting or Mullion. The inside vertical divisions of doors and framing.
Mount.

in

N
Necking.

Needle

Any small band or moulding near the top of a shaft or column.

The pointed end of a needle, used for fixing light and delicate overlays and

Point.
mouldings.

A large post supporting a handrail.

A semicircular recess a wall or cabinet to receive a bust or statuette.
121.
Nested Tables. See chapter on "Tables,"
section, used on friezes and mouldings
quadrant shaped
Nulling. Turned or carved
Newel.

Niche.

in

p.

detail,

in

Jacobean work.

in

GLOSSARY

366

O
Oblique Projection.

method of graphically presenting an object in three dimensions,

and thickness. See p. 32.
Ogee. A waved moulding, Classic term " Cyma Recta." A "broken ogee" consists of an
"ogee" moulding with the continuity of its sections broken by a square or "fillet." See
height, breadth,

viz.,

P- 273-

Old Woman's Tooth. A

Oriel.

tool with a projecting tooth or iron

See

a router.

p. 9.

projecting window, frequently semi-octagonal in shape, and supported by corbels

not going right down to the ground

Ormolu. A composition of brass and

used as a Gothic feature.

to resemble gold, the material chiefly used
for casting furniture mounts ; often richly chased and " water gilt."
Ottoman. A seat without a back, of Turkish origin. In a box ottoman the seat is hinged.
Oval. A term incorrectly applied to an ellipse, really a form composed of two semi-ellipses
egg-shaped.
Overmantel. The upper portion of a chimney-piece.
Over-door. A pedimental form fixed above a doorway.
OVOLO. A Classic moulding. See p. 273.
Oxidising. A finish imparted to metalwork by treatment with acids upon a brass surface.
zinc

made

Oyster Shell. Veneering.

Parchment Panel. An
Parquetry.

See

p. 224.

alternative term for a linen-fold panel.

A process of inlaying or building up a floor of wood

also chapter

Pater/e.

first

Small

See example on p. 287.

in the form of mosaic.
See

on " Veneering."
circular or elliptic carved

ornaments applied

to

friezes,

pediments, chair

legs, &c.

Pedestal.

The

part underneath the

column

in architecture

also a stand for statuettes, &c.

also a rectangular form with a cupboard or drawers supporting the frieze

top of sideboards and various tables hence the term " pedestal table," &c.

(see p. 205)

and

Pediment.

A triangular or curved gable

placed above the cornice

in

over a portico door or window

also a similar form

various types of furniture.

A form of inlaying marble.

Small wooden plugs or studs used for concealing screw-heads. See
Pembroke Table. A table with a fixed frame and flaps on each side, supported with brackets.
PENDANT. A hanging ornament on ceilings and roofs, or to parts of furniture.
Perpendicular Style. The
of the Gothic periods, fifteenth and sixteenth centuries.
The name refers to the upright and rectilinear forms of
tracery, &c.
Pie-Crust Table. Small circular tables with the edge curved, and raised above the surface,
Pkitra Dura.

in

Pellets.

p. 74.

last

its

as in Chippendale tables.

Pier Glass. A

wall mirror

hanging between windows, usually above a semicircular or "pier

table."

Pigeon Holes.

The

divisions or

compartments

in

a stationery case for the reception of

papers, &c.

Pilaster.

A rectangular shaped column

ing about one-fourth of

Pillar.

its

An alternative term
Applied

Pillar and Claw.

made
Pitch.

with a centre pillar

fixed close to a wall or similar surface,

and

project-

width.
for,

and synonymous

with,

"column"

to circular tables of the eighteenth

and claw

or shaft.

and nineteenth centuries

feet.

Applied to the angle or "pitch" of a plane iron.

Applied to mouldings, means those mitred and

Planted.

or groundwork, not stuck on the solid.

fixed separately from the framing

GLOSSARY

367

A circular or
medallion of porcelain, Sevres, or Wedgwood, used
the
Plinth. The framed-up base or bottom part of carcase work.
PLUGGING. Consists of driving pieces of wood into the joints of brick walls for purposes of
fixing framing.
See
277.
Pocketing. A method of preparing parts of work for the reception of screws. See
Pollard. A tree that has had the boughs and top " polled or " lopped
causing a
peculiar growth at the top, which yields finely figured veneers.
Pounce. A coloured powdery substance, used by marquetry cutters to copy and mark out
designs, which they do with a pounce box.
PRESS. A dwarf cupboard or wardrobe, used for linen.
Prime Cost Estimate. Refer to Estimate.
Profile. The outline or contour of an object.

Plaque.

elliptic

in

decoration of furniture.

p.

p. 51.

off,"

"

Projection. A term given to the overhang

Isometric and Oblique Projection.

Quadrant
p.

Stay.

of

a top cornice or moulding.

A metal support used for supporting

flaps, falls,

and secretaire

See also

See

fronts.

264.

Quartered Oak. The method

of cutting a log into four quarters, and then parallel to the

"medullary rays" or "silver grain," synonymous with "wainscot oak." See description
on p. 240.
Quatrefoil. A Gothic detail consisting of four foils within a circle. See p. 240.
Quirk. The narrow groove or "sunk fillet" at the side of a bead.

Radial Bar.

A wooden bar to which a

point

and pencil are attached

in

order to strike large

curves.

Raking.

Pitched up, out of horizontal.

Ratchet Brace. A
used

Rebate.

brace or stock with a wheel and tooth attachment, which enables

corners close to a wall or

in

to

it

be

floor.

rectangular channel on the edge of a piece of

wood

or framing worked with a

rebate plane.

Recess. An alcove
Recessing. Refers

in

a room, or a niche shape in a wall.

to a

machine process, by which an

effect is

obtained similar to overlaid

fretwork, a feature of Chippendale work.

Semicircular moulded
Renaissance. Meaning
Reeding.

projections, similar to inverted flutes on turned shafts

and

pillars.

New Birth. A style of architecture and decoration

literally,
which originated in Italy in the fifteenth century.
Rep. A material used in upholstery work, of a fine cord-like texture.
Reredos. The back of an altar an altar piece or screen.
Return. This term indicates a repeat or continuation of two adjoining faces.
Riband Decoration. Carved or inlaid ornament resembling ribbon, a feature of various

eighteenth century styles.

"Riband Back." A characteristic Chippendale chair back, p. 313.

Ribbon and Stick. Ornamental detail resembling ribbon wound upon
detail.

a stick, Louis

XVI.

GLOSSARY

368

Riffler. A curved file or rasp.

Rim. An edge or projection round tray and table tops, also the circular shape underneath the
tops of shaped tables.
ROCOCO. French ornament of the Louis XIV. and XV. period, resembling shell forms and
dripping water, sometimes referred to as " pebble and splash."
Roe. Pertaining to the peculiar markings of figured veneer, a spotty arrangement or fish roe

appearance.

Rosette. An ornament or patera resembling a rose.

Rotten Stone. A soft stone used in combination with

oil in

polishing " Buhl," pearl, and

metal work.

Rule

Joint.

See chapter on "Joints."

Run Out. Applied

to a

moulding which runs out

to a point as in old work, before mitres

were used.

Sand Bag. An arrangement used

Sag.

The curvature

effected

for curved veneering.

See p. 214.
by the action of a weight or load, as in thin shelves

in a

book-

case.

An outside or projecting angle or corner.

Carved detail resembling an " escallop shell."
Scotia. A classic moulding. See
273.
Scribing. See description on
69.
Scribing Piece. A piece of stuff screwed on to the back of a
Salient Angle.
Scallop.

p.

p.

carcase,

and under the pro-

jection of the top, for the purpose of being scribed over the skirting.

Scroll Ornament. An architectural detail of convolute form, i.e., rolled together.

Scrutoire or Scriptoire. An old name given to enclosed writing cabinets or tables, from
Escritoire.

SECRETAIRE.

A piece

of furniture with falling front used for writing purposes, an escritoire

usually applied to the deep drawer which pulls forward and has a hinged front.

A representation of any object as if cut through on a line, which is indicated in

plans and working drawings by blue section lines.
Serpentine. A term applied to various articles of furniture, such as "serpentine sideboard,"

SECTION.

which the front lines in plan consist of a serpentine or curved shape.

SETTEE. A light seat with low back and arms, sometimes stuffed.
SETTING Out. The process of preparing rods and working drawings.
SETTLE. An old form of seat with ends and a back.
in

Shaded Marquetry. A

process of shading, effected with

hot

sand.

See chapter on

" Veneering."

SHOW Wood. Applied

to stuffed chairs with parts of the frame showing.

kind of leather used for lining table tops, and made from split sheepskin.
Slats. Horizontal rails in a chair back.
Sliders. Flaps or shelves, which pull or slide out of a carcase. See also Lopers.
Slot Screwing. A method of fixing whereby the screw heads are not seen. See p. 277.
Soclk. A plain block acting as a plinth or pedestal to a statuette.
Sofa Table. A table with flaps at the ends, designed by Sheraton.
Soffit. The under side of an opening, i.e., head lining in a wall also the under side of wide
" corona " mouldings.
Sole. The bottom or face of a plane.
SPADE TOE. A characteristic finish at the bottom of tapered legs in the eighteenth century
styles, the outline resembling a spade in shape.
Spandrel or SPANDRIL. The triangular space left between one side of the curve of an arch
and the sides of a rectangle enclosing it. Span-rail, a perversion of the above, is a term

Skiver.

An

inferior

applied to a curved

rail

between two uprights.

See Dresser on

p. 97.

GLOSSARY

A written statement

Specification.
be executed.

Spindle. A

369

giving a minute description and particulars of work to

small turned pillar used in galleries

also applied to a

moulding machine.

An early form of piano.

Spiral Turning. A special process of turned work on the principle of Archimedes' screw,
characteristic of chair and table legs of the seventeenth century.
Splat or Splad. The upright and wide
a chair back, usually applied to chairs of the
Queen Anne period also called " Banister when narrow.
Splay. A slope, or bevel, of unequal depth or width.
Spinet.

rail in
"

Split Handles. Brass drop handles of the Queen Anne period, resembling "split " turning,
and usually cast hollow.
Sprung Moulding. A term applied to a curved moulding also a thin moulded piece of
wood used for cornices, and attached to blocks or brackets fixed to the cornice frame.
Spoon Back. A term applied to Queen Anne chair backs, which, when viewed from the side,
resemble the curve in a spoon, and fit into the figure.
Squab. A loose cushion seat for a chair or couch.
Stacking. Refers to seasoning of timber the planks or balks are "stacked" with spaces in
between to allow the free access of air.
Staff Bead. Synonymous with return bead, worked upon a salient angle with a quirk upon
each side.
Stall. The seat for an ecclesiastical dignitary in a church also the choir stalls.
Standard. Applied to furniture, means the upright supports of a toilet glass frame. For

timber, see

p.

333.
iron contrivance or box containing steam for purposes of heating glue,

Steam Chest. An

cauls for veneering, and bending wood.

The
Strapwork.
Stile.

outside vertical

members

of a

door or piece of framing.

Carved detail derived from bands frequently interlacing, used

of furniture, especially
the Elizabethan and Jacobean periods.
Stub Tenon. A short tenon.

in

the decoration

in

STUCCO.

A fine plaster-like substance used for internal decorations, chiefly of the Adam period.

Stuck Moulding. Any moulding worked upon

Stud.

the solid,

i.e.,

stiles

and

rails

of a door.

A small metal object, with projecting head part, used for supporting adjustable shelves.

See

p. 143.

Stuff-over. Applied to chairs stuffed all over.

Style. Applied to furniture and decoration, means " period" work, or the delineation of certain
characteristic proportions and forms in vogue during a specific period, or the manner of a
certain master or designer, i.e., Sheraton and Adam styles.
Sunk Panel. A recessed form, used in pilasters.
Surbase. In architecture the group of mouldings at the top of the pedestal in furniture, a
moulded part between the cornice and plinth, such as the table part.
Swag. A form of swinging or suspended ornament, usually drapery or festoons of flowers,

characteristic of

many

styles.

Swan-neck. Applied to the curved pediments on Chippendale cabinets.

Sweep. An alternative term for curve, usually applied to a symmetrical freehand
Swivel Hook. A reversible pivoted hook fixed in wardrobes.

curve.

Tall-Boy.

A double chest of drawers, one carcase above another.

Tambour. A flexible shutter or fall, made by glueing thin strips

Tang. The end of a chisel or tool which enters the handle.

of

wood

to a linen backing.

Taper.

diminishing form characteristic of the eighteenth century legs, usually with a

" spade toe."

Template.
Terminal.
24

A pattern made of thin wood or metal.

The finish to a newel or standard,

GLOSSARY

37 o

Tern Feet. Tern meaning

three, applied to

Chippendale and Louis XV. work.

Feet consist-

ing of a three scroll arrangement.

Tester. The flat covering at the top of a bed, in the form of a canopy supported by posts
when only at the head it is a half tester.
Thicknessing up. The process of apparently increasing the thickness of a top by glueing a
;

narrow margin of wood on the under side.

Three- Ply. See Laminate.
Thumb Plane. Small planes.
A process of turning by which a square moulded
Til U km inc..
Toat. A plane handle.

Toothing.

Effected

effect

is

See

obtained.

p. 272.

See

with a toothing plane, to assist the cohesion of two surfaces.

descriptions on p. 212.

Tortoise Shell. Used in "Buhl" work and inlaying; a gilt or vermilion groundwork is
prepared to add lustre to the shell.
Torus. A Classic moulding, resembling a large bead.
Tracery. Ornamental geometrical divisions and overlays in Gothic work, also synonymous
fretwork in Chippendale work, also pierced brass and metal lattice work in Sheraton

doors used

in

combination with

silk

backing.

Trammel. An instrument used for describing ellipses. See illustration on

Transverse Section. A cross section horizontal, a sectional plan.
Traversing. The process of cross planing wide surfaces. See p. 60.

p. 28.

Trefoil. A Gothic detail consisting of three foils, " trefoliated." See p. 240.
TREILLAGE. A form of trellis work, made with laths of wood, and used for floral decoration.

Trenching. Grooving.
Trestle Table. The original form

of table, consisting of boards placed

upon

trestles

now

used for portable purposes.

Triptych.

An

altar

piece

made

of three

parts

centre,

and two

side

compartments

folding over the centre.

A classic moulding, consisting of a complex hollow curve.

Rose. A conventional carved rendering of a rose characteristic of early Tudor work.
See example on p. 281.

TROCHILUS.

Tudor

Tuscan.

One of the five architectural orders, a variety of the " Doric."

u

Under-cut. A term

also termed
applied to mouldings of the Louis XIV. and XV. periods
"Sloper Nose"; also undercut carving; a feature of Grinling Gibbons' work; leaving
portions of the work separate from the ground.
Upsett Fibre. Caused by unskilled felling, whereby the fibres are crushed. See chapter
on "Timber."
Urn. A vase-shaped vessel, used as turned detail or ornaments also urns and knife cases
standing upon a pedestal and characteristic of the Adam period.
;

Valance. A fringe of drapery hanging from a cornice or bed rail.

Vaulting. Arched work in roofs and ceilings.
\ ENEER.
Thin sheets of wood, the thickness ranging from ,V to A of an inch, termed
" knife " and " saw cut."
Vernis Martin. A French process of "Lacquer" or "Lacque" work invented by Vernis

Martin, born in 1706.

\

iiiULE.

An antechamber between

the hall

and outer doors.

GLOSSARY

3?f

Vignette. Gothic detail, running ornament of fine leaves and tendrils.

Volute. A spiral scroll used in Ionic, Corinthian, and Composite capitals.
Voider. An old name for a butler's tray.

w
Wainscot.

Applied to timber, means

oak cut specially to show the "silver grain." "Wainsynonymous with "Dadoing"; the panelling about five feet high round a
See chapter on "Timber," p. 332.

scoting"

room.

Warping.

is

The effect produced on timber due to unequal shrinkage also termed " winding."
Gilding. The gilding of ormolu mounts by covering them with a thin deposit
of gold and mercury, the latter being then volatilised.
Water Leaf. An ornamental detail resembling an elongated laurel leaf used chiefly in
Hepplewhite and Sheraton work.
Wave Moulding. Resembling a wave in outline, executed chiefly in ebony and ivory, or
stained sycamore.
See examples on p. 224.
;

Water

Wax

Inlaying. A

species of incised work,

Working Drawing. A
by red section

lines,

and

(abbreviated form,
" worked " or " planed."
tier of

with coloured wax substances.

an object with sections.

Plans indicated

vertical sections with blue.

Wrought

What-Not. A

filled in

full-sized representation of

"

Wrot

").

term

used by architects,

shelves supported by turned posts.

Yorkshire Dresser. A form

synonymous

with

See Etagere.

of dresser with a low back,

made

in

oak or

deal,

and peculiar

to Yorkshire.

Terms applied
those subjects.

to timber, tools,

and construction

will

be found

in the

chapters dealing with

Short

of Books, specially recommended for

HISTORIC FURNITURE, WOODWORK, AND

List

the Study of

Decoration, with some works on Timber.

The folloiving List

merely intended to mention the Books that seem most useful for

is

Reference in the various Styles,

and many have

been chosen on account of the large

Plates given in them.

GENERAL WORKS ON FURNITURE.

Benn

Style in Furniture.

(R. Davis).

Thick 8vo.

Drawings.

Benn

(N.

and Shapland

P.)

With numerous examples from

1904.

(H.

The Nation's Treasures.

P.).

Measured Drawings of the old Furniture in the V. and A. Museum, comprising 48 full-page Plates
and many Illustrations of Furniture drawn to scale. 410. London.

Burgess

(F. W.).
Antique Furniture.
400 pages of Text. London, 1915. Large 8vo.

Gregory
tions

The Furniture Collector.

(E. W.).

of typical

With

of Furniture from

pieces

Public and

Private

126

and

Illustrations

Containing 55

Illustra2nd Edition. 8vo.

Collections.

London.

Haydon (Arthur).

Chats on Old Furniture.

of Text and 109 Illustrations, also Bibliography.

Litchfield

(F.).
Times.

Illustrated History of Furniture from

to the Present

Litchfield

Sixth Edition.

4to.

How

Collect

to

(F.).
170 pages and 75 Illustrations.

191 1;
;

Old

Furniture.

Small 8vo.

Pollen
Vol.

French

Roe

Wood

Furniture under Louis

Engravings.

Large 8vo.

Revised by T. A. Lehfeldt.

(Fred).

and

Furniture

in

I.

XVI. and the Empire,

1920.

400 pp.

Illustrated

by

1874.

Ancient and Modern Furniture and Woodwork.

H.).

(J.
I.

Tudor

Vol.

The Periods of Queen Anne, 1920; Vol. III. Chippendale and his
The Sheraton Period, 1919; Vol. V. French Furniture under Louis XV.

Pollen (J. Hungerford).

Ancient and Modern
SOUTH KENSINGTON MUSEUM. With an Historical Introduction.
Plates and

Containing

London, 1920.

8vo, cloth.

Vol. II.
Vol. IV.

School, 1919
1919 Vol. VI.
;

the Earliest

1907.

Little Books about Old Furniture.

Stuart,

Containing 283 pages

London, 191 7.

8vo.

With

Illustrations.

8vo.

1908.

A History of Oak Furniture.

Drawings and Photographs.

44 pages of Text.

4to.

Illustrated

with

76

London, 1920.

ENGLISH FURNITURE OF ALL PERIODSCescinsky

English

(H.).

Containing 1,200 Illustrations.

Fenn

and Wyllie

Furniture of the

XVIIIth

Century.

3 vols., 4to.

Old English

(F.)
(B.).
Furniture. Containing
pages and 94 Plates of examples from Tudor times to the XVIIIth Century. 8vo.

Howard
A

(F. E.)

and Crossley

(F.

H.).

90

English Church Woodwork.

English Gothic Craftsmanship down to the middle of the XVIth Century.

Illustrating,
in a Series of over 325 examples from Photographs specially taken, the development of English
Church Furniture and Craftsmanship, together with many measured drawings of details. 4to. 1917.

Study

in

Macquoid

(Percy).

numerous

History

of

English

Furniture.

With

Vol. I.
The Age of Oak, 1500- 1660 (Tudor,
1901-9.
4 Volumes, folio.
Elizabethan, and Jacobean); Vol. II.
The Age of Walnut, 1660-1720 (Restoration and Dutch
Influence); Vol. III.
The Age of Mahogany, 1720-1770 (including the Chippendale School);
Vol. IV.
The Age of Satinwood, 1770-1820 (including the work of Hepplewhite, Sheraton,
Illustrations.

Adam, &c).

LIST OF

Percival

BOOKS

373

Old English Furniture and

(M.).

From

the Restoration to the Regency.

London, 1920.

Surroundings.

its

62 full-page Plates, 44 Figures.

203 pages.

4to, cloth.

Strange (T. A.). English Furniture, Decoration and Woodwork,

AND THE ALLIED ARTS, DURING THE LAST HALF OF THE XVIIth, THE
WHOLE OF THE XVIIIth, AND THE EARLY PART OF THE XlXth CENTURIES.
Demy

Containing 3,500 Illustrations.

Tanner (Henry).
AND

XVIIth,

quarto.

English

London.

Interior

Woodwork

the XVIth,

of

CENTURIES.

XVIIIth

Containing 50 Plates of Drawings to scale, illustrating

Chimney-Pieces, Panelling, Staircases, Doors, &c, with descriptive Text. Folio.
1902.

ENGLISH

WORK ELIZABETHAN AND

JACOBEAN.

Jourdain (Margaret). English Decoration and Furniture of the

TUDOR, ELIZABETHAN, AND EARLY STUART PERIODS (1500-1660). Containing
200 pages, with over 250 Illustrations reproduced from Photographs and Drawings.

Gotch

Folio.

Architecture of the Renaissance

F.S.A.

A.),

(J.

land.

Illustrated from Buildings erected between 1560 and 1635, with Text.
Plates, with 180 Text Illustrations.
2 vols., folio.
1891-94.

England

Nash's Mansions of

in

the Olden Time.

in

1922.

Eng-

Containing 145

Containing

104

and Exterior Views, reproduced in Lithography, of the Finest Houses of the Elizabethan and
Jacobean Times. 4 vols. folio.
Small edition. 4 vols., 4to.
1839-42.
1869.
Interior

Hurrell

W.).

(J.

Drawings, with some examples of Woodwork, Plaster, &c.

Folio.

Plates.

Old Oak English Furniture.

Series of

no

Containing

Measured

Photo-lithographic

1900.

Sanders (W. Bliss). Examples of Carved Oak Woodwork of the

XVIth AND XVIIth CENTURIES. With 25 Plates of Drawings. Folio. 1883.
Half-Timbered Houses and Carved Oakwork
Sanders (W. B.).
OF THE XVIth AND XVIIth CENTURIES. With 30 full page Plates. Folio. 1894.
Marshall (A.). Specimens of Antique Carved Furniture and
WOODWORK. Measured and Drawn. With 50 Photo-lithographic Plates of Jacobean Work,
including a few Photographs.

Shaw

(Henry).

Plates, chiefly of English examples.

Small

CENTURIES.

ENGLISH
Belcher
1

Heaton

IN

Ancient Furniture.

Scottish

Woodwork

Containing ioo Lithographic Plates, with

and M.

AND

XVIIth

of the XVIth and

Folio.

details.

XVIIIth

1898.

CENTURIES.

Later Renaissance Archi-

Macartney.

E.

ENGLAND.

Engraved

74

4to.

WORK LATE

(J.)

tecture
folio.

Architect.

W.),

(J.

XVIIth

1886.

Folio.

Specimens of

Containing 170 Plates, with 153 Illustrations in the Text.

2 vols.,

90 1.
(J.

Furniture and Decoration in England

Aldam).
XVIIIth CENTURY. 200 folio Plates, reproduced in facsimile from the works of

DURING THE

Eighteenth-Century Designers, with Descriptive Notes.

Simon

(Constance).
XVIIIth CENTURY. An

English

Designers

Historical Account, with Photographic Plates.

Robert Adam and

Swarbrick (John).

2 vols, in 4, large folio.

Furniture

8vo.

his Brothers.

of

the

1904.

An

Illustrated

Influence on English Architecture, Decoration, and Furniture.

Containing 300 pages, with over 200 Illustrations of Architecture and Interior Decoration, Chimney4to.
1916.
Pieces, Ceilings, Doors, Furniture, &c.

Account of

Lenygon

their Lives,

Work, and

(Francis).

taining 300 pages, with

Folio.
1914.
Colours.

Lenygon

(Francis).

taining 300 pages with

Folio.
1914.
Colours.

Decoration

in

England from

over 350 Illustrations from special

Furniture

in

England from

over 400 Illustrations from special

1660-1770.

Con-

Photographs, together with four in

Photographs,

1660-1760.
together

with

Confive

in

Jourdain (Margaret). English Decoration and Furniture of the

LATER XVIIIth CENTURY (1750-1820). Containing 272 pages and over 350 Illustrations from
Photographs and Drawings, together with 8 Plates reproduced by the Collotype Process.

Folio.

922.

BOOKS

LIST OF

374

WORKS ON FURNITURE PUBLISHED DURING THE

CENTURY.

XVIIIth

The

Works
105 Plates.

Edition.

Gentleman

and

and

Cabinetmaker

Hepplewhite's

Adam.

James

Cabinetmaker's

3rd Edition, containing 200 Plates.

1754.

and

Robert

of

1778-1822.

The

Chippendale's
1st

Architecture

in

3 vols., folio.

taining 300 Designs on 12S Plates.

Small

Folio.

Director.

1762.

Upholsterer's

Guide.

Con-

1794.

folio.

(Thomas).
The Cabinetmaker's and Upholsterer's
DRAWING-BOOK. With many Engraved Plates of Designs. 4to. 1793-4.

Sheraton

Ince and Mayhew.

The Universal System
FURNITURE. Designs after the manner of Chippendale. Engraved

Household

of
Plates.

London,

Folio.

undated (probably about 1760).

The Cabinetmaker's London Book of

of Cabinetmakers.

Designs by

By

Prices.

Shearer, A. Hepplewhite, and

the London Society

W. Casement. Engraved

London, 1793.

Quarto.

Plates.

Thomas

Upwards of One Hundred New and Genteel Designs.

Being all
the most approved Patterns of Household Furniture.
By a Society of Upholsterers, Cabinetmakers,
&c.
8vo.
3 Parts, containing 120 Plates of Designs in the Chippendale Style.
N.D. [about 1780].

FOREIGN WORKS ON FURNITURE.

Dictionary

Viollet-Le-Duc's

French

of

(Dictionnaire du Mobilier francais de PEpoque

nearly 2,400 Plates and Woodcuts.
6 vols., 8vo.

Molinier (E.).
DECORATION
Vol.

II.

Text.

de

la

XVTIth

(Le

and XVIIIth

Francais).
Centuries.

2 vols.,

folio.

I.The Middle Ages and Early Renaissance;

With many Photogravure Plates and Drawings in the

(Les Meubles

N.D.

Paris.

200 Engraved Plates of Decorative

French

LOUIS

Folio.

Details.

from

Decoration

(E.).
Interior
XIII. (La Renaissance Decorations Interieures).

I.

details.

to Louis
2 vols., small

100

Engraved

Francis
Plates,

I.

to

with Mouldings

Paris.

Rowe

(Eleanor).
MUSEUMS. Gothic

press.

French Furniture and Interior

Vol.

Paris, 1867.

Rouyer
and

and 3,650

Paris.

Containing 100 Photogravure Plates, with a short Introduction and

XVI. (L'Art Architectural en Fiance).

folio.

vols., large 4to.

French Decorative Art from Francis

(E.).

(Dictionnaire

Illustrated by 256 Plates

French XVIIIth Century Furniture

(E.).
d'Art du Mobilier National).
Descriptions.

Containing

Paris (about 1900).

2 vols., folio.

Williamson

Rouyer

History of
-Mobilier

(Mediaeval)

Renaissance).

Paris.

Henry Havard).

Decoration.
Par
in the 5,600 pages of Text.
et

la

Furniture and Decoration

Havard's Dictionary of
de PAmeublement
Wood Engravings

Furniture

Carlovingienne a

French Wood Carvings

to

XVIIIth Century.

from

the National

54 Plates reproduced from Photographs, and Letter-

1896.

Percier and Fontaine.

Designs for Interior Decorations and
FURNITURE IN THE EMPIRE STVLE (Decorations Interieures). 100 Outline Engraved
Plates.

Roeper

Small

(A.)

folio.

and

Paris, 1812.

H. Bosch.

German Furniture of all

the Middle Ages to the End of the XVIIIth Century

Plates, comprising about So Examples.
4to.
Munich.

Heftner-Alteneck
bii

(J.

H.)

Details

and Renaissance (Ornumente der

Munich.
Plates.
4to.

Mediaeval

(Mobel

of

Holtz-sculptur).

aller

Styles, from

Slilarten).

German

50 Collotype

Woodcarving,

With many Examples on Photo-

BOOKS

LIST OF

Dutch

Singleton (Esther).
Thick Svo.

Plates.

Wytsman
the

the

A Collection

(P.).

(L.

Centuries.

2 vols, quarto.

With

57

Critical Descriptions

Colonists.

Small

Plates.

folio.

Brussels, 1900.

Handbook

America.

in

of

Containing 300 Photographic Illustrations of Typical

1902.

The Furniture of Our Forefathers.

Singleton (Esther).
New

Furniture.

of Old Belgian Interiors, Chiefly of

90 Photographic

Colonial Furniture

V.).

Old Furniture introduced by the

Examples.

Flemish

1907.

XVIth and XVIIth

Lockwood

and

375

by Russell Sturgis.

With

Containing 600 pages of Text and 300 Illustrations.

8vo.

York.

Nutting (Wallace). Furniture of the Pilgrim Century.

numerous Plates from Photographs,

Eberlein

Examples.

The

and M'Clure

AND BUENO

(R.)

Book of Period

in.,

Spanish

Interiors and

FURNITURE.

Containing numerous Plates of Photographs and Drawings.

Folio.
New York.

(G. L.).

(Muebles

containing 60 Photographic Plates and a

Byne (Arthur) and Stapley (Mildred).

Hunter

Philadelphia.

OLD SPANISH FURNITURE

(L. P.).

Antiquos Espanoles). A Portfolio, Size 10 by 13

brief Spanish Text.
Barcelona.

Portfolio.

Containing

Boston.

4to.

(A.).
Practical
Containing 250 Illustrations and 371 pages of Text.
Quarto.

(H. D.)

FURNITURE.

DOMENECH

illustrating in all 1,000

Italian Furniture and Interiors.

Four parts

in

one

Collection of

200 full-page Plates, from Photographs of Italian Interiors and Furniture both Mediaeval and
Folio, Portfolio.
New York.
Renaissance.

PRACTICAL BOOKS ON FURNITURE.

Wells (Percy

Small

Furniture

for
A.).
Houses. Containing 56 Plates
London,
reproduced from Photographs and Working Drawings, and 13 Diagrams in the Text. 4to.
1920.

Rudd

(J.

Practical Cabinetmaking and Draughting.

H.).

Containing a large number of Diagrams and Working Drawings by the Author.

172 pages.
4to.

London,

1912.

Bowers

(R.
With 1,082

S.),

Bovingdon

(J.),

and Others.

Furniture-Making.

showing Designs, Working Drawings, and Complete Details of 170 pieces

Svo.
London, 1920.
of Furniture, with Practical Information on their Construction.
Illustrations

WORKS ON TIMBERS.
Howard

(A.

L.).

A Manual

of the Timbers of the World.

Their

To which is appended an Account by S. Fitzgerald of the Artificial

Characteristics and Uses.
London, 1920.
Seasoning of Timber. With 100 Illustrations. 446 pages. Svo.

Wallis-Tayler

(A.

J.).

The Preservation of Wood.

descriptive
Wood.

Treatise on the Processes and on the Mechanical Appliances used for the Preservation of
With 119 Illustrations. 344 pages. 8vo. London.

The

Timbers

Herbert Stone.

of

Commerce

and

With 186 Photomicrographs.

their
Large 8vo.

Identification.

By

INDEX
Balloon clock case, 188-189
Baltic oak, 334

Acacia wood, 351-352

Action of back irons, 6
Adam, R. and J., brasswork, 269
details of card table, 132

mouldings, 274
pier table, Plate xxxi.

sideboard, 151-152
style of,

254

building up, 219

inlaying, 218-219
types of, 218

Bareface tenon, 41
Barefaced tongued joint, 47-48

methods of construction, buildup bars, and mitreing mouldings, 79

doors,

Base, 35

mouldings, 273-274

fitting, 55

American beech, 342

Basil, 7

Basswood, 345
Bastard teak, 344
Battens chased into a

birch, 343

wall, 277
for wall grounds, 277
size of, 333

maple, 343

oaks, 335
poplar, 345
spruce, 346
walnut, 338

Angelique wood, 338

Angle bridle joint, 39
of dovetails, 66

Angles of plane irons,

Annual

saws, 271, Plate xlii.

Bandings, 217

Barred door moulds, 274

Adriatic oak, 335

African mahogany, 337
oak, 336

walnut, 339

(South) woods, 353

Allowances for working and

Almery, description of, 2
Amboyna wood, 21

Band cramps, 316

Battle Abbey, 259

Bead and butt joints, 47
flush slipping, 82
,,

rebate joint, 47

reel on panelling, 284

,,

planes, 10
,,

Beaded matching, 47
7

panels, 80

,,

Beads, types

rings, 327

Annulets, 275
Apple wood, 342
Application of bending to curved work, 85
Apprenticeship, 2
Arm-chairs, 318
Armoire, description of, 2
Arrangement and details of panelling, 281
of grounds for panelled rooms,

279
Ash, various, 356
Astragal, 274
shutting joint, 49, 156
\,
Audley End House, 259
Austrian oak, 335
Automatic locking action, 298
Ayers' patent rack (for settees), 325

Beam

of,

274

ceilings, preparation of, for panelling,

278

Bean

tree,

Bedstead

351-352

186
Bedsteads, 184-188
Beech, varieties of, 342, 350-351
fittings,

Bench, 16-17
Bending curved ends, 85
lines round a heated bar, 106

Bethnal Green Museum, 259

Bevel, rebated joints, 49-50

sliding, 15

Bevelled joints, 38
work, development
,,

B
Back

irons, 6

saws, 10- 1

Balk, definition

of,

33^

of,

244-245

Birch, various, 343, 349

Bismarck plane, 9
Bits, centre,
13-14; countersinks, 13-14;
dowel, 13-14 drills, 15
expanding, 13gimlet or Swiss, 13-14 holder, 15
14
nose, 13-14; rimers, 15; shell, 13-14;
spoon or spin, 13-14 ; turnscrew, 13-14;
twist or Jennings, 13-14
types of, 13-14
;

INDEX

378

Cape walnut, 353

Blackbutt, 351

Blood wood, 352

Carcase, construction

Boards, general terms and sizes

Bog oak, 334
Bolted mitreing, 45
Bolts, various, 262
Bombe work, 194
Bookcase, bureau, 146-147

of,

233

dwarf, 147-148
inlaid, 144-145
revolving, 200-201
with curved doors, 141-142

,,
,,

Boring

tools, 13

Boule, Andre, 255

Box saw, 10
Box for inlaying lines, 220
Brace, English and American patterns, 13
Braced drawing board, 22
mitres, 46
,,
Bracket clocks, construction of, 190
cornices, 280, 294

Bradawls, 15

Bradding and pinning, 73

Brass mouldings, methods of fixing, 136
Brasswork, requisition for, 230 Chapter on,
;

260
Brazilwood, 34S
Bridle joints, 39-40
Broad leaf trees, 426
Bruises, raising, 74
Buhl work, 221
Building up bandings, 219
galleries, 86

shaped door heads, 156

Bullnose plane, 7
Bunya-bunya wood, 350
Bureau, 127
bookcase, 146
,,
Burrs in veneer, 21
as a defect, 329

Butt joints, 47
Butted hinged joint, 49
Butternut, 339
XII., p.

Buttoning, methods

of, 51

Buttonwood, 343

Cabinet, coromandel, Plate XIX.

Cabinetmaker's kit of tools, 18
Cabinetmaking, ancient and modern, 1
Cabriole leg, setting-out and shaping, 321
Caffiere, .Martin,

18

Calamander wood, 340

Camber in shipwork, 25S

Camphor wood, 348
Camwood, 348
Canadian

ash, 342
red pine, 347

rock elm, 344

Caoba wood, 337
,,

Cap irons, 6
Cape box, 353

cedar, 353
ebony, 353

of, 74,

77

definition of, 74, 140

setting-out, 75, 140

work, Chapter VII., 440 ei seq.

Carcases, circular, 84
Care of tools, 21
Carlin, Martin,
18
Cash desk, 302, Plate XLIX.
Cast in timber, 35
Castors, 162, 262
Catches, bullet and thumb, 171, 262
Cedars, various, 347
Ceilings, beam, 278
framed, 278

preparation of, for panelling, 278

Celery-top pine, 350

Cellarets, 149
Centre-hinged bureau fall, 49
Centre hinges, fixing, 266, 277
types of, 266
,,
Centre-hung door, 49
Chair backs, types of Chippendale, Hepplewhite, Jacobean, Queen Anne, Sheraton,
313 eighteenth century, 318
Chair chart, sizes and characteristics of
chairs and seats of different periods,
1

double sheet, 43
Chair-making, Chapter XVI., 312 connecting
segments, 317; cramping, 316; cutting
sweeps, 314; making loose seats, 319;
marking out curved arms, 317 mortising leg on saddle, 317
practice of, 315
shaping in leg-vice, 315
Chairs, identification of, 314
Chamfer, cusping, 240
;

planes, 10

,,

Chamfers, 35
Chariot piane, 7-9
Chatsworth House, 259
Chatter in planes, 21
Cheese cupboard, 2
Cherrywood, 341
Chesterfield settee, 323
Chestnut, 343
Chests, 2
of drawers, 30, 1 40-141

China cabinets, 164-167, 257

mahogany, Plate XXII.
,,

Chippendale, T., bedsteads, 186 brasswork,

269; chair backs, 313; chair, Plate xxix.
commode, 192-193; mouldings, 274;
pedestal, 204
pillar table, 139
screens,
silver table, 128
style of, 252 ;
195
tables, 132-138
writing table, 119
;

Chisels, various, 12

Chucks, types of, 271

Cinquefoil, 240
Cipriani, painted work by, 254
Circular dome, setting out and construction
of,

248

dumb

waiter, 208
pedestals, 215
saw, Plate XXIII.

Cistern dovetailing, 66
,,
,,

INDEX
Clamping, 38
Claydon House, 259

379

Cutting tenons, 57
Cylinder fall movements, 264-265

Clearing out stub mortises, 64

writing tables,

Cleating, 51
Clocks, various, 189, 191-192

10

Cypress wood, 347

Coachwood, 352
Cocked beads, 107
Cocus wood, 340

Dado mountings,

Cofferers, Guild of, 2

Coffers, 2

Colonial Georgian

281
Deals, red, yellow, white, 333, 346

Room, 284

sizes of, 333

Decorative metalwork, 267

Defects in timber, 328

mahogany, 343
timbers, 348-353

Colouring a drawing, 25

Dentils, 35
Depth router, use

Colours, preparation of, 25

Commercial sizes of timber, 333
Compass planes, 9
saw, 10

Coniferous woods, 327

Connecting leg to circular riin, 105
Construction of Gothic tracery, 241
plinths, 76

Conversion of timber, 331-332

Convexity of cutting edges, 59

Coopered

joints, 38

Copeland, H., 254

Corner cabinets, 32, 197-198
Cornices, bracket, 294
building up and fixing, 35, 280
coved, 285

Coromandel wood, 340

Countersinks, 13-14
Coves, 215
Cramp rack supports for bench, use
Cramping joints, 62
Cramps, various, 17, 316
Cross banding, 216

of,

cutting, 57

Crunden,

J.,

255

Cuba mahogany, 336

Cudgerie wood, 352
Cup shakes in timber, 328-329
Cupboard turns, 263
Curio tables 122-124

Curved doors, 87
drawer fronts, 84
,,
lines, measurement

243

of,

rims, 86
panelling, 84-85, 87
work circular carcases, 83
glass frames, 175

cylinders, 1 14

,,

,,

,,

development of, 242

kidney tables, 10-1 1
1

laminating, 85
saddle for, 215
segmental building, 83
table rims, 83

Dowell

drawer

template
62

for,

66

rounders, 65

Dowelled

joints, 37, 62, 65

Dowelling, use of stop gauge, 65

Drawer

templates, 62, 65

,,

duties, 54

fronts, curved, 84

Drawers, chests

,,

of, 30, 139,

160

methods of making,

81
slipping, 82
dining room chairs, 319

229

sides, 81

fitting,

Drawing and
of, 55,

80

(housed), 67
proportions of, 66
setting out, 66

Draughtsman's

Cusping, 240
Cutting a diminished dovetail, 75
a groove for framing, 295

actions, 6

and cap iron, 6

edge shapes, 58
lists, arrangement

for

,,

,,

60

of,

Desiccating, 331
Design, principles of, 34
Details for cornice, &c, 285
of Colonial Georgian room, 285, Plate
,,
XLIV.
museum print stand, 309
,,

panelling, 281-283, 2 8
Development of curved surfaces, 242
pillar or
vase shape for

marquetry, 243
room with measurements

and angles, 228

splayed veneers, 242

Diapers, cutting veneers for, 144

Dining-table clips, 89
screws, 89

tables, Plate xv, 91, 93, 94

Dinner waggon, 197, 199

Diseases in timber, 329
Dividing a circle, 25
fluted pilasters, 26
,,
Doatiness in timber, 329
Domes, construction of, 246-248
Donkey ear shoot, 68
Doors, example and construction of, 78-79
Double mortise and tenon, 41
rebate and bead, 48

tongued mitre joint, 48

,,
Dovetail cleating, 51
keying, 51

Dovetailing, various methods of, 43

Dovetails, angles of, 66
for carcase work, 75

boards,

&c, 22

INDEX

3 8o

Drawing, necessity

for,

22

Flaps for tables, 103

parallel lines with set squares, 24

Dressers, designs

for,

96-97

268-270

draw

style, 251

xxm.

Float, use of, 64

Flush doors, 80
Fluted corners, 47
Foliating, 240

Foremen's work, 226-229

Forked turnscrews, 12
Four-poster bedstead, 168-187
Foxiness in timber, 329
Foxtail wedging, 41
Framed ceilings, 278
French curves, use of, 24
handles, 268

panelling, 294

styles, 255

tables, 100- 101

Galleries, building up, 86

Elm, 344

use in old work, 269

style,

255
Enclosed washstands, 307-308
End grain veneering, 215
of plane showing rays, 5
Endogenous trees, 326
Enlargement and reduction of mouldings,
234-237
Envelope card table, 132
Equipment of drawing office, 231
Escutcheons, 270
Estimate, specimen of factory, 223
Estimating, method of, 232
Evergreen beech, 351
Exogenous trees, 326

Gauges,

220
margin for cornices,
line,

marking,

cutting,

"]"]

mortise,

stop for dowels, 62

,,

Geometry, Chapter in., p. 25, and

Georgian fireplace, 291-292

of, 60
Facing-up cornice frames, yj
Factory estimate, 233

style, 252

Gillow, R., 253

Gimlets, 15
Glass backs, types of, 158
paper, grades of, 72

Glue, manufacture and preparation

various, 342-345

20

Glued joints, 37
Glueing rubbed joints, 62
up carcase, 76

framing

in

long lengths, 279

details, 238-239, 241

panelling, 286-287
styles,

250

Gouthiere, 255

oak, 327
veneers, 21

Files, various shapes and cuts, 17

Fillister, 10
in

Grandfather clocks, design and construction

joint, 52
Fireplaces, 289-292

of, 191-192
Grinding, 7
Grinling Gibbons, 252, 259, 291
Grounds for fixtures, 277-278
Guar wood, 352

Fitment, 284

Gum

Finger

tree, 351

Fitting, allowances for, 55

up a centre part for panelled door,

79

door frame, 79
Fixing a drawing, 24

and panelling, 278

kneehole brackets, methods of,
rule joint stay, method of, 204

of,

225

Gothic arches, 238-239

" Fall" in writing tables, 110, 170-172

Fan iron for cylinder falls, 265

X., p.

Gold Coast mahoganies, 337

Goodwood House, 259

Face mark, use

,,

panel,

tee, 12

Figure

177-

Flindosa wood, 382

Eastlake, C, 256
Ebonies, various, 340
Elevation and plan of a parting screen, 87
of chest of drawers, 30

semicircular table, 31

three-cornered cabinet, 32

Ellipses, methods of striking, 28-30

Elizabethan details, 282-283, 2 88

of,

179

Fancy woods,

veneers, 215

a plank, 332

Flemish cabinet, measured drawings

of,

Dry-rot in timber, 329

Druxiness in wood, 329
>ug-out chests, 1
Dust-proof joints, 49
Dutch marquetry, cabinet with, Plate
clock, Plate xxiv.

Dyes, woods producing, 348

Empire

bumpy
in

Dressing chest, 173

Drop handles, types

Flatting

Haddon

fireplaces

114

Hall, 259

Hall seat, 208-209

stand, 200, 202-203
table, 20-1 21, 125
,,
1

INDEX
Halved

Hand

Jacobean style, 251

Jack plane, 9
Jackson and Graham, 256

joints, 39
saw, 16-17
screws, 16-17

Handrail

38i

Jardinieres, 173

joints, 51

Jarrah wood, 350

Johnson, Thomas, 255

Hanging

cabinets, 204-205
wall mirror, 206

Hardwicke Hall, 259

Joints, description

and application of

Harewood, 341

Connecting, Plate xiv.

Hatching, 24
Hatfield House, 259

Dovetail, Plate IX.

Framing, Plate XI.
Glued, Plate vi.

Haunched

joints, 41

Halved and bridle, Plate VII.

Hingeing and shutting, Plate xn.

Hepplewhite, G., brasswork, 269

chair, Plate xxix.

chair backs, 313

mouldings, 274
,,

Mitred, Plate x.
Miscellaneous, Plate xm.
Mortise and tenon, Plate vm.
Jointing, arrangement of materials, 60-61
Joints in veneers, 217

screens, 195

,,

style of, 253

Herring-bone patterns, 216
Hickory, 344

Hinged

joints, 52

Hinges, methods of fixing, 266-267

types of, 260-262

Historic French style, 251

houses open to the public, 259

Holbein panelling, 281

Holdfast, 17
Holly, 341

Hope, Thomas, 255

Hopper, development

of,

Kamassie wood, 350

Kauffmann, Angelica, 254
Kauri pine, 348

Keyed

245

an upper carcase, 158

Kidney tables, 83, 109,

King William pine, 350
King's Sanatorium bedroom suite, 297
Kingwood, 340
Kit of tools, description and cost of, 18
Knole House, 259

pine, 350

settees, 325
joints, 52

Knuckle

Identification of chairs, 314

Ightham Mote, 259

Improved mitre shooting block,
Ince and Mayhew, 255

10- 11

Keying, 43

Hornbeam, 344
Housed joints, 43, 67
leg and fly rail, 103

Huon

mitre, 45

Keyhole saw,

screen joints, 252

17

Incorrect angles for dovetails, 66

Indian rosewood, 339

Inking in, methods of, 24
Inlaid bookcase, 143
panelling from Sizergh Castle, 222

Inlaying lines in a tapered leg, 220

methods of, 222

Intarsia, 223
Instruments (drawing), 23, 232
Intersection of a straight mitre, 238
bracket mouldings, 236

curved mouldings, 236

raking mouldings, 238

Iron barks, 351

Lacewood, 343
Lacing up edge of table top, 219
Lagos mahogany, 337
Laminated work an ogee-shaped panel, 85

,,

,,

for flush doors, 80

panels for veneered work,

212

Lancewood, 344
Larch, 347

Lebanon cedar, 347

Leopard wood, 340
Lignum vita?, 341
Lime wood, 334

planes, 9

Ironwoods, 334, 353

Linden wood, 344

Italian oak, 335

Line gauge, 220

walnut, 338

Ivory, use of, in inlaying, 223

Linen-fold panels, 287

Jacobean

details,

282

room, measured drawings of

and Plate XLV.

Lining-up table tops, 90

a,

293

Linings, various, 171

Lippings, methods of forming, 169
Live oak, 336
Locks, types of, 262
Log, description of, 333

Logwood, 348

INDEX

382
Loose

seats, 319-321
Louis XIV., XV., XVI., styles of, 255
types of brasswork, 268

mouldings, 273

panelling, 294
h

Lug

shelf supports, 147, 168

Mouldings
Enlarging and diminishing, 235-237
For barred doors, 274
For various panels, 86

M
Mahoganies, African, 337
Benin, 337
Colonial, 343
Cuba, 336

Gambia, 337

Guatemala, 337

Honduras, 337
,,
Indian, 337

introduction of, 336

,,
Laguna, 337

Mexican, 337

Nicaragua, 337

Maiden's-blush wood, 352

Mansfield, Robinson, panelling, 286
Manwaring, Robert, 255
Maple, 343
Marblewood, 340
Marking awl, use of, 15
dovetails from pins, 65

drawer fronts and

sides, 81

knife, use of, 15

out curved arms for chairs, 317

out ribs for domes, 247
out stuff with thumb and rule, 55
shaped work, 55
panelling for fixing, 282

Marquetry

In rebated frame, 80

Australian, 351

Mortises and mortising

Methods of, 64
Necessity for upright work, 65
Paper gauge for depth, 64
Proportions of, 64
Setting mortise gauge, 64
Testing with square, 64
Mother-of-pearl, use of, in inlaying, 222

cutter's

donkey, 221

description

of,

221

French work, 255

shading for, 221

Medullary rays, 327

Metal mounts, 270
Metalwork, decorative, 267-270
Mitre attachment, 68
block saw, 68
box, 17

cramps, 17
cut, use of, 67
shooting block, improved, 17
shooting board, 17
templates, 17, 69
Mitred joints, various, 45
plinth frame, construction of, 76

Mitreing mouldings and breaks, 68

panel mouldings, 68

stuck mouldings, 69

terms applied to, 67

Mitres, curved, 237

external, internal, and right, 67

method of glueing up, 76

tongued, 76

Morris, William, 256

Mortise gauge, 13

Names and

definitions

of, 35,

275

Raking and curved, 237-238

Scratching, 71
Sections of, for the mill, 228
Stuck-bedded machine, 272
Template for, 80
Types of, 272-275
Working with plane, 70
Mounts, brass, 136, 269
ormolu, 255
,,
Muntings for doors, 35
drawers, 82

glass and carcase backs, 158

Museum case, 300-303

floor case, 302, Plate XLVin.

print stand, 309-310

,,
Victoria and Albert, collections of

furniture in, 259

Music cabinets, construction

Musk wood, 350
Myall wood, 352
Myrtle wood, 350, 352

of,

176-177

N
Nailing,

methods

of,

73

Native teak, 352

Needle leaf trees, 326

Needlewood, 352
Nested tea tables, 1 21-122

New
New
New

Art, description of, 557

South Wales timbers, 351-352

Zealand timbers, 348-350
Nulling, 251, 283
carved on chair frame, 320
,,

Oaks, various, 334335

Odessa oak, 335

Office cabinets, 298-299, 305-306
chair, 207

Oilstones, choosing and use of, 15

various, 15

Old woman's tooth, 9

Olive wood, 341, 351

Onion wood, 352
Oregon pine, 346
Orham wood, 343

Orthographic projection, examples

Oyster Bay pine, 350

of,

30-32

INDEX

383

Plane s

continued.
toothing, 8-9
trying, 8-9

Planing, methods of, 58

Plinths, construction of, 76
various, 35

Plough, setting of, 63

Wood,

Padouk, 338
Panelling, fixing of, 279-281
Gothic, 286-289

historic styles of, 28 1

movable, 289

Paper, drawing, qualities of,

stretching, 23
Papering up, 71
Parquetry, 223

fixing

Pearwood, 342
Pedestals, 205
Pelleting, 280
Pencils, grades of, 23
Penshurst Place, 259
Pergolesi, painted work by, 254

Perspective,

methods

and

Ploughing, 63
Plugging, 277
Pocket screwing, methods of, 51
Pollard oak, 334
Polygons, methods of construction, 27-28
Poplars, 344
Proportionate division of lines, 26-27
Protractors, use of, 4
Puriri

wood, 349

33-34

of,

Petworth House, Sussex, 259

Piano, example of, Plate xxxvi.

Quadrant

Pie-crust top of table, 95

Pines, Canadian red, 347
Carolina, 347

celery top, 350

cypress, 348, 352

method of

Kauri, 348

King William, 350

Moreton Bay, 352

New Zealand white, 349

Oregon, 346
Oyster Bay, 350
pitch, 346
silver, 350

Swiss, 34
yellow, 345
Pine planks, conversion

Plane

tree,

of,

fixing,

Quatrefoils, construction of, 240

Queensland timbers, 352
Queen Anne chair back, 313
china cabinet, 163-164

handles, 269-270

modern tall-boy chest, 180

occasional table with details,
1 22
style, 252
veneered work, 210
writing cabinet, 169-170

336

343

Planes, types of
Iron, bull-nose, 8-9
chariot, 8-9

,,

compass, 8-9

mitre, 8-9
panel, 8-9
rebate, 8-9
shoulder, 8-9
side rebate, 9
smoother, 8-9

,,
,,

Moulding, bead, 10

,,

,,
,,

,,

Rasps, 17

Rata wood, 349

Rebating, 64

after glueing, 87

Recessing, 132
Red bean, 352
birch, 349

groove and tongue, 10

hollow and rounds, 10

cedar, 352

gums, 350
sanders wood, 348

joint, 10

ogee, 10
ovolo, 10

Reeding, 147
Reeds, 275

rule joint, 10

Remouthing a

Stanley combination, 10
trenching, 10

Renaissance period, 251

Revolving bookcases, 200

Wood, Bismarck,

Rails, 86-87

chamfer, 10

hook

8-9
jack, 8-9
jointer, 8-9
panel, 9
rebate, 9, 16
smoothing, 8-9

and

204

Quartered oak, 332

Quartering, 333

Huon, 350

cellaret fitting, 154

iron for cylinder falls, 265
support for secretaire falls,

plane, 21

Rifflers, 17

Rifty shakes, 328

Riga oak, 334

Rimu, 349
Rind galls, 329
Ripping

stuff

on

stool

and bench, 56

INDEX

384
Roller for large size drawing paper, 231
Rosewoods, various, 339, 351

Router, 9
for curved lines, 218

Rubbers, preparation and use

Rule joint hinges, 261, 267
setting-out, 52, 267

stays, 169, 262

of,

71

Sabicu wood, 338

Saffronwood, 353
Sandalwood, 348-350
Santa Maria wood, 338
Sassafras wood, 350
Satin walnut, 339
woods, various, 345-378
,,
Satine wood, 338

Saw

set, 12

Sawing, methods of, 56

Saws, various, 10-12
Saxifrage wood, 352
Scale, drawing, 31
rule, 23

Scales, construction

of,

Shoulder board, 57
cutting, 58

Sideboards, Adam, 153

Georgian, 150

leg, 152

drivers, 15

used

methods

of,

mahogany, Plate XVII.

oak, Plate XL.
painted, Plate XVIII.
walnut, Plate XL.
veneered elm, Plate xxxv.

,,

,,

Silky oaks, 351

Slats, circular

and shaped, 86

Slot screwing, 278

Slotted bar movement, 113, 264-265

Snakewood, 340
Sneezewood, 353

how to draw one up, 232

Specimen rods for setting out, 227
Spindle moulding machine, 272
Splad chair back, 313
Spokeshaves, wood and
Spotted gum trees, 351
Spruces, 346
Square of timber, ^^t,
Squares,

in

cabinetwork, 73

70

Seasoning timber, various methods, 330-331

Section of English oak, 327
half a tree, 327

jack plane, 5

Sectional plan of corner cupboard, 204

Sequoia wood, 347

Setting a saw, 12, 56
planes, 58

Seventeenth century oak press, 3

Sharpening gouges, 70
planes, 58

saws, 12, 56

spokeshaves, 15

Shaving stands, 135

fittings for, 134
She oaks, 352
Shearer, T., 255
Shelf supports, various, 143, 168
Shelly shake in timber, 328
Sheraton, T., brasswork, 269
chair backs, 313
,,
fireplace, 289-290
,,
mouldings, 274
,,
pier table, 129

screens, 195

style of, 251

tables, Plate

XXX.

set,

tee,

Screw cups, 73
of,

board, 61

board with mitre attachment, 68

Specifications,

26-27

Scraper spokeshave, use of, 315

Scrapers, sharpening, 72
use of, 71-72

Scratch stocks, use of, 71, 218-219

Scratching a moulding, 71
a panel on pilaster, 71

Screens, various, 195-196

Scribing,

,,

Softwoods, various, 345-378

South African woods, 353
Spanish oak, 335

Scantling, 333

Screws, types

Shrinkage and warpage in timber, 329-330

Shooting a bolection moulding, 69
a moulding break, 69

iron, 15

23
23

try, 15

Squeezing wax, use of, 230

Stacking boards for seasoning, 331
Stains in wood, removal of, 74
Standard of timber, 333
Stationery cases, fitting
Stave oak, 332-335
Steam box, use of, 85

of, 127,

Stinkwood, 353
Stoves, electric, gas, and oil, 20
Strangers' Hall, Norwich, 259
Stringing and banding, 218
Stringy barks, 351
Stuart period, 251
Stub mortises, 64
Styles of furniture, notes on, 25c

Sumach wood, 348

Sun shakes

in timber,

328

Tabasco mahogany, 337

Tables, types of
Bed, 138-139
Billiard, 89, Plate XVI.
Card, 1 29- 1 30, 132-133
Chess, 138-139
Chippendale writing, 119
Circular, 136-137
Console, 129

171

INDEX
Tables

continued.

Toat,

Cylinder fall,
Dining, Plate xv., 90-91
Dovetail slide, 92-93

Draw

10- 113

(extension), 90, 100- 101

Dressing,

12

Elliptical, fancy, 136-137

writing, 161

Envelope card, 132-133

Extending flap, 102-103
Extension, 88
Frame gate, 98-99

French extension, 123

Toilet-glass, 206-207

Curio, 122-124
1

385

writing, 117

Gate

leg, 95, 99
Hall, 1 20- 1 2 1, 125

Tongued

joints,

Tongues, cross-grained, 62
feather, 63

Toon, 337
Tool chest, making and fitting, 19
Tools, care of, 21
chapter on, 5

kit of, 18

Toothing, 71, 212

Tortoiseshell, use as inlay, 223
Totara, 349
Tracing, methods of, 25
Trammel, 28
Traversing, 60

Kidney dressing, 109-111

Leaf extension, 92-94

Tray

Library, 300-301
Nested, 121
Occasional, 124-125
Pie crust, 138-139
Pier, 128-129
Pillar, 138-139
Pivoted top, 1 30-1 31
Pouch work, 104-105
Revolving tray work, 99, 102
Sheraton pier, 128-129

Tuart wood, 350

Silver, 127-128
Telescope, Plate xv.
Tray frame, 90-91
Work, 103-104
Writing, 11 4-1 15

Taking

Tulip

tree,

345

wood, 241, 352

Turning, details of, 116
fancy, 272
,,

,,

Turkey

inclined chair legs, method of, 317

ring-and-ball, 103
types of, 100-101, 122, 180, 282
oak, 335

u
Underframings

for curio table, 124

,,

dressing-table,

,,

French

,,

,,

,,

,,

,,
,,

use

,,

,,

hall table, 120- 121

Queen Anne work,

,,

,,

William and Mary writing table,

Upsetts

in timber,

V
press, 214
sandbox, 214
saw, 213
,,
Veneering and finishing with sheet

wood, brass, and panel, 69

cutting, 57
Testing joints with straightedge, 61
Thimble fitting for curtain rod, 107
Three-ply panels, 333

Thumb

catches, 171
screws, 17
,,
Thunder shake, 328

Thurming work, 272

Thuya, 341
Timber, defects and diseases, 328-329
trees,

15

dowelling, 65
marking out curved work, 247
patterns in veneered work,

Tenon

328

Veneer clamps, 214

hammer, 213

216
69

326

122,

180

cutting mitres, 70
dovetails, 66

of,

table,

leaf-extension table, 94

Templates, for angles, 230

chairmaking, 316
,,
curved work, 83, 177

,,
,,

1 1

extension

123

Tall-boy chest, 180-181

Tambours, 266
Tasmanian woods, 350

Tee squares, 23

measurements and templates, 227-228

,,
Talbert, Bruce J., 256

Teak, 344
Technical terms, 35, and Glossary

fittings,

Trefoiling, 240

230

details,

63

Tongueing board, 63

,,
,,

,,

,,

wooden

zinc,

190

cauls, 190

cleaning off, 217

curved surfaces, 190
laying with hammer and caul, 213
oyster shell, 224
preparation of groundwork, 211

purpose of, 210

shrinkage and flatting, 212-215

Veneers, burrs, 211

,,

figures

in,

211

grades of, 211

Victorian style, 256
Violet wood, 340

25

12388

39

INDEX

3 86

William and Mary arm-chair, 318

Wainscot oak, 332

Wallace Collection, 259

,,

Walnut woods, various, 338-339

Wandering heart in timber, 328

,,

Wandoo wood,
Warding

files,

350

,,

,,

Wardrobes, construction

of,

75

gentlemen's, 159
hanging, 159
inlaid, 155

mahogany, 160
satinwood, Plate xxi.
types of, 154
wing, 156
Washstands, construction of, 106-107
enclosed for offices, 308

folding up, 107

types of, 108

Water gilding, 118

seasoning, 331

Wattle woods, 350

Waved edge for rims, building up, 86
mouldings, machine for, 224
,,
Wet rot in timber, 329
W'hite beech, New South Wales, 351
cedar, 347

deal, 346

honeysuckle, 352

pure, New Zealand, 349

Whitewood, 345

Printed in Great Britain at

Plate

china cabinet, 165

style, 252

Willow, 345

Winding

17

chest of drawers,
XXVIII.

in timber, 35
strips, use of, 59

Wood-boring

beetles, 329
producing dyes, 348
Woolybutt wood, 351
Working drawings, preparation of, 24, 226
Writing cabinets, satinwood, Plate XX.

Woods

Yarran wood, 352

Yellow deal, 346

pine, 345
poplar, 345

wood, 352

Yew, English

New
York gum
,,

burr, 341
Zealand, 349
tree, 350

Yorkshire dresser,

Zebra wood, 341

Zeen oak, 336

The Darien

Pkess, Edinburgh.

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