Last fall we learned that our daughter was pregnant with our first grandchild. I decided to make a baby cradle, and after some research and design work arrived at a design that both daughter and son-in-law were in favor of. I began work as the new year began, and finished it end of March. I have attached photos of my concept sketch done with Sketchup, and a number of views of the finished product. The primary wood is curly maple, and the slats are sapele.
There were some challenges. I wanted a cradle that swung, but that also had the capability of switching to a traditional rocking design. The solution to that issue was using two large A-frames connected by a double stretcher that provided rigidity. Connected to the large A-frames are two smaller frames that support the cradle with four 1 1/4" diameter Delrin rods. The smaller frames swing on Delrin axles that connect them to the large frames. The cradle can be lifted out of the frame, and then set on the floor on rockers attached to its bottom.
The other major challenge was figuring out a knock down construction method so that the cradle could be packed flat for shipping to San Francisco, and for storage when not in use in between children (we're hoping for more than one!). I accomplished this by using 1/4 x 20 machine bolts with large, pan head style hex drive heads, and threaded brass inserts. The entire cradle can be assembled using only a 5/16 hex driver and a #2 Square drive screwdriver. It is rock solid, swinging easily and with excellent stability.
The overall design was inspired by mid century Scandinavian designs, and the iconic work of Sam Maloof.
Finally, I am happy to report that the cradle arrived safely in San Francisco last week, ensconced in a custom shipping crate that I made. They assembled the cradle in 30 minutes using instructions that I provided with photos of the entire assembly sequence. Now all it needs is the baby, our grandson due about a month from now.
Thanks for having a look. I would be happy to address any questions.
Matt
There were some challenges. I wanted a cradle that swung, but that also had the capability of switching to a traditional rocking design. The solution to that issue was using two large A-frames connected by a double stretcher that provided rigidity. Connected to the large A-frames are two smaller frames that support the cradle with four 1 1/4" diameter Delrin rods. The smaller frames swing on Delrin axles that connect them to the large frames. The cradle can be lifted out of the frame, and then set on the floor on rockers attached to its bottom.
The other major challenge was figuring out a knock down construction method so that the cradle could be packed flat for shipping to San Francisco, and for storage when not in use in between children (we're hoping for more than one!). I accomplished this by using 1/4 x 20 machine bolts with large, pan head style hex drive heads, and threaded brass inserts. The entire cradle can be assembled using only a 5/16 hex driver and a #2 Square drive screwdriver. It is rock solid, swinging easily and with excellent stability.
The overall design was inspired by mid century Scandinavian designs, and the iconic work of Sam Maloof.
Finally, I am happy to report that the cradle arrived safely in San Francisco last week, ensconced in a custom shipping crate that I made. They assembled the cradle in 30 minutes using instructions that I provided with photos of the entire assembly sequence. Now all it needs is the baby, our grandson due about a month from now.
Thanks for having a look. I would be happy to address any questions.
Matt
