columns

[daver828]

I am looking to make some wooden columns and don't know how to figure the cuts on the wood. I want to use cherry or walnut (whatever the wife decides) but it will only be for looks, meaning will not support anything substantial. So I'm guessing that 3/4 would be plenty thick enough. I just need to learn how to figure the angles of the cuts and how many pieces needed. Any thoughts would be appreciated. Thanks

 

[DaveO]

Well if they are going to be straight round columns (not tapered) divide 360 by how many staves you want to use, the more staves the smoother the curve. Then take that number and divide it by 2 and that will give you the angle to rip the staves at. For example making a column out of 8 staves will need a bevel cut of 22.5° but will result in an octagon. You can take a hand plane and blend the corners for a more rounder shape.
Also you can get a birds mouth router bit that will help simplify the joinery and alignment.

Dave

 

[daver828]

Thank you DaveO