Piano bench Questions

[ck1999]

I am going to build a piano bench. It dimensions are 30 x 14 x 20 (l x w x h). I was going to make the legs of 1 7/8 square and have a storage compartment 3 1/2" deep. Similar to http://www.jens-sehm-furniture.com/piano-bench.html. However, I do not know the size of the one in this link. I see he does not use any braces. Would I need any additional leg supports or braces on a bench this size.

Also i am thinking about using http://www.woodcraft.com/Product/2001069/10357/Corner-Brace-Table-Leg--1.aspx for braces. Should I use pocket hole screws for more support?

I am planning on using walnut.

Thanks for the support.

Chris

 

[ErnieM]

Re: Piano Stool Questions

Your link to the piano bench seems to be broken, but it sounds like you're talking about a standard piano bench. Metal braces are most often used on cheaper benches. They have a tendency to loosen up with use. For a quality bench, stick with mortice and tenon joints and forget the braces.

Ernie

 

[ck1999]

Thanks for the advice. I have fixed the links.

Chris

 

[CDPeters]

I concur with Ernie - mortise and tenons on the skirt rails into the legs should be plenty strong. If you are worried about the legs loosening over time, you could draw-pin the M&T joints for added strength.

C.

 

[pviser]

Another idea is to modify the design with stretchers: one on each end with a long one connecting them in the middle. This is a pleasing and traditional way to add some strength, while eschewing the metal parts.

 

[ck1999]

Paul,

are you refering to further down on the legs near the bottom? I think I have seen some picture of what you are talking about with leg supports.


If I go with MT then the tenons will only be about 3/4 long before intersecting? Is this going to be long enough? Also, is there a "rule of thumb" to use about the length of the tenons. I have read somewhere about the width and thickness but not length.

Thanks

Chris

 

[pviser]

Yes, I'd place the stretchers about half way down. I like the look of stretchers, but I realize that some folks may prefer the simpler lines of four slim legs by themselves. That said, the legs of a piano bench are subject to lateral and torsional forces, while a table does not usually have to be designed for such forces. As you indicated in your original posting, strength is key. For anything having to support a moving 200+ lb human (not to mention duets!), I would look for ways to add beef without sacrificing aesthetics.