Day 263 - Panels & Windows

Post date: Dec 17, 2013 1:40:44 AM

Somewhere I missed an entry, but now that the parts are cut, it is time to place them. I secured the center column first and build outward from there. That way any fluctuations in my measurements or cuts get pushed out to the edges which will be sanded down anyway. I place the center column, glue in place with wood glue, and clean up any excess glue squeezed out. I applied the glue with a tooth pick and use toothpicks and scrap pieces to clean up the excess.

Once the center column, the top and bottom of each panel, and the outer columns are in place, you can then measure from the top of the top panel cross beam to the top of the bottom cross beam and divide the distance by 4. I then mark that distance off down the side of each column and use that as a marker to place the 3 additional cross members (with the mark at the top of each cross member).

Next I decided to do the window detail. There are a few ways to do this, I picked the one with the fewest cuts and alignments. 

• • First, I measure the width (left to right) of the open panel and divide by 3.

  • Then, I mark the top and bottom of that panel frame. This will serve as the center marks for each vertical piece. 

  • Next, I place one end of the very thin piece of balsa I purchased for this into the frame and, with my knife, I mark where to cut and finally cut the piece on my cutting board. I do this part by hand, not measurement because I want every piece to fit snug and no gaps. You can always fill in the other gaps with a little wood putty, but these will be incredibly difficult to fill in and preserve the clean look. 

  • Once the vertical bars are in place (I do all the sides first), I mark the vertical center across the columns & the vertical bars. Then, hand cut the 3 horizontal pieces. I place the left and right piece first, then the center because if it is a snug fit, the columns will add extra strength (instead of pushing up against the freshly glued unsupported bar if you go left to right - - you'll see what I mean when you try).