Woodworker's Journal fall-2008, страница 59

Woodworker

MATERIAL LIST

1 Rails (2)

T x W x L

3/4" x 2'A" x 14"

2 Stiles (2)

3/4" x 1 ii" x 19%"

3 Mirror (1)

1/4" Cut to fit

4 Retainers (4)

1/2" x 3/8" x 7/8"

5 Back (1)

1/8" x 1314" x 18"

6 Strap Hangers (2)

Steei

7 Decorative Accents (4) Optional

7 Decorative Accents (4) Optional

frame is one possibility, but if you go for a rectangular frame, we suggest making the width about two thirds of the length.

We also strongly suggest using 1 /4" plate glass, not the thinner variety, because it's dead flat and thus a more faithful reflector. Have the glass cut to size and all four edges polished smooth. To prevent moisture from being absorbed and marring the reflective surface, be sure to carefully seal all four edges with clear nail polish or lacquer.

The frame shown here is made of 3/4" reclaimed mahogany. Darker woods like mahogany or walnut seem to define the glass better than lighter woods.

Cut the four lap joints on the stiles and rails (pieces 1 and 2) as shown in the Technical Drawings (see page 60), making a 1/4" offset to match the thickness of the glass (piece 3). If you're a new woodworker without a full shop, you can cut these joints by hand, but if you have access to a shop, these lap joints are easy to cut on a tabie saw.

Fastening the Corners

Fasten the four corners with rivets — copper nails peened over saucer-shaped copper washers — and cut the decorative diamonds out of copper sheet metal: these are nautical supplies our author had handy. You could come up with a different metal motif, reinforce the lap joints with wood pegs or simply glue the lap joints and countersink a small screw from the back. Shape the gentle curve of the rails after you've joined the frame. Next, form the retainers (pieces 4) out of the same wood as the frame. It's not strictly necessary to put a back (piece 5) on this frame, but it makes for a more finished job and protects the back of the reflecting surface from being accidentally scratched. Tf you do this, use 1/8" plywood held in place with countersunk l/2"-tong, #6 brass flathead screws so they won't mar the wall.

Finishing Up

Topcoat the project with your favorite clear finish. Finally, having come this far, be sure to use quality strap hangers (pieces 6), available at hardware stores, to properly support the weight of the mirror. Now you have it... a quick project that shows off your best — woodworking— side!

Mirror Exploded View

Subscribe now at www.wpodwoirkersjournal.com/digitaledition