Question on designing spindles/pedestals

[Jack Gaskins]

Any of you guys use a computer program like Sketch up or Corel to design you spindles and such? I usually draw by hand but I am having a hard time picturing the shapes of a spindle. Was thinking a computer program would help me once I start manipulating the curves. It would be nice if they had a source book for spindle shapes like they do for bowls and vases.

Jack

[Bruce Pratt]

Best source book I have found is Classic Forms by Stuart E Dyas (2008) ISBN 978-0-85442-190-0. It has more than 500 line drawings and nearly 100 photographs of spindle forms including columns, balusters, stair rails, chair legs, finials and more. Well worth the price.