Clark Staves
09-03-2013, 10:42 AM
First post here, after lurking for a while.
I'm in the process of building what I'll call a "Spinder" staircase, i.e., a Spiral and a winder Staircase combined. I have it all framed, and am about to bend the handrail. Since its a mere 10" radius on a 15° rake (from vertical), I can't use the pre-milled handrail bending set. I'm planning on 1/8" poplar strips, which I'll mill with my 1-3/4 HP router.
I've seen the Sheer router jig, but for a one-off, out of my budget. Since the handrail is flat along the top of the rail, as it forms a helix, would I really need the support the Sheer provides?
I do have a couple of "S" shaped handrails to do on the walls, but the curves are very gentle and I think I'll be fine riding on top.
I was thinking a 90° T-type support, to keep things square with the side might be all that's needed. On the other hand, the bits have a bearing on the bottom, so I'm wondering if even that is overkill.
Anyone that can weigh in who's routed rail before? I'm planning to match the popular 6210 pattern.
I'm in the process of building what I'll call a "Spinder" staircase, i.e., a Spiral and a winder Staircase combined. I have it all framed, and am about to bend the handrail. Since its a mere 10" radius on a 15° rake (from vertical), I can't use the pre-milled handrail bending set. I'm planning on 1/8" poplar strips, which I'll mill with my 1-3/4 HP router.
I've seen the Sheer router jig, but for a one-off, out of my budget. Since the handrail is flat along the top of the rail, as it forms a helix, would I really need the support the Sheer provides?
I do have a couple of "S" shaped handrails to do on the walls, but the curves are very gentle and I think I'll be fine riding on top.
I was thinking a 90° T-type support, to keep things square with the side might be all that's needed. On the other hand, the bits have a bearing on the bottom, so I'm wondering if even that is overkill.
Anyone that can weigh in who's routed rail before? I'm planning to match the popular 6210 pattern.