Help on Grain

[Jim Tobias]

I need some advice on how to select the angle of the grain to improve the strength of feet or legs. For instance, I was making 4 feet for a coat rack and the feet have a nearly 90 degree turn in them. What is the best way to position/cut the feet from the wood to give it the most grain strength at the weak points(in the curve)? I hope I am describing this adequately.

[Dave Smith]

Are the feet one piece? If so the grain needs to run the length of the foot. Imagine a line running from the top of the foot to the bottom. It will at a 45 degree angle to the piece.

Dave Smith

Breakfast is ready in Longview, WA.

[Bob Smalser]

"the feet have a nearly 90 degree turn in them."

If I read thet correctly, you have two choices.

1) Hit your local apple orchard up for some 90-degree crooks and make your own boards out of them on bandsaw and planer.

You can dry them in the microwave if you use low heat...but do it while Mama is shopping 'cause it stinks up the kitchen pretty good.

2) Laminate them.