Curved parts for a bench

[Tom Andersen]

Hi Guys, I wish to make a copy of the bench shown in the attached photos. What's the best way to make the curved parts?
Thanks,
Tom

[Adam Cavaliere]

From my limited knowledge:

Create a template out of MDF with a bandsaw and sand it up smooth.

Then use a router to cut out the real pieces with the template you first created.

[Jamie Buxton]

I'd use a bandsaw or a good saber saw, and clean up with a sander. I'd make one part, and trace it on to the stock to make its mirror image.

[Alan Tolchinsky]

I'm with Jamie here. I'd make a template as suggested only if you're making more than one either now or in the future. Templates are cool in that each part is an exact replica of the original.

[Jim Becker]

Rough cut with a band saw or jig saw and then pattern route to get to the final profile. But IMHO, there is no harm in making an MDF template for even a one-off project as it's often a necessary means to the end for what you want to accomplish. You can futz with the cheaper material all you need to before you commit to the expensive stuff.

[Jamie Buxton]

It is tough to tell from the photo, but the arms look like they're 2" wide or so. Pattern-routing can get a little too exciting with a bit that long. Tip the router just a bit, and bad things happen. Hence my previous suggestions.

[Jim Becker]

Jamie you pattern route about half way, flip it over and finish it with a bottom bearing flush trim bit using the previously pattern routed surface as your guide...

[glenn bradley]

What Jim said. Works like a charm.

[Tom Andersen]

It is tough to tell from the photo, but the arms look like they're 2" wide or so. Pattern-routing can get a little too exciting with a bit that long. Tip the router just a bit, and bad things happen. Hence my previous suggestions.

Yes, they are about 2" wide, so flipping on the router is probably needed. Thanks for all of the good input!