3-7. Frame construction. Frame construction consists
of a grooved frame and a panel which fits into the
groove. The framework adds strength because the grain
of the wood runs lengthwise in both length and width.
Frame construction is highly desirable, because it
overcomes shrinkage and swelling and provides ample
strength for the panel. Figure 17 illustrates a simple type
of frame construction which is used extensively in
cabinet construction. The various joints we have covered
can be used to fasten the frame together.
3-8. Stool construction. As shown in figure 18, stool
construction may be regarded as four frames put together
to form a rectangle or square. It is used for tables,
chairs, stands, and many types of cabinets. Mortise and
tenon joints and dowel joints work well in stool
construction. When fitting this type of construction with
Figure 17. Frame construction.
a top (for example, a tabletop), do not secure the top
with glue, because wood shrinks across its width and the
and final inspection of your finished work. Obviously,
top must be able to give with the shrinking
knowledge of construction fundamentals and of which
materials should be selected-and how-is useless to you if
you do not put your piece of work together adequately
and carefully check your completed article.
3-5. You may have the opportunity to construct new
cabinets, or your work may consist only of rebuilding
damaged ones. Remember to apply what you have
learned. By doing so, you will produce an article out of
wood that will make you proud to say, "I made it."
3-6. Constructing Cabinets.
Before you start
constructing a cabinet, become familiar with all of the
building details and prepare a bill of materials. As you
study your drawing, you will find that the article to be
constructed can be classified in one of three forms of
cabinet construction. Regardless of the cabinets you
make, use one of the three general forms (frame, stool,
or box) or a combination of them. These three forms
Figure 19. Securing tops.
are the basis for all cabinet construction and can be
adapted to fit any design; however. special methods must
and swelling process. Figure 19 illustrates how a tabletop
be used where intricate shape are desired.
is secured in stool construction. If the rails and top
shrink or swell, then the top can move without splitting.
3-9. Box construction. Box construction is used for
articles made from solid wood, such as chests of drawers,
cupboards, and bookcases. Any item built without a
framework comes under the heading "box construction."
Figure 20 illustrates one type of box construction. When
using the box construction method, use rabbet, butt,
mitered, or dovetail joints.
3-10. Selection of Materials. Now that we have
discussed the three forms of cabinet construction, let's
assume that we have our drawing, have checked all the
details, and have made out our bill of materials. After
Figure 18. Stool construction.
this assumption, select the materials needed. When
selecting materials for your project, bear in mind how
and where the article will be used. Normally, you would
not use the most expensive trade of ma-
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