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 a top (for
Figure 17. Frame construction.
example, a tabletop), do not secure the top with glue,
because wood shrinks across its width and the top must be
and final inspection of your finished work. Obviously,
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 are the
Figure 19. Securing tops.
basis for all cabinet construction and can be adapted to fit
any design; however. special methods must be used
and swelling process. Figure 19 illustrates how a tabletop
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 this
Figure 18. Stool construction.
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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