Table of Contents
Plans
O.K. Let’s rip into it
First have a look at the plans and then we’ll get cracking.
Following are the instructions that were given to Jess to build this garden chair. I hope they will also benefit you should you decide to make one. Regardless of wether you are a novice or a seasoned D.I.Y.er these instructions, drawings, photos, and plans should guide you through the building process – remember, this was Jess’s first build.
Bit of a cautionary note: If you are a first timer attempting this project, ensure you have a qualified person to oversee the safety aspects of the job and show you how to use tools correctly. Do not use power tool unsupervised if you are a novice.
Cut all the pieces
Cut all the pieces according to the cutting list. Cut the longest pieces first to minimize waste.
Great experience, thoroughly enjoyed it.
I have used a hand saw a few times but never power tools. My reluctance to use power tools was because I was intimidated by them-never used them in my life and always thought I wouldn’t be able to cut the wood properly.
The initial project that I was going to complete was an outdoor bench, but due to time constraints halfway through we had to change the project to a chair.
The project was pretty easy, however due to my lack of confidence in my ability to use power tools, I still found it challenging. I also had to get used to reading the building plans.
Les’ calming attitude helped a lot with calming my anxiety.
The first session I was dropped in the deep end and I learned how to use the circular power saw, we both thought I wasn’t able to use the mitre saw due to my small hand span. We later found out that I could… but more of that adventure soon.
The first step was to create the legs, using the circular power saw the progress was slower-me being a perfectionist also didn’t help.
At the start I found it difficult to cut a straight line using the circular power saw. If your initial cut into the wood is straight, then generally the rest of your cut is straight. If you push the saw through too fast it will vibrate a lot in your hand. You just need to guide the saw, with hardly any pressure. Slow and steady wins.
Halfway through the first session we realised I was able to use the mitre saw, however I was still scared to use it. The second session Les was having none of that and encouraged me to try it.
I thought why not, I came here to challenge myself.
I loved it! You don’t have to worry so much about cutting a straight line. You line up the cut before you start, make sure the piece of wood is flush against the back, release the safety and start by guiding the blade down and gliding the blade towards you if the wood is thick.
The mitre saw made it so much easier and faster! I have been converted.
The best way to describe the drill driver is temperamental. I didn’t realise that with driving it is all about being in line with the screw not the drill driver itself being straight. If I wasn’t in line with the screw it would make a horrible noise. If I was in line with the screw it would work smoothly. Funny when I thought Les wasn’t watching is the time that I drilled perfectly.
I have to say my favorite tool was the jigsaw, and no not because I love completing jigsaw puzzles. I think this was the only tool I knew the name of. As soon as I made the first cut I knew this was my tool.
The blade in a jigsaw is more flexible than other saws, which can be a bit strange. I had to cut a rounded edge on the arm of the chair. It is not easy to manipulate the blade, again it is all about guiding the blade. It takes a lot of cuts to get what you want, you need patience with this tool. But the patience pays off with the finished product-a cut that you can be very proud of.
Unfortunately due to time constraints, I wasn’t able to complete as much as I wanted of the project. Les had to complete a lot of it. The parts I did complete I am very proud of. Completing these sessions has given me the confidence to say yes I can use power tools. I can’t wait for my next project. One that I will complete 100% of it!
Cheers
Jess
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wNUlRHWShcE&feature=youtu.be