Newel-posts and Hand-rails as shown in [Fig. 75]. Make a small groove in the bottom of the hand-rail as shown in the drawing. Toothpicks are of just the right size for
Figs. 72-75.—Details of Inside Stairs.
The Balusters.—As brads are likely to split the thin cigar-box wood, the staircases should be put together with glue. First fasten the stringers in place, cutting a slot in the edge of the floors for the tops to set in, as shown in [Fig. 71]. Then glue on the treads and risers, and cut the bottom of the newel-post to fit over the second step. The lower end of the toothpick balusters are set into slits cut with a knife in the treads, and the upper ends fit in the groove cut in the hand-rail.
The Balustrades around the stair openings on the second and third floors are made in the same way (see [Fig. 71]). As finished floors are to be laid in the halls, as described later, it will be well at this point to fasten a strip from a cigar-box around the stair openings, upon which to fasten the newels and in which to stick the ends of the balusters.
Fig. 76.—The Front Steps.