Fig. 214. The camp-stool
The four legs are made as shown at a ([Fig. 214]). The small end is to be rounded to a diameter of 5⁄8 inch; 81⁄2 inches from this end a 3⁄16-inch hole is bored for the rivet or bolt, which is to hold the legs together. Seven inches from the lower or foot end a 1⁄2-inch hole is bored 3⁄8 or 3⁄4 inch deep. This is to receive the cross rod or dowel. The two top pieces 14 × 11⁄8 × 11⁄8 inches are rounded on two of their edges as shown at b. On the flat side of one of these bore two holes 5⁄8 inch diameter and 3⁄4 inch deep, 9 inches apart, to receive the small end of the leg. On the other top piece, the holes are eleven inches apart.
The two cross pieces may be rounded, or pieces of 5⁄8-inch maple dowel used. In either case, the ends must be pared down to a diameter of 1⁄2 inch to fit the holes of this size. One is to be sawed nine inches long, the other eleven.
The camp-stool is composed of two frames pivoted together. Put together the inner frame, first gluing the legs into holes bored in top pieces, and at the same time gluing in the cross piece. These joints may be fastened by driving a brad through from the outside, or by wedges, as described in previous chapters. The outer frame is now put together, and the two pivoted. This is usually done with a rivet, a thin washer having been placed between the two sets of legs to relieve the friction. A small bolt and nut may be used, but as the nut is liable to come off, the bolt end should be riveted over the nut with the hammer.
Canvas or even a piece of carpet may be used for the seat. The size required is 15 by 12, the ends being tacked to the lower side of the top pieces. When canvas is used, it is usually turned under an inch on each side, and hemmed. In this case, its width must be at least fourteen inches. All articles which are to be handled much should have the edges slightly rounded; this rule applies to the camp-stool.
BENCHES
Folding settees for outdoor use are on the market at very cheap prices, but they are neither comfortable nor substantial. Fixed benches can be made of heavy but simple construction, as well as movable ones.
[Fig. 215] shows the simplest possible form. Posts of locust, chestnut, or cedar are set in the ground to a depth of two feet or more. The diameter should be at least four inches.