Strand 3—Over 3, under 3, over 3, under 3, and so on.
Strand 4—Under 1, over 3, under 3, over 3, and so on.
Strand 5—Under 2, over 3, under 3, over 3, and so on.
Strand 6—Under 3, over 3, under 3, over 3, and so on.
FIG. 67. METHOD OF WEAVING SPLINTS.
The isometric sketch of a stool, [Fig. 67], shows the structure partly woven. It will be noticed that the splints or reeds run both ways underneath the frame as they do on top. As indicated previously these strands underneath should be woven in some manner to assure a seat of maximum strength for the material used. The diagonal weave was arbitrarily chosen to illustrate the method of weaving the seat frame. The weaving underneath is not shown on the sketch. If the rails on any seat are run flush with the inside corners of the posts the woven strands will fill the entire space. On the other hand, if they are permitted an offset, a series of open spaces are left as shown on the first woven seat illustrated. The sketch shows the rails flush with the inner corner of the posts.
A Rustic Chair.—The type of chair which is particularly adapted to splint weaving is illustrated in [Fig. 68]. The construction is simple, and the necessary bending of pieces is readily done if a suitable steaming chest is available in the shop. Such a chest may be made of a 6 in. gas pipe cut the required length and threaded at both ends. Cap one end permanently. Have the cap for the other end removable, with a gasket in it to prevent the escape of steam, and a suitable handle attached for ease in removing. Set the pipe upon a standard, then make the necessary steam connections at the closed end and the drain at the other. Place the wood in the chest, screw on the cap, and turn on the steam. The length of time the wood should remain in the steam depends upon the wood and the size of the piece.