Rocking Chair

[Birdhunter]

I didn't know where to post this question so please excuse it being in this location.

A dear young friend is pregnant with her first baby and asked me to build her a scooped seat slat back rocking chair.

I'm pretty good with the stuff one builds with Festool products, but I've never made a proper chair and certainly not a rocking chair.

Should I tell her I can't do this? Are there resources to help a first time rocking chair builder.

She's 3 months underway so I'd only have 5-6 months.

 

[Gary in Texas]

Why don't you do a google search for rocking chair designs, find out what is available for free (or paid), then decide if you think any of the designs are doable with your skills?  If you want to do wood working in the build furniture type arena, you will find out pretty quick like every time you go to make something, it will be new territory!  And that, my friend, is how you build those skills!!!!!!!

 

[toolbox]

I couldn't agree more. Can't tell you the amount of times I've not known how to do something, but followed a good plan and the result came out fantastic.  Just remember that old adage: "Measure twice, cut once."  This holds especially true when you're new to a project.  For real though, 1. Order a plan according to your level of expertise. Don't over do it.  2. Study the project plan before you begin. Look carefully for any revisions or corrections in the instructions.  Otherwise, if the directions tell you to do something, unless it looks really REALLY wrong, it's correct, even if it doesn't seem like it is.  It will reveal "why" later.  3. Don't start until you fully understand everything and can "see" the finished product in your head. 4. Go over the next step of the plan each time you come back to the project before you begin working on it.  Now -  You can do it. Go for it!

 

[nclemmons]

Message Zack in this thread.

He's built several and may offer you some advice.

http://festoolownersgroup.com/member-projects/a-bubinga-rocker-and-matching-table/msg347940/#msg347940

 

[Birdhunter]

That rocker is both awesome and inspiring.

 

[Gary in Texas]

Yep, several websites have plans for very similar rockers, and bar stools, based on the Maloof designs.  Last I checked, many provide a DVD and full sized drawings for templates, etc...and will cost you $70-100 USD. 

There are also some week long schools you can take building these type rockers.  That would also be a good way to dive into the unknown, and improve your skills!!!

Those are some really sweet rockers, Zack's looks great.

 

[sancho57]

U Tube iss your friend, also look at Toms video (search the thread here) on how tto build a cradle. Yea I  know they are different but he has some very good and innnovative ways of using he festools to make that cradle that can be used on a chair.
Just got  to adapt. Festools can do it all, the only limitation is our own creativity on how to get it done

 

[green fever]

Sam maloof rocking chair designs are out there for free you can try popular woodworking, better still Google search Sam Maloof history & remember this man never trained as a furniture maker he was self taught , very inspiring.

 

[darita]

I'm no craftsman by any means...just a hobbyist. I was able to build a simple mission style rocker with plans. I'm afraid Maloof would be beyond me.

 

[rljatl]

Double Plan Bundle SALE - Build a Sculptured Rocker AND Lowback Dining Chair

Sculptured Rocking Chair Walnut Parts Kit with Plan Bundle