To make a wooden rocking chair with curved armrests, you’ll need to follow a series of steps to ensure stability, comfort, and the aesthetic design you’re aiming for. Here’s a basic guide to get you started:
Materials:
- Hardwood (oak, maple, or cherry are ideal)
- Wood glue
- Screws or nails
- Wood finish (varnish, oil, or stain)
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Saw (circular or jigsaw)
- Drill and bits
- Clamps
- Rocker runners (pre-made or custom cut)
- Wood dowels (optional for added strength)
Tools:
- Woodworking clamps
- Sander or hand sanding block
- Measuring tape and pencil
- Jig for curves (for the armrests)
- Router (optional, for smoothing edges)
Step-by-Step Process:
1. Design and Measurements
- Sketch the rocking chair design, taking note of the desired angle for the backrest, seat height, and armrest curvature.
- The seat should typically be around 17-18 inches from the ground.
- Curved armrests can be designed using a template or by hand, depending on your preference.
2. Prepare the Rocking Chair Components
- Seat Slats: Cut the seat slats (wide enough for comfort) and attach them with screws or dowels.
- Backrest Slats: Cut the backrest slats, ensuring they have a slight incline for comfort. Attach them to the vertical back posts.
- Legs and Rocker Runners: Cut the front and back legs to the desired height, ensuring they’re sturdy enough to support weight. Rocker runners should be gently curved to provide smooth rocking motion.
3. Creating the Curved Armrests
- Template: To achieve a nice curve, you can create a template by drawing the curve on a piece of scrap wood. Alternatively, you can use a flexible curve ruler or pre-made curve jigs.
- Cut the Curves: Using a jigsaw, carefully follow the curved lines. Sand the edges to smooth out any rough spots.
- Attach to Chair Frame: Position the armrests on the sides of the chair and make sure they are level and symmetrical. Attach them securely to the back posts and front legs with wood screws or dowels.
4. Assembling the Rocking Chair
- Attach the seat to the base, ensuring it’s flush and level.
- Attach the backrest to the chair frame.
- The rocker runners can be pre-made or custom cut to the correct size. Attach them to the base of the legs at the front and rear, ensuring they are parallel to each other.
5. Sanding and Finishing
- Sand the entire chair, especially the curved armrests, to smooth any rough edges or saw marks. Start with medium grit sandpaper and finish with fine grit for a smooth finish.
- Apply your desired wood finish (varnish, stain, or oil). If you want to maintain the natural look of the wood, oil works well. Apply several coats and sand lightly between coats for a smooth finish.
6. Final Touches
- Inspect for any loose screws or joints and ensure everything is securely attached.
- After finishing, allow the chair to dry completely before using it.
Tips:
- Use a Template: If you’re not comfortable with freehanding curves, templates can help you get precise, consistent results.
- Curved Backrest: For extra comfort, consider adding a slight curve to the backrest slats.
- Comfort: Padding or cushions on the seat and armrests can improve comfort, especially for longer sittings.
This basic guide gives you an outline, but you can adjust the design to your personal preference. The most important elements are sturdy construction, smooth curves, and a good finish.