This is so radically different in construction from the previous forms
that it requires special consideration. Twelve edges must be planed to
a 60-degree mitre throughout their entire length and the fit must be
perfect. To accomplish this, first cut out two hexagons from 1/2-inch
pine, 8 inches in diameter, and exactly alike. Construct a special
shooting board, at least three inches longer than the legs. Plane a
strip of white pine to the shape of a wedge whose angle is 30 degrees.
Nail it to the top of shooting board, as shown in Fig. 178 at _a_. By
laying the piece to be mitred on this, the edge can be planed to 60
degrees. Lay this on the two pine hexagons as shown at _b_, and with
the knife make a mark at the angle _a_ on both ends. Connect these two
points by a sharp line drawn with a straight edge. Plane this edge on
the shooting board to point _a_, giving angle _a c_. Tack this leg by
brads to the two hexagons, at each extreme end, driving brads only
partly in, so that they can be easily withdrawn. Fit the second leg to
the first, and so on around to the starting point. Number or letter the
legs, and the corresponding faces of the hexagons, so that they may be
easily replaced.
Next take off the legs, lay out and cut the openings with the usual
tools. These may be plain Gothic arches or simple modifications.
When the legs are finished, make the hexagonal top and prepare to
assemble. Use the best glue. Fasten the first leg in its original
position on the pine hexagons, using 1-1/4-inch brads at the top,
driving them all the way into the original holes. Put a coating of
glue on one edge throughout its whole length, and rub the next leg up
close into position. The brads in the lower hexagon must be driven in
only part way, as they are to be removed again. Put all six legs into
position in this manner. To bind the legs together while the glue is
drying, heavy cord should be wound around them, using strips of wood
to prevent marring the angles. Let the whole stand over night.
Next day, plane off any glue that may show, removing the two brads at
the bottom, dressing down one side at a time until you have reached
the last leg. The pine hexagon at the bottom may be taken out, if it
doesn't fall out. Sand-paper the sides with No. 0 sand-paper, wrapped
around a block.
The top only remains to be adjusted.
Drill six holes in the pine hexagon at the top, and pass six 3/4 or
7/8 inch screws through from the under side into the top piece by
inverting, with top on the floor.
There is so much careful work on this tabourette that it is worthy of
good material. Mahogany is very suitable, the light coloured bay wood
being the cheapest variety; but of course other woods will do. In case
bay wood is used, it can be given the appearance of old mahogany by
first coating it with a wash of potassium bichromate. Polish.