The accompanying sketch shows a bookrack designed strictly along mission
lines. Enough stock may be found among the scrap, as no piece is over 1
in, in width or thickness. If stock is not on hand, secure the
following, cut to exact lengths:
2 stretchers, 1 by 1 by 20 in., S-4-S.
4 posts, 1 by 1 by 7-1/2 in., S-4-S.
4 rails, 1 by 1 by 7 in., S-4-S.
8 slats, 1/2 by 1/2 by 3-1/2 in., S-4-S.
Arrange the pieces as they are to be in the finished rack and number
both parts of each joint. There will be twelve lap joints, and great
care must be taken to mark them accurately and to cut to exactly half
the depth of each piece.
First fit the posts and rails of the ends. To mark the width of each
notch, lay the piece which is to fit into the notch upon it and thus get
the exact size. Knife lines must be used for the width and light gauge
lines for the depth of each notch.
[Illustration: Detail of the Bookrack]
Next lay out and cut joints between the stretchers and ends.
In each end there are four slats which should be mortised into the
rails 1/4 in. Glue the pieces in place and clamp them with handscrews.
A rubber-headed tack in the bottom of each post will prevent the marring
of the surface upon which the rack is to rest.
[Illustration: The Complete Bookrack]
Mission, weathered or fumed-oak stain will look well. A waxed finish
should be used. Before applying the wax, it is well to use a very thin
coat of shellac as a foundation. Let this coat stand for a few hours and
allow an interval of at least an hour between applying the coats of wax.
Should the rack wind a little, it may be remedied by cutting off part of
two diagonally opposite racks.