The week before our daughter Helen was born I started working on a kids sled.
I got as far roughing out two runners and braces. Recently I was able to get some more work done on the project.
I am experimenting with bending wood. I will use bentwood for the sides of the sled.
After researching bentwood in a reference book I have (Canadian Woods- their properties and uses pg 93 - published 1951 by Forestry Branch(Canadian Government)) I found that hardwoods are recommended over softwoods for bending.
As a rule of thumb, the book suggests a ratio of 1/40 for the thickness-to-bend radius ratio.
I selected a 6.25" radius for the side pieces. For the purposes of this calculation lets use 6" for an example 6/40 = 0.15 " My individual strips are approx. about 3/32" or .09" This should work.
I did not actually measure the strips.Instead I, put my stock on the table saw(not running)
between the blade and the fence. I brought the fence up to the stock. Engaged the fence lock, removed the stock. Then I moved the fence 3/16" closer to the blade, engaged the fence lock again and cut my strip of wood. A zero clearance plate is highly recommended for the procedure.
I use a Freud rip blade.
The ultimate test of how thick or thin your strips are is to dry bend them over your radius template. If you can hold all strips over the intended curve without breaking them you are good to go. I used maple and walnut in alternating positions to make my test piece. Yellow glue(Elmers Pro Bond) glued the pieces together. The test piece turned out very well. I was impressed with the results.
Stay tuned for the completion of this sled:)
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