This small bench is made from a single piece of solid wood, based on a very old design from ancient China. Only a few craftspeople still know how to make it, so it took considerable time to figure out the correct dimensions and proportions of the moving parts.
When it is unfolded, it is a mini bench, I can sit on it if I made it a little bit bigger. When it is folded, it is just a wood block, people used to use it as a pillow, but I won’t, it was a complex design challenge.
It is made from one piece of solid walnut, as visible from the end grain. The original blank measures 12″L × 3-1/2″W × 1-7/8″T. The finished thickness is 1/8″ less, explained below.
No glue, no reassemble, all the shapes are cut by chisels and saws.
A 1/2″ mortise chisel was used to cut the triangular mortises, and a band saw to rip the layers, which accounts for the reduced final thickness. A plunge-cutting saw completed the through-mortises.
Side elevation. If you want to make a similar one, you can use my proportion. The mortises in the middle are 2″ L * 1/2″W * 5/8″ D; and the side ones are: 1″L * 1/2″W * 5/8″D
The following are unfolding process:
1, unfold the two main parts, they will form the bench top and part of the legs.
2, unfold the two tiny legs
3, Squeeze legs with bench tops together, they will form a stable support structure.
4, Let it stand on itself. Transforming is done.
From the top elevation, you can see the gaps in the middle.
Some more details about the joinery,
Finished with beeswax for a warm colour and smooth feel.
Gallery
