My wife was invited to a University (very top drawer) formal function. She had nominated a family friend for the Alumni Hall of Fame. He was selected (rightfully deserved) and my wife joined his family at the induction table. His wife (a business client of mine) mentioned to my wife, after dinner remnants were removed, “I think of your husband every time I’m naked in the shower”. My wife, with a deadpan expression, replied, “As do I”. The two women laughed heartily, at the expense of the alarmed and clueless table guests and the shocked husband-honoree.
I was commissioned to build a stool (in the title photo) for the delightfully brash lady. My wife knew this and had watched the construction of the stool. This was a special request for a platform used for shaving legs. The height, spread of the legs and seat size were specific for my client’s needs. I chose materials that would fit the circumstance. The top of course is made from Cedar heart. The legs are also cedar heart-wood limbs. The attachment plate is Poplar and the stringers are made of copper wire.
The seat is aged, Sun dried and saturated with Tung oil. The legs are untreated, doweled through the attachment (Poplar) plate and secured with cedar wedges. The plate is attached to the seat with treated decking screws and sealed with a polyurethane. Notice the bevel on the design to repel water collection between the two wood layers.
I became interested in stools when I commissioned a hand-made stool from a friend/craftsman. Here is my prize. The seat is a single block of Poplar, hand shaped with a spoke shave. The legs (White Oak) were turned on a home made lathe and attached (doweled through and wooden wedge fastened). I use this stool everyday for work and leisure.
There is a stool in our living room that was purchased in 1897 by my wife’s great uncle as an accessory to a Steinway upright. I have examined this stool carefully in case I am asked to repair one. It is a heavy and beautiful item.
I want to add one more “tool” we all may be familiar with. The mechanics rolling platform-stool. The one pictured is from Granger’s (online tool selection). There are many different types, colors, uses, etc. I don’t endorse or intend to ever get one. Mechanics swear by them for the right reason; it’s a necessary tool in the shop.
Think about the stool and it’s role in your world. Dentist, milk maids, even A Christmas Carol’s Tiny Tim use a stool. Something to ponder.
Thanks for your time.
Ps. The two wives let the honored husband in on the joke. He doesn’t have to wonder where the stool came from any longer. At my age, I’m glad to know I can make a naked woman appreciate my skills. I don’t even have to attend the event.