Shaped Footstool – Classic and Curvy

Article 72: Shaped Footstool – Classic and Curvy

By: A Woodworker Who Loves to Sculpt by Hand

This little stool has charm and function. It introduces gentle curves, splayed legs, and edge chamfering—all essential skills for furniture shaping.

Materials

• 1" hardwood (oak, cherry, or maple) – 10" × 16"

• 1" dowels or turned legs – 3 @ 10" (splayed)

• Wood glue

• Oil finish or shellac

Tools Needed

• Jigsaw or bandsaw (for shaping top)

• Drill (angle jig helpful)

• Spokeshave or rasp (for curves)

• Sander

• Mallet

Steps

1. Shape the Top

   • Sketch and cut a gentle kidney or oval shape. Smooth with rasp/spokeshave.

2. Drill Leg Holes

   • Use angled jig to drill 10°–15° splay in two directions.

3. Install Legs

   • Glue and tap legs into holes. Optional: wedge for stronger joinery.

4. Chamfer Edges

   • Use hand plane or router to soften underside edges for lightness.

5. Finish

   • Apply shellac, tung oil, or beeswax for a soft glow.

Sketch – Top View (Shaped Footstool)

   ____________
  /            \
 /              \ ← Curved edges
 \              /
  \____________/
     •   •   •   ← Leg positions (triangle)