The
first thing to do is to read through the instructions and
print out the PDF
diagram so you can get an idea of the parts you will
be making and assembling and the materials you will need.
You can click on the link above or the thumbnail below
to get a full-sized printable version.
The
next step is to go to the lumber yard, or a well-stocked
hardware
or home supply store that carries lumber and pick up the supplies
you need. All of the materials are readily available
and
a list
is provided on the next page.
When
you pick out the materials for your cutting stand make sure
to choose a good "construction grade" wood. On the West Coast
a good, strong, and inexpensive choice is whatever type of Fir
is available in your area. Both Pine and Redwood are too soft
and may split in the area around the peg at the top of the stand.
Look for wood that is straight, no bends or twists, no cracks,
and has as few knots as possible. Also, try to find wood that
is dry. "Wet" boards will feel very heavy compared to the wood
that is drier. Lumber that has a high moisture content is more
likely to crack and split as time passes and it dries.
Unless
you have the equipment at home you should consider having the
lumber cut to size where you buy it. Even though you may have
to spend a few extra dollars you will end up with straight,
flat cuts that will make assembly easier and look more professional.
Before
you do any assembly make sure to sand off any sharp or rough
edges on the wood. Your tameshigiri stand will look better and
your chances of getting a nasty splinter now or later will be
greatly reduced.
A
power screwdriver will be very helpful for assembly but is
not absolutely necessary. If you will be using a hand screwdriver
then it is best to drive the screws all the way through each
leg before trying to attach them to the post. You can also
pre-drill the screw holes in the legs. If you will be using
lag bolts you will have to pre-drill the legs with a hole
just big enough for the lag bolt to pass through, and the
post with a hole 1/8"
smaller than the lag bolt diameter.
Step by Step Instructions and Pictures