How do I make columns

[les]

This question was previously a reply to another question, but I thought it might be better to through it out to the forum.

I am interested in making a column, but I am unclear on how to do this. I would like the column to be about 12 inches in diameter at the base and 8 inches at the top , 10 feet high, hollow and round. The "round" part is where most of the trouble comes in. I can understand how to make a multi-sided column, although this raises the question of how to cut small *accurate* angle on several long, skinny pieces of wood. If I am off even a fraction of a degree on each board, multiply this by several boards and by the time I get to the last board it's not going to fit. If I figure a way to cut these angles, and get my multi-sided column together, how do I get the corners off? The only way I can thing of is by hand using a spoke-shave, which would take an eternity. I am guessing there is a way to do this with a router, although I don't know how.

My tool list includes a cheap table saw, cheap fixed base router(1/4") w/table, drill press, a really nice 12" miter saw, scroll saw, planer and lathe. I also have access to a band saw and a jointer.

[Glen]

Les,

This is going to be a bit long winded.

This may or maynot be bad news but the best tools for this job
are the TS and router.
First go to www.eagle-america.com they have router bits to create acurate bevels for even an dodecagon (12 sided poygon) the more sides the less shaving you'll have to do to get round. The trade off is handling and error multiplication. Next you'll have to make your staves. I would make a jig\sled for the TS to rip them.
Then run the router over them (or preferably with a router table having extensions for support)and bevel them. I would think a min would be an octagon. A few biscuits in the larger areas may help facilitate handling\construction. And the only practical way to round them is with a plane. Unless your into building jigs, realy big ones.
Truthfully; for your efforts and cost I would strongly buy them.



Glen

[Lou_williams]

Depending on the kind of wood and the amount to remove, I would use a rasp plane to get the basic round shape and then sand smooth. I think that you could get it round and smooth in about an hour for each. Hope this helps.

Lou

[Tom D]

A realy quick way to round off large objects like columns is with a draw knife. A good sharp draw knife can take large bites or very thin shavings very quickley. I split logs and then round them off for chair and table legs this way before I put them on the lath. It is very fast way to remove alot of wood quickley..