How to Design a stool

Dec 11, 2004 3 Replies

Does anyone know what should the foot print size of a stool be in relation to the seat. I.e. If the seat is 9"x18" should I make the legs hit the floor at 11"x20" or more for a height of 36" (approximately)?


"Richard T. Scott" wrote

: Does anyone know what should the foot print size of a stool be in relation : to the seat. I.e. If the seat is 9"x18" should I make the legs hit the floor : at 11"x20" or more for a height of 36" (approximately)?

I made a Windsor chair whose legs splayed beyond the seat profile.

It eventually was destroyed because we were constantly kicking/tripping on the ends of the legs.

I think that one's eyes base the chair's space on the seat dimensions.

It might be worth adding that an overhang on a stool top is not a good idea since people might be tempted to stand on it and tip it, and themselves over.

Jeff G

Sat, Dec 11, 2004, 7:49am (EST+5) snipped-for-privacy@clara.co.uk (POP_Server=pop.clara.net) says: It might be worth adding that an overhang on a stool top is not a good idea since people might be tempted to stand on it and tip it, and themselves over.

Yep, sounds good in theory, but it still won't stop idiots. People stand in rockng chairs, so I don't figure a small top on a stool is gonna slow them down, they'll probably just lay a chunk of wood on top, to make more foot room.

I use a folding chair in my small shop. As a space saver, yeah, but it's also sturdy, and steady, enough to stand on, those few times I need it so. Besides, with a back on it, it's a whole lot more comfortable than any stool.

JOAT Remember: Nova is Avon, spelled backwards.

yeah, I prefer a chair... I have a couple of cheapy auto parts store stools that shop visitors like, and a couple of padded folding chairs for the rare times I sit..

I should probably build a few small a-frame stools, since the favorite perch in the shop for most folks is probably the 2' step ladder... lol

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