The Technique of FURNITURE MAKING
Butler’s trays
This old form of carrying tray was usually made in two forms: a tall variety on X legs with a turned centre spindle connecting the legs, and the low stool variety illustrated in 529. The
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528 Preformed tray with bent plywood base and solid sides and ends. Designed by Ernest Joyce MSIA |
former were about 29 in (737 mm) high and the latter 18 in (457 mm) high, with an elliptical top about 39 in (981 mm) by 30 in (762 mm) when fully opened. The fixed top was usually panelled to prevent casting, but modern versions are veneered plywood, etc. with the wings in carefully matched solid wood. The ellipse should be laid out as described under Workshop geometry, Chapter 40, and the wings are connected with ordinary back flap hinges. If the hinges work too easily, allowing the wings to fall from the upright carrying position, they can be set very fractionally askew to stiffen the movement. The stool is framed up in the orthodox manner and the top secured with shrinkage plates. Figure 529:1 shows the tray in the carrying position and 529:2 with the wings down.
