The Hanger Strips

You will probably have to rip these strips from stock. To do this, select a working face on your stock (Chapter II., Paragraph 2), plane a working edge (Chapter II., Paragraph 4); gauge the desired width on both surfaces (Chapter II., Paragraph 6). Rip just outside the gauge lines, and plane to the lines. In like manner rip out and plane the required number of strips. In preparing one of the hanger strips, first plane it perfectly square, the desired size (Chapter II., Paragraphs 2, 3 and 4), then plane it to the proper taper. With the lead pencil and finger, gauge for the chamfer on each corner (Chapter II., Paragraph 8). As the chamfer does not extend the full length of the strip, you cannot complete it with the plane. You will have to use a pocketknife or drawingknife. Chamfer all of the corners equally so the end will be an octagon in shape. Be sure to leave the corners distinct and straight. In like manner prepare all the hanger strips. Near the larger end of each hanger strip bore holes for the screws (Chapter II., Paragraph 9). Be sure the holes for the screws are large enough to allow the screws to pass through freely.

Assembling

Notice that the center hanger strip is to be made stationary by having two screws. Each of the other strips will have but one screw. Fasten the center strip first, then place the other strips in position and lay out for the boring. Bore through the top with the same sized bit with which you bored through the hanger strips. Use a smaller bit to bore in the bottom piece, for the screws must tighten in it. After all the work is assembled, make sure that all the strips will spread easily. If they will not, remove the screws, and very slightly plane any of the strips which are too tight. When raised ready for use, the rack is to be held in position by a small hook and screw eye, as shown in the drawing; this hook should be sufficiently tight to hold the hangers rigid in a horizontal position; it may be tightened or loosened by turning the screw eye. It will require careful work to get this project properly assembled. You may have to experiment and adjust it somewhat.

Finishing

With a sharp scraper (Chapter II., Paragraph 16), wood file and sandpaper, remove all pencil or tool marks; see that the work is perfectly smooth all over. It should be finished with shellac (Chapter IV., Paragraph 57).

Optional and Home Projects Employing Similar Principles.

Wash Cloth Rack

1. Suggestion No. 1 shows a very convenient plan of constructing a hanger which is particularly suited to the lavatory for a wash cloth rack. For this purpose it should be finished with white enamel.

Dish Towel Rack

2. No. 2 in the suggestion presents a simple plan for a folding rack. This will be particularly suitable in places where room is limited. It should be made of hard wood and neatly finished.