Ladder-Back Dining Chair

Take the challenge out of making the curved parts for these dining chairs by using templates and our step-by-step instructions.

Building chairs: just the thought of it brings out a certain uneasiness in many woodworkers. At first, the curved back leg and back slats may seem a little intimidating. But they’re fairly easy to cut by using a template to rough out the shape on a band saw. Then you can use the same template to smooth them on a router table. Woodworking is not the only challenge when building a chair. You also have to upholster the seat and this plan includes step-by-step directions to help you. But the thing I like most about this chair is sitting in it. The curved back fits a body’s shape nicely. And it’s a comfortable angle — straight enough for eating, yet comfortable for sitting.

These chairs have a matching table. See the Dining Table plan.

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What You Get:

  • 11 printable (digital) pages of step-by-step instructions
  • 60 full-color photos and illustrations
  • Cutting diagrams and materials list
  • Patterns for the curved parts
  • Shop-tested guarantee from the editors of Woodsmith magazine

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