Hall bench plans and questions

[Los_Lobos]

Hello everyone, gave a person a bid on a hall bench, wifes friend, bid it pretty high because I was rushed and really had no plan or idea for it, thinking she would not want it, turns out money is not an issue and now have to build it! She wants a light colored wood with grain and spindles for the back. Seat lifts for storage underneath.
1. Would white oak work? Have a bunch on hand already.
2. Need a plan or idea for this, have searched the net, book store and library,not found much with spindles for a back. Anyone have a plan or way I could figure this out?
3. Measurements are 42" L X 32" H X 20" W

Thanks, Les

[Ruffnek]

I think White Oak would work great, as would Ash.
As for the plan, since you have the dimensions, just find a bench that you like and substitute spindles for the back. It should be a pretty straightforward design change.

If I wasn't at work, I would do some net searching for you but their internet filters limit whaere I can go. I do know that Norm built a hall bench on the NYW. All of his plans are still available on the NYW web site. You might take a look there.

Oh yeah, congratulations on the commission.

[Stretch]

Here's my best advice on dealing with questions of what wood to use on a commission. Always, always, always let the client choose this from a finish sample. Make a finish sample from the wood you propose to use and get the client's approval. (I make them sign) Then, when you finish the piece, make look just like the finish sample. Then there are no surprises when you deliver the commission. As for the design, I usually rough out an overall design with pencil and paper, then make a scale drawing and work out the joinery. Once the scale drawing is done, I submit it to the client for approval. (Again I make them sign)

[art3427]

Do what Mark said with one addition - get 1/2 your money up front. That way you can operate on their dime instead of yours. Once project has been completed have them approve at your shop and pay balance before initiating delivery.

art