Dave's Highboy
The creation of the timbers
First we need to clamp the rough log. Here the calibrated paint can proves invaluable.
Here's the whole 12 footer. Both ends must be trimmed to find good wood in the center.
The clamping depends on the V-shape cradles at both ends. Here you can just see the wedges under the log.
Now, the log is cut to length.
To form the round tenons on the ends, a hole saw is used define the outer diameter.
Now the outer layer must be cut free. The slim shim, in the groove cut by the hole saw, is a telltale. When the handsaw cuts through the outer layer, it hits the shim and it's time to roll the log and cut further along.
Here's the log with the outer layer partially cut away.
Here's the whole round tenon exposed.
Now we cut away the shoulders to give the rustic look.
And smooth some of the rougher edges from the chopping.
Now, a belt sander is used to smooth the surface from the debarking process. First 50 grit, then 80. That's smooth enough for this stage. The sanding cradle also uses wedges to secure the log in place.