How-to build Log Adirondack Chairs

Have you ever wanted to build your own log Adirondack Chairs but were unsure how? Now it is as easy as watching our youtube videos and following along.

Just follow along for the next few weeks as craftsman Gary Klifman, owner of Mountain Time Chairs in Crested Butte, Colorado, shows you every step in the process of building these beautiful log Adirondack chairs.

Watch How-to build Log Adirondack Chairs now.

Pairing and Measuring Sideframe Logs
This is probably the most important step in building your log adirondack chair.
This step defines how the chair will look, feel, and withstand harsh weather conditions.

Tools Required
-Tape measure

There are four logs to each sideframe, and they need to be paired according to their curve
and characteristics. For each set of arms, back legs, front legs, and back supports, the pairing
process should involve the following. This is for the assembly of one pair of sideframes, for one chair.

1) Turn the logs so that any pronounced bowing or curves are mirrored. This is to ensure that the
curves are matching on either side of the chair, as the curve will be reflected in the same inward
or outward direction. Otherwise, any two logs will curve the same direction, resulting in sideways
leaning chair.

2) Always look at the log and it’s intention, then look for ‘checks’ in the skyward facing side of the log. For example, if you are marking for drilling of an arm log, don’t drill so the top of the arm has a crack that could expose the log to damage from moisture seeping into and staying in the log. Also very important is not to drill directly into a deep check as it will result in a weak joint.

3) Mark for holes 16″ from the tenon end for each 20″ arm, 25″ back leg, 27″ front leg, and 30″ back.

Unfinished Log Adirondack Chair Kit

Drilling Tenon Holes

Tools Required
-Powerfull Drill
-1 1/2″ Self-feeding wood bit.
-Secure table clamp
-Tape Measure

When drilling tenon holes, make sure you have a drill powerful enough to turn a 1 1/2″ self-feeding wood bit.
Be aware that a self-feeding bit on a powerful drill will grab and turn aggressively. The two most important things to remember are to Hold On, and Make Sure to put the drill in reverse when backing out after drilling in. Regardless if you are pulling up, the self-feeding bit will continue to drill into the log if the drill is in forward.

Secure the log in the table clamp with your mark facing directly up. Drill a 1 1/2″ deep hole. You can put a piece of tape on your drill to look at and ensure you don’t go deeper than 1 1/2″.

Hold the drill at exactly 90 deg and do not tilt at all when drilling. This is an eyeball estimate, do your best, mastering drill alignment and exact hole depth comes with experience.

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