ROCKING CHAIRS
ALLEN WOODWORKING
Located in
EAST BERLIN, PA  17316
1-717-624-9011
info@allenwoodworking.com
One of my favorite items to make are rocking chairs.  
Rocking chairs are perhaps the most difficult and
challenging items to make, given all the components that
must fit together and function properly.  Boring holes at
the correct angle are extremely important.  For the
majority of holes, especially the larger ones for the legs
and back support, I only use a brace and auger bit.  I find
I am better able to control the accuracy of the multiple
angles by boring these holes by hand.

I've been developing my own style of rockers based on
classic designs.  Below are some of those I've made.

                   click on images to enlarge
Boston Rocking Chair
detail, cherry rocking chair
cherry rocker
cherry rocking chair
detail cherry rocker
This was made for some local folks using their own lumber.    It is from a 300 year old cherry tree off
their land in Michigan.

About this style of rocker:
  • It has an even number of back spindles to allow for a comfortable sit so your spine doesn't rub.
  • The seat has the grain running from side to side, double thick at the front, giving superior strength.  
  • The leg tenons are foxwedged into the seat, creating a very strong joint.
This is the same style rocker made from black walnut.
detail, walnut rocking chair
walnut rocking chair
detail, walnut rocking chair
detail, walnut rocker
detail, walnut rocker
detail, walnut rocking chair
oak rocking chair
This is a design I've been modifying
over the years. There are no spindles or
other turnings.  It is a solid and
comfortable chair and does not require
stretchers.  This one is a prototype made
in red oak, but it would be best in either
cherry, walnut and mahogany.
walnut rocking chair
This is another adaptation of the Boston
Rocker.  This has a curved upward
section on the rear of the seat where the
spindles are mounted.  This rocker is
also made from black walnut.
cherry rocking chair