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Entry 6 – Cleat Construction

Entry 6 – Cleat Construction

The cleat functions in the same way that nautical cleats are used to retain rigging.  The difference being only that this is made from an unusual assortment of materials, and thankfully does not require the strength that those of a sailing vessel would demand.  Thus, we can concern ourselves more with the aesthetics of our fastening.

In use narrow rope is wound about the cleat in a figure of eight pattern to hold it fast.  In this design a small section of copper pipe is shaped using three clamps and some spacing shims.  It is mounted to a uniquely cut backing board, made from the old fencepost.

A centred hole punch on a short length of 15mm copper makes drilling an attachment point easy.

The centre hole achieved. This section had a solder joint removed, leaving behind a pleasant band of silver.

This wire was removed from the old post before tidying it up with the plane or making any cuts.

A hand plane is used to reveal the inner beauty.

The shape of the cleat is formed onto the fencepost using clamps and shims.

Clamps removed, the cleat is now ready to be mounted on the eucalyptus backing.

Coping saw, spokeshave and sand paper are used to produce the desired finish and shape. This piece had a particularly pleasing wavy interlinking grain pattern.

A small screw is put through the backing piece to prevent the cleat from rotating about the central bolt fastening.

This is the rear of the cleat backing. A larger hole is used to recess the nut, so that the backing can lay flat upon the wall.

Ready for some final finishing, with a home blend of oils to preserve and enliven the already beautiful wood.