Viking Chiar, Camp fire chair, or star gazing chair
The Viking chair, also known as a Bog chair, camp fire chair or stargazer chair, is a simple yet striking piece of furniture that dates back to ancient times. With its minimalist design and rustic charm, the Viking chair is not only functional but also a great conversation starter. Best of all, it’s easy to build with just a few tools and materials. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the steps to create your own Viking chair, perfect for outdoor gatherings, camping trips, or even your living room.
What Is a Viking Chair?
A Viking chair is a traditional piece of furniture made from two pieces of wood that interlock to form a sturdy seat. Its design is both simple and ingenious, requiring no screws, nails, or glue. The chair is often used for outdoor seating, as it is easy to assemble and disassemble, making it portable and practical.
Materials and Tools Needed
To build your Viking chair, you’ll need the following materials and tools:
- Two wooden boards (1.5-2 inches thick)
- Seat board: Approximately 10-12 inches wide, 36-48 inches long
- Backrest board: Approximately 10-12 inches wide, 42-48 inches long
- Saw (circular saw or hand saw)
- Chop Saw
- Jig Saw
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Pencil or chalk
- Sandpaper or a sander
- Optional: Rounder with rounder over bit
- Optional: Wood stain, paint, or sealant for finishing
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Wood
- Select the Wood: Choose sturdy, durable wood such as oak, pine, or cedar. Ensure the boards are straight and free of major knots or cracks.
- Cut to Size: If the boards are not already the correct size, use your saw to cut the seat and backrest boards to the desired lengths.
Step 2: Mark and Cut the Backrest Slot
- Measure the Slot: On the backrest board, measure and mark a slot that will fit the seat board. The slot should be centered about 12-18 inches from the bottom of the board.
- Width: The width of the slot should match the thickness of the seat board (usually 1.5-2 inches).
- Length: The length of the slot should be approximately 7-7.25 inches.
- Cut the Slot: Use your saw to carefully cut along the marked lines, creating a slot for the seat board to slide through. Ensure the slot is straight and smooth, as this will determine how well the pieces fit together.
Step 3: Shape the Seat Board
- Taper the End: To make the chair more comfortable, you can taper the top end of the seat board where it will meet the backrest. Use your saw to cut a slight angle on the top edge (about 15-20 degrees). This will help the seat rest snugly against the backrest.
- Round the Corners: If desired, round off the corners of the seat board to give it a smoother, more finished appearance. This will also make it more comfortable on the back of the legs while seated.
Step 4: Sand the Wood
- Smooth the Edges: Use sandpaper or a sander to smooth all the edges and surfaces of both boards. Pay special attention to the slot and any rough spots where the wood was cut.
- Finish the Wood: If you want to protect the wood or give it a polished look, apply a wood stain, paint, or sealant. Allow the finish to dry completely before assembling the chair.
Step 5: Assemble the Viking Chair
- Slide the Seat Board: Slide the seat board through the slot in the backrest board. The tapered end should be at the top, resting against the backrest, while the bottom end sits on the ground.
- Adjust the Fit: Ensure that the seat board fits snugly in the slot and that the chair feels stable. You can adjust the angle of the seat board by sliding it up or down slightly within the slot.
Step 6: Enjoy Your Viking Chair
Your Viking chair is now ready to use! It’s perfect for outdoor lounging, camping, or simply adding a rustic touch to your home. When not in use, the chair can be easily disassembled and stored flat, making it convenient for transport and storage.
Conclusion
Building a Viking chair is a rewarding and straightforward DIY project that requires minimal materials and tools. With its unique design and functional simplicity, the Viking chair is a piece of history that you can enjoy in your modern life. Whether you’re an experienced woodworker or a beginner looking for a fun project, this chair is sure to be a satisfying and useful addition to your space. You can also create many different finishes and shapes – the backrest you could get really creative with and create a shape, or letter or design at the top to make it uniquely yours!
Happy crafting!
