Project Description/Inspiration:
Our project is to make a coffin-shaped shelf. The coffin would have the rough dimensions of 6’ x 3’ x 1’ with a hinged door. We want the shelves to be removable so that people could stand in the coffin. We also want to stain the exterior with a dark color. For additional features, we would add dark colored trim. For the dimensions of the coffin, we have found several good tutorials with detailed plans.
Research:
We researched suitable dimensions & calculate needed materials:
Once getting the materials and drawing out the outline, we revised the coffin to be 4” narrower.
ShopBot the Front and Back:
Due to the angles required for the front and back, we utilized the ShopBot. This was our first time using the ShopBot, meaning progress was slow. We used PartWorks to draw out the outline and then exported our file into the ShopBot software. After finally setting up the bot, we were ready to make our first side. Unfortunately, after 80% of the way into the cut we needed to stop the ShopBot as the end mill began to slide down and cut deep into the table. Our progress was halted for 2-3 days until the ShopBot could be fixed (sorry drew).
We then came back, double checked how to secure the endmill, and successfully cut the second panel. We also jigsawed the last part of the first panel.
Angled Cuts of Side:
Since the coffin had odd angles, we had to use the table saw to cut our side panels at an angle. This took a lot of thinking about geometry and then compensating for wrongly thinking of the geometry.
Sanding:
we did a lot of sanding.
Assembly:
we assembled using screws and woodglue.
Final Resting Place
Over two years after its’ creation, we set the coffin to it’s final resting place before our graduation.
