Balcony/Library Ladder

This is what I call a "balcony ladder". It is similar to the library ladders of old, but is hinged so that it can be stored in a horizontal position when not used.

The ladder legs are 5/4" popular that have been band sawn to create the bow. The steps are mortised into the legs.

The hinge is made from 2" brass rail parts and a 2" diameter cherry dowel rod.

The steps are secured between the legs with 1/4" solid brass rods that are threaded on the ends and fastened by brass acorn nuts with an Amerock solid brass knob backplate as the washers.

When not in use, a piano hinged shelf on the opposite wall flips up, and after the ladder is above it, drops down to support the ladder for horizontal storage. When people see it in this position the "Wow Factor" kicks in big time. A pulley system could be constructed using 1/4" sash cord and pulleys to support it from the ceiling instead of using a shelf.

The braces below 3 of the steps are intended to minimize racking - 3 sets seems to be the optimum number. They are not necessary meant to support weight - although they do.

The ladder pictured is a balcony ladder that is in what used to be my showroom / office. I am retired now and the cabinet displays have been replaced with a sitting area that includes an often used napping sofa.

For a tour of my shop and an explanation of how I retired from my cabinetmaking business at age of 50, go to the Shop Gallery and search Jerry Hillenburg & Co. or paste; http://www.woodweb.com/galleries/shop/posts/1425.html