How the curtail tread is formed.
Just building this page, more coming in the next few days.
I do try to give an unbiased opinion when writing these pages but I have to say these are probably the most satisfying of steps to build. Their elegance with the Monkey’s tail set over them is always rewarding once completed.
This is a traditional way to construct the steps, with the curtail blocks to support the newel posts.
Once you have the handrail layout on plan, the step can be drawn using the centres that were used to describe the handrail.
The curtail ends are of solid construction to facilitate the fitting of the newel post, when this is not done the post may have lateral movement, this is not desirable and may lead to loosening of the handrail joints and spindles; even when the spindles are seated correctly.
Step parts.
The step components are connected in such a way that while looking delicate in design, maintain good stability to the handrail and strength within itself to prevent the curtail ends breaking free from the main tread.
There are varitations dependant on the stringer and staircase design that the curtail step is to be used for.
In this image I have shown the design for the start of a spiral flight.
The curtail design may change from one spiral to another dependant on how the walikng line is set out and wether the curtail is to be equal in going at both ends of the tread.
How the parts work.
3D model of the curtail step.
3D model with layer, see how the parts connect.
Draw the tread.
Once the handrail has been drawn the tread layout can be determined, once this has been achieved the individual components can templated for marking the stuff that will be used to make the parts.
Due to the size of stock available some pieces may need laminating to achieve the desired block for cutting that piece.
Preparing the components.
The curtail blocks.
The curtail blocks serve 2 main purposes.
They form the backing shape for the veneer to wrap around.
They give a solid fixing to help steady the newel post.