Medieval Book Turntable

This Instructable will show how to build a 15th century book turntable. They were used in study and translation, such as comparing multiple translations of the bible at once. This one has the added features of having a book light and including storage space (a shelf beneath and a compartment in body of book stand).

This is a real conversation piece to have in a library or study, as well as being of genuine use. I had read about this a long time ago, and decided to build one after my grandmother had a neck injury and was unable to look down while in a neck brace. It worked great, and has continued to be of use after she got better.

This is a medium difficulty project which took me a full weekend of free time to finish (what with time to stain, paint, etc.), with an estimated cost of $112.38+tax. (assuming everything is bought new and you do not have anything already on hand)

See below for a painting of a real book turntable in use from the church of St. Peter. (Footnote 1)

Notes:
1. Clark, John Willis. The Care of Books. London: C.J. Clay and Sons, 1901. Project Gutenberg. Web. 8 July 2012.

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Step 1: Materials and safety

See below for a parts list for this project. Except as noted, all prices and item/model numbers come from Lowe's website. If you search their website for any of the model numbers below, it will take you right to that item's page.

1) 6-32x3/4 Machine Bolts w/nut - $0.98 (Item #: 57832, Model #: 491281)

2) 6-32x1 Machine Bolts w/nut - $0.98 (Item #: 57833, Model #: 491282)

3) #8 Flat Washers - $0.98 (Item #: 58122, Model #: 490685)

4) 3/4" x 1/2" Corner Braces - $1.97 (Item #: 315714, Model #: DPB115)

5) 1" x 1" Hinges - $2.48 (Item #: 311945, Model #: 890327) 4 packs of 4

6) Gatehouse Polished Brass Latch - $2.37 (Item #: 311957, Model #: 890269)

7) 1/4" 2' x 4' Birch - $8.44 (Item #6197)

8) 1"x18" Stain Grade Edge-Glued Round - $10.97 (item #1016, Model #1031199)

9) WHW Accent Egg & Dart 1" x 8' molding - $12.46 (Item #161632, Model # 681-8WHW)

10) WHW Accent Scallop 1-1/2" x 8' molding - $13.80 (Item #161624, Model #95-8WHW)

11) Corner Block 4-1/2" square - $3.10 (Item #107575, Model #B740CWHW)

12) PNE UNIV BSE IS 600 6-1/2" (base blocks) - $1.48 (#0224049) 4 needed

13) Minwax Quart English Chestnut Stain - $7.77 (Item #: 74476, Model #: 700444444)

14) Gorilla Glue - $4.99 (Item #: 152243, Model #: 50002)

15) FolkArt Enamels Paint, 2 oz 660 Metallic Pure Gold - about $1.99 from Walmart (Item #004453544, Model #K4129)

16) Plaid Decorative Icon Stencils, 4" - about $3.99 form Walmart (Item #004453829, Model #30620)

17) Bar Stool Swivel (6-3/8"SQ) - $14.80 from Twin Supply (Product ID: 280-1056)

18) Flexible LED Black Reading Light/Flashlight/Task Light by Checkolite- $6.95 from Amazon (Model #B1010-21-FBA)

Safety:
This project will involve the use of power tools, including an electric drill and a jigsaw (or equivalent). Please be sure that you are aware of all requirements of using your particular tool (reference user manuals), and wear all appropriate protective equipment (safety glasses, gloves, etc.).
This project will also make use of certain chemicals such as stain, paint, and glue. Be sure to use these in well ventilated areas, and use face masks/gloves as needed.