For years, we custom made these as the need arose. But Tom Witzig said, "Why can't you make them in a more economical way, making more at once in standard size?" Well, of course, we could. He helped us choose sizes by telling us his experiences and one of the blacksmiths developed the ability to make these quickly and for a reasonable price.
Used on 3 and 4 legged table bases, table spiders add strength and help prevent the legs from splaying. As tables age, the dovetails shrink and the legs can become more mobile than when they were first built?then the use of a spider becomes very important.
The legs of the spiders are long, so that if you wish to hammer yours to follow the inside contour of the leg, you will have plenty of length to work with. If you don't need the extra length, you can cut the leg off past the first screw hole. Raw iron finish, supplied with screws.
TS-5 is is the right size for a candlestand or a tip table, and even smaller pedestal base tables. From the center hole, the legs are 5" long and 1/4" wide at the narrowest point.
TS-6 is the right size for a large pedestal base, such as those used in large dining room tables. From the center hole, the legs are 6" long and 1/2" wide at the narrowest point.
Do you need a different size? Provide a pattern and we will make one to your specs.
Great product, January 7, 2021 By Anonymous (Chadds Ford, PA)(Verified)
I used this on the bottom of a Shaker sewing stand, plans from Becksvoort in Fine Woodworking. It was the perfect combination of strength and malleability, so it was easy to fit. I did cut the legs shorter and had to repaint the edges and scratches. I wish there had been an option to buy one with shorter legs. Minor point: The center of my spindle had a hole deeper than the screw length supplied, due to mounting in a jig for dovetail cutting. Any thought about putting one, one inch, matching screw in the package? Bottom line: This is a "life-saver" product for the average woodworker.
Perfect for Hancock Shaker Stands, January 20, 2020 By Anonymous (Lancaster, MA)(Verified)
As other reviewers have noted, the small version is perfect for the Hancock Shaker Stand. It bends easily enough to fit the curvature of the legs and comes with nice screws. Nice finish and well-machined screw holes. I've built two stands using these and plan to do more!
Very Nice! Perfect for the Shaker Stands!, January 18, 2019 By Anonymous (Lancaster, MA)(Verified)
Bought this after reading an article in Fine Woodworking about constructing Shaker stands. Perfect!
Includes recessed screw holes and slotted screws. Nice even finish. Thin enough to bend to the curve of the legs but thick enough to provide structural stability.
Seems pricey at first, but unless you are set up for metal working then I feel these are priced right. The quality is excellent.
Perfect, October 18, 2017 By Anonymous (Durango, CO)(Verified)
Was thinking I would have to find a machine shop or blacksmith to make the "spider" for my newly finished Chippendale Piecrust Tea Table. An internet search revealed nothing until I stumbled upon this product and it worked perfectly. It is strong, shaped and sized perfectly, and I was able to hand shape a slight bend to fit the shape to match the profile of the three legs to the center pedestal vase. Horton's customer service and product availability is Perfect. Have never encountered a "sorry, back order" at Horton Brasses.
