Building and Assembling a Writing Slope

Ever Wonder How We Construct a Writing Slope?

For those of you have been wondering how we do this, we have taken a few pictures of a work in progress.

Now, this page is not intended as a complete instruction guide on how to build and assemble a writing slope. Our intention is to show how some of the parts are cut and routed so that the pieces and parts fit together.

At this point, the interior compartment parts are in place, the lid, base and sides have been glued in place. We then cut the entire box apart, at a precise angle, using our JET bandsaw. See a breakdown of the parts below ...

Here are most of the Parts for Building a Writing Slope with Finger Joints

(top, bottom and interior panels not shown)
Parts to Build a Writing Slope

Pieces and Parts for the Inkwell & Pen Compartments

Slots are Routed for Proper Fit and Placement of the Parts

Fitting the Sides to the Back Compartments

(top & bottom not shown)
Fitting the Sides to the Back Compartments

Once Assembled Box is Cut at an Angle on a 12" Bandsaw

Important: Back side must be cut dead center for proper fit. Our slopes are cut at a 7° angle (approx.).
Top of inkwell compartment helps to determine the final angle.

Parts Assembled for a Writing Slope

Leveling Out Inside Box Surface

Using a sanding table to level out inside box framework

We purchased 100 and 80 grit sanding belts, cut in to and mounted to each side of a section of plywood. Then using this sanding table, we rotate surface edges to level out inside box framework.
Parts Assembled for a Writing Slope

Once the basic box is complete, all the other details such as drawers, panels, hidden compartments, inlays, pen cradles, etc are added to the design. Each writing slope we build is unique in it's own way based on the clients specifications.

At this Point the Writing Slope is Ready for the Finishing Process

The mini drawer and hidden compartment boxes have been custom fit for the slope. The panels are veneer sheets trimmed with solid wood, each custom-fitted for the front and back compartments. A pen cradle/pen compartment lid is designed for two pens. All parts are now ready for the finishing touches. We like to use Tung Oil finish for the wood. Leather is available for the writing panels inside.

The Finished Writing Slope

We have applied several coats of Tung Oil Finish to the wood. The client chose Blackberry Leather with "E" tooling for the writing panels. Antique hardware, including bail handles, complete this project.

» View: Finished Writing Slopes » View: Unfinished Writing Slopes