Shinto Bar Stool

Build this elegant Shinto Bar Stool with lathe-turned legs, a shaped seat, and rock-solid joinery. A stylish, sturdy addition to any kitchen or bar.

Bring elegance and craftsmanship into your home with this Shinto Bar Stool woodworking plan, inspired by the clean lines and graceful curves of traditional Japanese Torii gates. This bar stool features a shapely contoured seat and tapered, lathe-turned legs that give it a distinctive yet minimalist profile. Strong mortise and tenon joinery combined with compound angles for rake and splay provide a solid, tip-resistant structure. The design balances visual appeal with functionality, making it a standout piece at a kitchen island, home bar, or counter-height table.

The plan walks you through every step — from milling the 8/4 seat blank to turning the legs, cutting precise mortises, and fitting the stretchers at compound angles. Thoughtful details like wedged tenons and a flush-trimmed seat surface elevate this from a basic build to a refined woodworking project. Use poplar, red oak, or any stable hardwood of your choice, then finish it with oil, paint, or wax to complement your home’s style. Whether you're looking for a modern DIY bar stool or a custom woodworking project with Japanese design influence, this plan delivers comfort, durability, and timeless style.

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What You Get:

  • 9 pages (digital) pages of step-by-step instructions
  • 23 full-color photos and illustrations and explosed views
  • Materials list and retail hardware sources

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