A Simplified Guide to Custom Stairbuilding and Tangent Handrailing by George Di Cristina

A Simplified Guide to Custom Stairbuilding and Tangent Handrailing by George Di Cristina

In order to construct continuous climbing-turn handrail sections for a staircase, the basic elements of tangent handrailing must be understood. This guide to building custom staircases, including elliptical stairs and continuous incline stairs, explains the tangent principle for the advanced woodworker. Covering everything from locating risers in a curved stairway to the installation of balusters, this simple method enables the craftsperson to make distinctive, personalized stair and handrail designs that are not available from stock staircase companies.

George di Cristina began apprenticing in his father's stairbuilding shop in 1931 and has been a principal of J. di Cristina and Son ever since. He lives in Burlingame, California.