Ep 8. Stile and Rail Doors

Stile and rail doors are some of the most commonly used doors in the market. They are versatile, elegant, and fit into any interior design, making them a popular choice for both residential and commercial purposes. In season 26 episode 8 of How It's Made, viewers are taken behind the scenes to see how these doors are made, starting from the raw material to the finished product.

The episode kicks off with an introduction to the materials that are required to make stile and rail doors. The first and most crucial element is the wood. The host takes the viewers through different types of wood that can be used to make the doors, including mahogany, oak, and maple, depending on the desired finish. The type of wood used is selected based on the design and purpose of the door as some types of wood are more durable and sustainable than others.

Once the wood has been harvested, the next step is to mill it into the right sizes and shapes. This is done using a jointer, a planer, and a table saw, which are all carefully calibrated to ensure a precise cut. The host explains that each piece of wood that will make up the door must be cut at an angle of 45 degrees, as this is the standard angle for stile and rail doors.

The next stage involves assembling the parts of the door. This includes joining the rails and stiles that make up the door frame using a spline, a small piece of wood that fits into a groove. The host goes on to show how the door panels are then fitted into the frame using a tongue and groove system, which ensures a snug and secure fit. The panels add more visual flair to the door, and in some cases, they are made of glass or other transparent materials, allowing light to pass through.

After the door has been assembled, it is time to refine it to ensure that it is visually appealing and has a flawless finish. The host explains that this involves sanding the door to smooth out any rough spots or imperfections. The door is then stained or painted, depending on its intended use and position. In some cases, multiple coats of paint or finishing materials are applied, which can enhance the durability and longevity of the door.

The final stage of the process is the installation of the door hardware, such as the hinges, handles, and locks. The host explains that this is a delicate process that requires a great deal of precision and care to ensure that the door functions effectively and smoothly.

Throughout the episode, viewers are treated to up-close shots of the machinery, tools, and techniques used in the production process. They also get to see the raw materials transformed into a work of art that is both practical and beautiful.

In conclusion, How It's Made season 26 episode 8 is a fascinating look at the process of making stile and rail doors. The episode takes viewers through the entire process, from the selection of raw materials to the final finishing touches. It is an excellent resource for anyone interested in woodworking or those who want to learn more about the manufacturing process of stile and rail doors.