The latest steam bending experiment worked very well – steaming a piece of cherry in a pipe and using an array of clamps to hold it in shape in a former, all master minded by Terry. The result was a perfect curve for the top of the door frame, to match that from a late Saxon door from Hadstock in Essex.

The double skin door also had its hinges attached (temproarily with screws) and miraculously fitted almost perfectly first time – well done Nic! The screws will now be replaced with bolts and roves.

The outside of the 2 plank thick door

Hinges attached and snug fit achieved

clamping the cherry roundwood in place after steaming

gradually bringing the two side of the former together

Nic praying to the plane God for a snug door fit