Brownstone security gate - dry fit closed

February 19, 2014
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Before I could put the front steps together, I needed to address security for the lower level entrance. Wrought iron gates seem to be the norm.

I started with a gate that Keli sent me a long time ago. Using a carpenter's square as a guide for the wall and ground, I altered the two original pieces to create a complete iron door. I glued the pieces together using wood glue.

To get it to function, I cut three lengths of 1/8" x 1/8" strip wood. I installed hinges between the two left posts. I carved recesses for the hinges, drilled pilot holes with a mini drill, added a thin layer of super glue gel to help secure the hinges and then pushed the tiny nails into the pilot holes. Once I had the hinges functioning smoothly, I glued the gate to the right hand post.

I covered the existing lock detail with wood veneer to mimic a lock box. The back piece is flush with the gate, but the front piece hangs over a little to catch the adjacent post. I added a pair of French door handles from Mary's Miniatures.

It's 39° outside...let's go spray paint! Okay, maybe not...it's also dark outside. I don't need to have this finished and installed to move forward. I just needed to figure out the basic fit.