1. Assemble the frames for each side of the activity gauge and drill two countersunk pilot holes through the legs and into each cross piece. Apply glue to the mating surfaces and screw the pieces together.

2. Glue the work surfaces to the frames so that the top and both sides are flush. Trim with a sanding block or hand plane if necessary.

3. For the flat shelf and angled shelf, assemble the frames and drill two countersunk pilot holes through the sides and into each cross piece. Apply glue to the mating surfaces and screw the pieces together.

4. Glue the angled shelf top to the angled shelf frame and the flat shelf bottom to the flat shelf frame, making sure they are flush with the frames. For extra strength, secure them with 1” nails.

5. Position the flat shelf on one of the activity gauge frames so that the two work surfaces meet at a right angle and drill two countersunk pilot holes in each side where the pieces overlap. Apply glue to the mating surfaces and screw the shelf in place.

6. Hold the two sides of the activity gauge together and screw on two hinges at the top.

7. Place the flat shelf in position with the activity gauge set up, and mark a line across the leg on each side, matching the top edge of the shelf frame. Measure down ⅜” from this line and ⅜” in from the inside edge of the leg. At this point, drill a ¼” hole through both the leg and shelf frame on both sides of the activity gauge. With a washer on each side, insert the ¼” bolt through the hole on each leg and secure the bolt with the nut. This will allow the ends of the shelf to swing up so the activity gauge can be folded flat.

Minimum tools you require

• Hand Saw

• Screwdriver

• Drill

Options

• Make the Activity Centre wider to accommodate more than one child per side.

Tip

• Use a mitre box to cut the pieces square.