How to Make a Gooseneck

Gooseneck molding is often found on grandfather clocks.

Gooseneck refers to an s-shaped molding often found on the tops of grandfather clocks, tall dressers and Queen Anne-style furniture. It is also sometimes called swan's neck molding. The gooseneck molding requires several tools to complete, but the s-shaped decorative molding makes furniture look much fancier. Make the molding out of wood or fiberboard. Create the molding as part of a new piece you are making, or match the food and add or replace molding on an existing piece of furniture.

Things You'll Need

• Wood
• Tape measure
• Marker
• Band saw
• Router
• Sandpaper

Instructions

1. Measure the length of wood you need for your gooseneck "s." Cut the block of wood with the bandsaw to the correct length. Cut so the direction of the wood grain is the same as the piece for which you are making the molding.

2. Draw the "s" shape on the block of wood with the marker. Cut along the marked line with the bandsaw. Smooth the cut edge with sandpaper.

3. Shape the cove along the edge of the "s" with the router or shaper. Change tools and shape the ogee. Change tools and shape the roundover on the bottom edge of the molding.

4. Smooth the finished routed edge lightly with sandpaper. Cut off excess wood with the bandsaw. Repeat the steps to make the "s" gooseneck for the opposite side of the piece.

References

• MLCS Woodworking: Gooseneck Moulding
• Amana Tool: Gooseneck Moldings
• C. John Hebert Custom Woodworking: Swan Neck

Resources

• Legacy Woodworking: Wall Clock