The Seedling Seat: Cultivate Your Own Peaceful Reading Nook

Hey there! I'm Carla, and welcome to my instructable. As part of my school project in Digital Fabrication and Design, I set out to create something that blended creativity, comfort, and craftsmanship. That’s how the idea for The Seedling Seat came to life—a cozy reading nook designed to nurture a love for books and relaxation.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through my design process and how I made this unique piece from scratch, using Autodesk Fusion, a CNC machine and a bit of inspiration from nature. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast, a book lover, or just looking for a peaceful corner to unwind, I hope this project sparks your creativity and inspires you to create your own tranquil retreat!

Problem Definition:

Develop a snug, cocoon-like seating solution for reading, featuring integrated ambient lighting and versatility for use in different reading positions.

2 Sheets 4'x8' 3/4in Baltic Birch Plywood

1 Sheet of 4'x4' 1/2in Baltic Birch Plywood

Wood Glue

Satin Clear Wood Finish

Chalked Paint Cocoa Brown and Linen White

30pcs M6x15mm Binding Screws

5pcs M6X40mm Binding Screws

2 meters Jute Twine

Turn Buckle

3in Memory Foam

Linen Upholstery Cloth

Pendant Light Cord

Edison LED Bulb

Tools:

4'x8' CNC Machine

1/4" Compression Bit

1/4" Down Cut Bit

Orbital Sander

Paint Spray Gun

Electric Staple Gun

When I began conceptualizing the design, I first had to establish some constraints to guide decisions on the size, shape, and overall aesthetic of the project. During my research, I came across a photo showing different reading positions, which helped me realize that the structure needed to be circular, cozy, and cocoon-like to enhance comfort.

As I sketched out rough ideas, I noticed the design began to resemble a seed shape. This led me to discover the Pseudocayratia pengiana seed, which has a wide base that would not only make the structure more stable but also provide a spacious sitting area—perfect for a comfortable reading nook.

Using Autodesk Fusion, I was able to design the shape exactly as I envisioned. For the connections and structural stability, I drew inspiration from the yurt tent, where the structure is held together by the compression from the weight of its covers. Similarly, in my design, the compression from the seat and vertical pieces keeps the structure stable without the need for horizontal supports.

To ensure efficient material use and portability, I added joints that allow the nook to be disassembled and easily transported. One of the most challenging aspects of the design process was deciding on the type of joint. I ultimately chose a lap joint, which I shaped to resemble a flower, adding both functionality and a unique aesthetic to the project.

Once I finalized the design, a crucial step was performing test cuts to ensure the tolerances were perfect, especially since the structure can be disassembled. Testing the cuts allowed me to make sure all the joints fit snugly, ensuring both structural integrity and ease of assembly and disassembly.

For the main joint clamps, I required a 1.25" thick piece of plywood. To achieve this thickness, I laminated 3/4" and 1/2" plywood sheets before milling.

I used a 1/4" down-cut bit to mill the pockets of the lap joints and a 1/4" compression bit for the profile cuts.

I sanded all the pieces using 120 and 220 grit sandpaper to ensure a smooth surface. Since I wanted the natural wood color of the joints to stand out, I applied a satin clear wood finish as a primer before painting. This finish not only highlights the wood’s natural color but also acts as a waterproof layer, preventing the wood from swelling—crucial to maintaining the precise tolerances of the joints.

For the gradient color, I mixed three shades of Cocoa Brown paint. Using an automotive spray gun, I applied even coats of both the wood finish and the paint. Finally, I sprayed an additional coat of satin clear wood finish as a top coat to seal and protect the project.

For the upholstery, I used 3-inch memory foam to ensure a comfortable seating area. I covered the foam with linen fabric, securing it with an electric staple gun for a tight and smooth finish. Using a rotary cutter made trimming the fabric quick and precise, making the upholstery process fast and efficient.

The tensioning jute rope added both stability and a rustic aesthetic to the chair, enhancing its overall structure. To complete the look, I added a large vintage bulb, which perfectly tied the entire project together and gave it a warm, inviting feel.

I’ve already moved the chair to five different locations, and it was easy to transport thanks to the precision of the test cuts. Even though it’s a large piece, the ability to disassemble it made relocation simple and stress-free.

Building The Seedling Seat was an incredibly rewarding experience. From conceptualization to final assembly, each step taught me valuable lessons about design, precision, and craftsmanship. I’m proud of how the project turned out, and I hope this guide inspires you to create your own unique wooden projects. Whether it’s for reading, relaxing, or simply adding a cozy corner to your home.