Tiki torch corbels

These corbels are a fun weekend scroll-saw project. The scrollwork isn’t really necessary to support the torches. In fact, the reverse is true: the only truly challenging part of the project is getting the rest of the corbel to keep a grip on the scrollwork. (The horizontal member is actually held perpendicular and provides support via a lag screw that attaches it to the vertical member.)

You only need two basic materials for the corbels. The structural members are simple 1×2 stock, and the scrollwork is 1/4” x 4” stock. I chose poplar for both, because of the fine grain and ready availability.

Long ago, I had three torches with a lamp-black finish, and I made the corbels to support them and attach them to my house. Over time, the corrosive Florida salt air caused them to rust out. I replaced them with the stainless-steel torches you see here. I picked these up on Amazon because they have a contemporary appearance, and because I hoped that the stainless steel would be more resistant to corrosion. Unfortunately, they begin oxidizing almost from day one. I suspect that the welds in these torches were done incorrectly, and that the metallurgy is accelerating their decay. I have tried sanding out the corrosion and sealing the torches with a quality protective metal finish, but the corrosion begins again almost immediately, which seems to point to some sort of galvanic issue. You will note that I do not provide a link to help you purchase them.

I’ll post the templates for the scrollwork for free. Check back soon!