Abstract: A hinge assembly is described which can be assembled by snapping together moldable half-cap pieces about the end of a baluster pierced through by a hole. The baluster turns about spindles formed by the half-caps. The half-caps may be fixed together by press-fit mating surfaces and may be placed within a mating groove defined by a hand rail or shoe rail. The half-cap pieces and the hole are not readily apparent in a finished staircase containing the hinge assembly. The hinge assembly successfully employs pin top balusters, as well as rectangular balusters. Alternatively, a hinge assembly is described which can be inserted into the bore of an end-bored bluster, fastened to the inside of the bore, and pivotally attached to a flange suitable for attachment to a rail. The hinge assembly requires no external modification to the normally exposed surfaces of the baluster. The flange includes an H-shaped foot which may be concealed in a groove defined by a hand rail or a shoe rail.

Abstract: A hinge assembly which can be inserted into the bore of an end-bored bluster, fastened to the inside of the bore, and pivotally attached to a flange suitable for attachment to a rail. The hinge assembly requires no external modification to the normally exposed surfaces of the baluster. The flange includes an H-shaped foot which may be concealed in a groove defined by a hand rail or a shoe rail. The pivot point is raised slightly above the inner surface of the groove to prevent any unsightly gap, termed “bird's' mouth” in the industry, adjacent the baluster.

Abstract: A method and apparatus for joining fittings, particularly wooden stair rail fittings. The apparatus includes a mitre jig and a double slot jig. The mitre jig has a base with a curved bed for supporting the fitting to be cut. A wall is used with the base that has on it a scale for indicating the angle of incline of the stair being worked with. A recess in the wall accommodates a saw and a slot in the wall receives the saw blade. The fitting is placed on the base with its seam aligned with the particular indication for the stair's angle of incline. A saw is then used to cut the fitting. The double slot jig is used to cut slots into the ends of fittings for joining them. The double slot jig has a base, a tray, a double-bladed cutting apparatus, and a frame. The tray supports the fitting to be cut and is movable on the base. Appropriate stops are used to correctly position the fitting on the base and to limit the movement of the tray on the base. A drill with double circular blades can be used.