Tiny Wings Bees Farm/Hill House 2021 Hardware Plans
Built in the shop at Woodhaven
Hives
| Type | Depth | Interior length | Interior Width | Exterior Length | Exterior Width |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2x 8 Frame Medium body/super | 6 5⁄8 inches | 18 3⁄8 inches | 12 1/2 inches | 19 7/8 inches | 13 3/4 Inches |
| Top Cover (main) | 3/4 Inch | 20 inches | 13 3/4 inches | 21 1/2 Inches | 13 3/4 |
| Top Cover (front/back) - 2x | 3/4 Inch | 13 3/4 inches | 3/4 inch | ||
| Bottom Board (main) | 3/4 Inch | 20 inches | 13 3/4 inches | 21 1/2 Inches | 13 3/4 |
| Bottom Board - Back - 1x | 3/8 Inch (height) | 12 1/4 inches | 3/4 inch | ||
| Bottom Board - Front - 1x | 3/8 Inch (height) | 6 inches | 3/4 inch | ||
| Bottom Board - Sides - 2x | 3/8 Inch (height) | 19 7/8 inches | 3/4 Inch |
Notes:
- The width in the second diagram is incorrect. Overall width of the box, the top cover and the bottom board all should be 13 3/4" assuming 3/4" lumber
- Rabbit for frame rests on the front and back boards of the hive box are 3/8" wide and 5/8" deep.
- This year, we did dove tails for joinery, in order to increase strength and longevity.
- This year, for ease of storage, ease of transport and to reduce points of potential water seepage, the 1.5x.75x13.75 cleats on the front and back of the hive boxes have been replaced with a 5/8" deep plunge routed handle groove.
- Add two [1x4] 13 3/4" pressure treated runners on the bottom of the Bottom Board along the front and back edge to sit on hive stand or ground. This allows for protection for the wood and also clearance for a ratchet straps and hand cart for moving.
- Drill one 3/16th inch hole in the center of the top to allow for jar feeder.
- attach 1x4 Pressure Treated pine on the bottom of the bottom board and across the front and back of the upper side of the top cover. This will add support against warping, and provide a treated surface that will contact the ground.
- This year, instead of the oil-based finishing below, I used a silicone sealant on all end-grain and joints where boards come together and then sprayed on latex paint.
- Recommended finishing process:
- brush or roll on boiled linseed oil on all surfaces for 3 complete coats
- follow up with two coats of oil-based paint of your choice (lighter colors recommended, but not required) on all exterior surfaces.