Using a tuffet, a combination creeper and stool, is more comfortable than squatting or sitting on the floor for low work. The Seattle Repertory Theatre’s shop developed the style described here, which uses a zero-throw caster to facilitate movement.

FIGURE 1: THE SCENE SHOP TUFFET

Normal swivel casters would cause the stool to lurch when changing direction. For a person sitting so low, these lurches are difficult to control. A Zero Throw Caster (2TC) like the three-caster model shown here eliminates any lurch. Any size swivel casters can be used for a ZTC, but for stability the caster stems should be aligned with the edge of the seat as shown in Figure 1. For the cushion, upholster a foam pad at least four inches thick to a one-foot-diameter plywood disk. Finally, attach the cushioned plywood disk to the ZTC.

Things to keep in mind when designing and building your tuffet.

1. It can be used for moving materials or buckets that you need to keep near at hand.

2. Different fabrics could be used in upholstering to create tuffet individuality.

3. A backrest would not allow approaching or sitting from all directions.