Extendable Farmhouse Table

Summary

This video provides a step-by-step guide on building a table with a removable leaf in the middle. The process involves cutting wood to precise measurements, drilling pocket holes, assembling the table using screws and wood glue, and adding support structures. The video also covers creating a beveled look for the table legs, sanding the table for a smooth finish, and applying stain and polyurethane for protection. The tutorial is detailed, ensuring viewers can follow along to create their own functional and aesthetically pleasing table.

Takeaways

• 🛠️ The video is a tutorial on building a table with a removable leaf.
• 📏 The initial step involves cutting two 2x8s and six 2x4s to 80 1/2 inches in length.
• 🔪 The table saw is set to cut an 1/8 inch off each side for a smooth finish.
• 🔩 Pocket holes are drilled for screws, and wood glue is applied for assembly.
• 🔨 Clamps are used to hold the pieces together while the glue dries.
• 📐 A 2x8 is cut to 34 inches for the table's width, ensuring it's flat and even.
• 🏗️ The 'skirt' or apron of the table is constructed using 2x4s to add stability.
• 🦵 Legs are made from 4x4s cut to 29 1/4 inches and beveled for aesthetic appeal.
• 🔨 Ledger cuts are made on the legs to create a flat surface for secure attachment.
• 📐 The table's center is identified to cut out a section for the removable leaf.
• 🛡️ Slides are installed 4 inches up from the skirt to accommodate the leaf.
• 🎨 The table is sanded and stained, with optional painting of the legs for contrast.
• 💡 Multiple coats of polyurethane are applied for a glossy finish, with sanding in between.

Q & A

What is the purpose of the video?

The purpose of the video is to demonstrate how to build a table with a removable leaf in the middle.

What are the initial materials needed to start the project?

The initial materials needed are two 2x8s, six 2x4s, all cut to 80 1/2 inches in length.

Why is it important to cut off an eighth of an inch on each side of the boards?

Cutting off an eighth of an inch on each side allows for a smooth finish, ensuring the boards fit together with minimal to no space between them.

What tool is recommended for drilling pocket holes for the screws?

A drill is recommended for drilling pocket holes, although a biscuit joiner would be a better option if available.

Why is it necessary to use clamps when assembling the table frame?

Clamps are used to hold the pieces together securely, ensuring a smooth surface on the top and sides, and preventing the wood from buckling.

What is the purpose of laying a 2x4 across the assembled table frame and clamping each corner?

This step is crucial to maintain the flatness and evenness of the table while the glue dries, ensuring structural stability.

What is the function of the 'skirt' or apron in the table construction?

The skirt or apron is a structure that ties the legs together and provides additional stability and strength to the table.

Why are 4x4 posts used for the table legs?

4x4 posts are used for the table legs because of their strength and stability, and they can be easily beveled for aesthetic purposes.

What is the ledger cut and how is it done?

The ledger cut is a method to create a flat surface on the corner of the table for attaching the legs. It involves marking and cutting at specific angles with a circular saw.

How does one attach the legs to the table?

The legs are attached by first screwing a 2x4 piece to the leg, then screwing the leg to the skirt of the table, ensuring a secure attachment.

What steps are taken to finish the table after assembly?

The finishing steps include sanding with 80-grit sandpaper, staining, applying multiple coats of polyurethane, and sanding again with 220-grit sandpaper to achieve a glossy shine.