Last summer, Blaine and I had a "building session". We got the copper arch completed and installed and started on a little table. We didn't get it done, but did get the parts cut out and
some assembled. You can see 2 images of "raw wood" here. One is the partially assembled table and the other is due to a lesson I learned years ago. I hardly ever make 2 things just alike, but back in the birdhouse days, I would make one for someone, then someone else would say, "I would like one like that." So the lesson learned was; always make 2 patterns of everything you build because there is something unique about that item that you won't remember the next time you want to build one. Therefore there is a second image of "raw wood" pieces all tied together. This is the second set of parts for the table. Because of time, we only marked out the profiles on the sides and legs, ready to cut when and if there is need to do this style again. Although the prototype
picture I had brought from Oregon had a different style of leg, we (I) decided to try something different. I don't think Blaine was quite on board when I was rattling on about this idea. We cut the leg pieces on a bevel with the long side out. Then glued and nailed (got to use my new air nailers) to the end and side pieces making 4 sides with beveled ends. That was the part we got done last summer and you see in the first image, all clamped together. This weekend we got to finish the table (sans painting). What we found was that although our biscuit joinery last summer was a
bit hasty (something to work on), the table came together quite well and the legs were very strong. In fact, although the original prototype included a lower shelf (which would give strength to the legs), we omitted that shelf, allowing the table to be used as a small writing desk. We stained the top and drawer front and added an old drawer pull that I had salvaged from some piece of furniture on it's way to the graveyard. We were afraid to paint it because it was soon to be packed in their van to ride to Springfield. I think we were very happy with the results, although as always, there are flaws that only the builder knows about. One thing I learned years ago. Don't tell everyone about the mistakes
in your projects.... Although they are glaring to you because they weren't up to your expectations; most other people probably won't notice them.
some assembled. You can see 2 images of "raw wood" here. One is the partially assembled table and the other is due to a lesson I learned years ago. I hardly ever make 2 things just alike, but back in the birdhouse days, I would make one for someone, then someone else would say, "I would like one like that." So the lesson learned was; always make 2 patterns of everything you build because there is something unique about that item that you won't remember the next time you want to build one. Therefore there is a second image of "raw wood" pieces all tied together. This is the second set of parts for the table. Because of time, we only marked out the profiles on the sides and legs, ready to cut when and if there is need to do this style again. Although the prototype 
picture I had brought from Oregon had a different style of leg, we (I) decided to try something different. I don't think Blaine was quite on board when I was rattling on about this idea. We cut the leg pieces on a bevel with the long side out. Then glued and nailed (got to use my new air nailers) to the end and side pieces making 4 sides with beveled ends. That was the part we got done last summer and you see in the first image, all clamped together. This weekend we got to finish the table (sans painting). What we found was that although our biscuit joinery last summer was a 
bit hasty (something to work on), the table came together quite well and the legs were very strong. In fact, although the original prototype included a lower shelf (which would give strength to the legs), we omitted that shelf, allowing the table to be used as a small writing desk. We stained the top and drawer front and added an old drawer pull that I had salvaged from some piece of furniture on it's way to the graveyard. We were afraid to paint it because it was soon to be packed in their van to ride to Springfield. I think we were very happy with the results, although as always, there are flaws that only the builder knows about. One thing I learned years ago. Don't tell everyone about the mistakes 
in your projects.... Although they are glaring to you because they weren't up to your expectations; most other people probably won't notice them.
3 comments:
Beautiful...great job, Kneller Men! What color will it be painted?
the top is stained, as well as the drawer front. I haven't "officially decided" yet but I'm thinking maybe a tan or mocha. I haven't given it much thought yet.
Hey Blaine; Love the table, and it looks great against that white wall!!! Where did you put it in your house? You are on your way to being an excellent woodworker!!! You and Steve ROCK!!!
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