In this guide, Molly and Dylan from Woodbrew share their process for building a stunning modern dining table for under $100. With a clear breakdown of materials, tools, and step-by-step instructions, anyone can create a beautiful dining table that stands out.
Materials and Tools Needed
- (2) 2x10x8 boards
- (4) 2×4 boards for legs and supports
- (1) Pre-stain conditioner
- (1) Solid color black stain
- (1) Total Boat Lust marine varnish
- Wood glue
- Wood screws
- Drill
- Table saw
- Clamps
- Plug cutter
- Sandpaper (320 grit)
- Pipe clamps
Step 1: Selecting and Preparing the Wood
Molly and Dylan begin by selecting basic 2x10x8 material from their local home center. They emphasize avoiding the center of the tree when selecting boards, as this can lead to warping. Instead, they recommend stacking the wood for a couple of weeks to allow it to settle before starting the project.
Step 2: Breaking Down the Materials
Next, they cut the boards down to size, ensuring they are ready for assembly. During this process, they also joint and plane the boards to achieve perfect straightness. This step is not mandatory but recommended for a polished finish.
Step 3: Assembling the Tabletop
With the boards prepared, Molly and Dylan proceed to glue them together using pipe clamps. This method allows for greater clamping force, ensuring a tight bond. They let the glue dry before moving on to the next step.
Step 4: Constructing the Table Legs
For the legs, they use 2x4s cut to size. They pre-assemble the leg bases and discuss a simple construction method using screws and plugs to hide the screws, creating a clean look. By using a plug cutter, they can match the grain of the wood, making the plugs virtually disappear.
Step 5: Attaching the Tabletop
Once the legs are ready, they attach the tabletop using z-clips. These clips allow the top to expand and contract with seasonal changes, preventing any buckling. They demonstrate how to install the clips effectively.
Step 6: Staining and Finishing the Table
This project incorporates a black stain to achieve a modern look. They start with a pre-stain conditioner, followed by a heavily diluted shellac to seal the wood. Finally, they apply the solid color stain and finish it with Total Boat Lust varnish, which is UV stable and perfect for outdoor use.
Conclusion
The final product is a beautiful modern dining table that exceeded their expectations. This project is not only economical but also a fantastic way to develop woodworking skills. For those interested in building their own, detailed plans are here.
