Looking to create a stunning modern table? This project was designed and crafted by Six Eight Woodworks, and it combines elegant dowel joinery with contemporary design.
Materials and Tools Needed
- 3/4″ clear vertical grain fir or pine
- Claro walnut for the tabletop
- 3/8″ dowels
- Z-clips (tabletop fasteners)
- Wood glue
- CA glue and activator
- Painters tape
- Sandpaper (various grits)
- Osmo Polyx finish
Tools Required
- Table saw
- Drill with dowel jig
- Clamps (bar clamps recommended)
- Router with a chamfer bit
- Drum sander (optional)
- Bench vise
Step 1: Prepare Your Materials
Start by ripping your fir or pine down to about 3.5 inches wide for the legs. Trim off any rounded corners to ensure a nice square edge.
Step 2: Taper the Legs
Using a tapering jig, taper the legs to give them a modern look. Secure the wood with micro jig match fit clamps, and use CA glue and activator for added stability.
Step 3: Layout for Dowels
Once the legs are tapered, mark out where the dowels will go for assembly. Ensure the dowel holes are aligned on both sides of the legs.
Step 4: Drill Dowel Holes
Using a dowel jig, drill holes for the dowels. A bench vise will help secure the wood while drilling.
Step 5: Sand the Legs
Before assembly, sand the legs to create a raw surface for the glue to adhere. This will also help remove any chip-out from the drilling process.
Step 6: Glue Up the Legs
Apply plenty of glue to the dowels and assemble the legs. Use tapered leg offcuts to apply even pressure while clamping.
Step 7: Assemble the Stretchers
Prepare the stretchers by running grooves for the Z-clips that will hold the tabletop. Cut them to length and mark them for dowel placement.
Step 8: Drill Dowel Holes for Stretchers
Drill the dowel holes in the stretchers, ensuring they align correctly for assembly.
Step 9: Final Assembly of the Table Base
Glue the stretchers to the legs, ensuring everything is aligned. Use clamps to hold the assembly in place, and sand off any excess glue once dry.
Step 10: Prepare the Tabletop
For the tabletop, you can use a beautiful slab of claro walnut or glue up smaller pieces for a custom look. Ensure the edges are flat and ready for assembly.
Step 11: Attach the Tabletop
Using Z-clips, attach the tabletop to the base. This allows for wood movement due to humidity changes.
Step 12: Apply Finish
Finish your table with Osmo Polyx for a durable and beautiful surface. Apply it using scouring pads and buff it in for a smooth finish.
Final Thoughts
Congratulations on building your modern table with dowel joinery! This project not only enhances your woodworking skills but also results in a stunning piece of furniture. Remember, the beauty of woodworking lies in the details and the craftsmanship you bring to each project.