This project was built and designed by Mike from Oregon Makers. Mike created a stunning cherry side table featuring an eye-catching tile top, perfect for placing beside a cozy reading chair.
If you enjoy unique woodworking projects, check out Mike’s YouTube channel, Oregon Makers, for detailed tutorials and inspiring furniture builds.
Watch the full video and subscribe to Mike’s channel:
Why Build a Tile Top Table?
A tile top table is both stylish and functional, offering durability and easy maintenance, ideal for holding drinks, books, or décor. The beautiful combination of wood and tile brings warmth and character to any room, making it an excellent project for any woodworker.
This particular build also provides an opportunity to develop skills in joinery, tile setting, and furniture design. The final result is a beautiful, durable piece of furniture you’ll be proud to showcase in your home.
Preparing the Table Legs
Mike began by carefully selecting quality cherry wood, known for its durability and attractive grain. The legs were initially cut slightly oversized to allow precise milling and alignment.
He then used a jointer to square and straighten each piece, ensuring accurate joinery and alignment throughout the build. Precise preparation at this stage helped create a stable, visually appealing final product.
Creating Strong Mortise and Tenon Joinery
The strength and stability of Mike’s table relied heavily on traditional mortise and tenon joints. He marked and carefully cut mortises into the table legs, ensuring precise alignment for the table’s frame.
Mike then used a tenoning jig and marking gauge to create matching tenons on the rails. Each tenon was carefully trimmed and tested for a snug, secure fit, guaranteeing a stable and durable assembly.
Tapering the Legs for Style
To enhance the table’s visual appeal, Mike added gentle tapers to each leg. A tapering jig allowed consistent, clean cuts that gave the legs a refined and elegant profile.
Even after encountering a minor setback during this stage, Mike quickly corrected the error, showcasing the adaptability needed in woodworking projects. This careful attention ensured all four legs matched perfectly and looked professionally finished.
Sanding and Preparing for Finishing
Mike carefully sanded each component of the table to achieve a smooth, flawless surface. This step is essential, especially when working with fine furniture, as it prepares the wood to accept the finish evenly.
Using progressively finer sandpaper, Mike ensured all surfaces were ready for finishing. Proper sanding is crucial to enhancing the natural beauty of the cherry wood and ensuring durability.
Building and Tiling the Top
The top of the table began with a sturdy plywood foundation, surrounded by a carefully measured wooden apron. Mike used biscuits for alignment, ensuring a level and secure fit around the tile top.
He then selected tiles that complemented the cherry wood, using spacers to ensure consistent gaps for grout. A combined tile and grout product simplified installation, creating a cohesive and durable surface for the table.
Final Assembly and Finishing
Once the tile top was fully set, Mike attached it securely to the table base using techniques that allow natural wood movement. This approach helps prevent cracking and ensures long-term durability of the finished piece.
For finishing, he chose Danish oil to enhance the cherry wood’s natural grain and provide a protective yet renewable finish. This choice ensured easy maintenance and long-lasting beauty for years of everyday use.
Why You’ll Love This Project
Mike’s tile top side table beautifully blends function and style, making it perfect for everyday use or as an elegant focal point. This woodworking project is an excellent opportunity to build skills, particularly in furniture making and tile application.
The completed table not only serves as practical furniture but also as a conversation piece. Its unique combination of wood craftsmanship and tile work offers both aesthetic charm and lasting durability.
Ready to Watch the Full Build?
Watch the full video and subscribe to Mike’s channel: