In the video “Building a Contemporary Walnut Coffee Table,” Andrew Cheatle shares his journey of crafting a stunning walnut coffee table.
Designing the Table
He starts with a detailed 3D model created in SketchUp, outlining the table’s features. The design includes tapered legs on the inside faces, curved stretchers recessed from the leg faces, and a three-quarter inch thick top and bottom shelf. This thoughtful design ensures both aesthetics and stability, with a middle brace added for extra support.
Selecting the Right Wood
Andrew showcases his collection of rough walnut lumber, carefully selecting boards based on their color and grain. He demonstrates a handy trick of using a damp cloth to visualize how the wood will look once finished, emphasizing the importance of choosing pieces that will complement each other, especially for the tabletop and shelf.
Cutting and Resawing the Lumber
After marking out the dimensions, Andrew cuts the boards to size using a miter saw. He then mills the pieces to ensure they are flat and square. For thicker boards intended for the shelf, he showcases the resawing process using a table saw and featherboard for safety and stability. The result is two boards that mirror each other in grain and color, a technique known as book matching.
Creating the Joinery
Using a marking knife and combination square, Andrew accurately marks the widths of the stretchers. He cuts them to size and prepares for the joinery. Although he uses a Festool Domino for alignment, he stresses that a biscuit joiner would work just as well. This step highlights his efficient approach while ensuring the boards align perfectly during the glue-up.
Glue-Up Process
During the glue-up of the shelf, Andrew faces some challenges in aligning the boards. He opts for Titebond 3 glue, which provides a longer open time and dries darker, making it ideal for walnut. He emphasizes the need for good clamping pressure to ensure a strong bond.
Shaping the Legs
Next, Andrew cuts the legs to their final length using a crosscut sled and a tapering jig to achieve a sleek design. He demonstrates how to cut the taper on the inside faces, ensuring the legs have a refined look that enhances the overall aesthetics of the table.
Building the Table Base
After assembling the base, Andrew takes the time to sand all pieces to a smooth finish. He carefully cuts the stretchers to length and shapes their curves using a bandsaw. The meticulous sanding process is crucial, as it allows the beauty of the walnut to shine through.
Final Assembly and Finishing
Andrew encounters a hiccup when he realizes the shelf won’t fit into the assembled base. After some deliberation, he decides to cut the shelf lengthwise and reassemble it inside the base. This clever solution showcases his problem-solving skills and adaptability in woodworking.
Once the shelf is glued back together, Andrew pre-finishes the base to protect it from glue squeeze-out and enhance its appearance. He applies Rubio Monocoat, which is known for its ease of use and durability.
Attaching the Top and Shelf
In the final steps, Andrew attaches the top and shelf using Z-clips, allowing for seasonal wood movement. This thoughtful detail ensures the longevity of the table while maintaining its sleek design. After a few last-minute adjustments, he is thrilled with how the coffee table fits into his living room.
Conclusion
Andrew wraps up the project by expressing his satisfaction with the final product. His contemporary walnut coffee table not only serves a practical purpose but also adds a touch of elegance to his living space. This project highlights the importance of patience, attention to detail, and adaptability in woodworking.
