This project was built and designed by Chris from A Glimpse Inside. It’s a rustic and durable farm table that combines clean joinery with traditional charm, making it a standout piece for any home.
The build process includes everything from pocket hole joinery to hand-applied finishes. Chris takes a detailed and thoughtful approach, showing how to turn simple pine boards into a showpiece dining table.
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Choosing Materials and Laying Out the Tabletop
Chris begins the project by visiting his local home center and picking up pre-milled pine boards in varying widths. These boards will form the tabletop and are chosen for their affordability and ease of use.
Once back in the shop, he lays out the boards to determine the final dimensions of the table. This dry fit allows him to mark pocket hole locations and check for grain consistency.
Using a pocket hole jig, he drills holes in each board for strong, concealed joinery. The drilling process is efficient and consistent, making assembly faster and more precise.
Assembling the Tabletop
With all pocket holes drilled, Chris applies glue to the edges and begins clamping the boards together. The pocket screws are driven in, pulling the boards tightly and forming a sturdy panel.
For extra strength, he adds strips of Baltic birch plywood underneath the tabletop. These reinforce the glue joints and help prevent warping over time.
This combination of pocket screws and plywood strips results in a solid and long-lasting tabletop. The alignment and clamping ensure everything remains flat during the drying process.
Constructing the Frame and Legs
Once the tabletop is complete, Chris marks out the placement for the legs. These legs measure six inches by six inches, giving the table a bold, farmhouse-style look.
The following day, he begins building the undercarriage that will support the top. More pocket holes are added to the frame to create a strong foundation.
He cuts braces from Baltic birch plywood and angles them at 45 degrees. These are glued and screwed into place, keeping the frame square and supporting the heavy legs.
Chris notes that pocket holes are ideal for projects like this where the joinery is hidden. It’s a fast, clean method that keeps the build accessible while still offering durability.
Sanding and Filling Gaps
With assembly complete, the next step is sanding every surface. Chris uses a power sander to smooth the wood and prepare it for finishing.
To deal with small imperfections, he mixes sawdust with wood glue to create a filler. This blend matches the wood tone and helps hide any small cracks or gaps.
The result is a seamless tabletop with no visible joints or defects. It’s a simple trick that elevates the final appearance of the piece.
Adding Decorative Details
Before staining, Chris shapes the edges of the table with a Roman OG bit. This profile adds a touch of traditional styling to the tabletop and softens the corners.
Once routed, the edges are sanded again to remove any sharpness and prepare for finishing. The table now has a defined, yet elegant shape that fits well in farmhouse-style interiors.
Applying the Finish
Chris applies a dark stain to bring out the grain in the pine. The color adds depth and warmth, creating contrast against the soon-to-be-painted legs.
For protection, he uses a custom finish made from boiled linseed oil, polyurethane, and mineral spirits. This mix is hand-rubbed into the wood, allowing it to soak in and create a durable layer.
Several coats are applied, with sanding between each to build up a smooth, protective finish. The tabletop begins to shine, revealing the character of the wood beneath.
Painting and Final Assembly
With the top finished, Chris paints the legs in a bright, clean white. This two-tone look brings out the best in both the stained top and the painted base.
His wife adds a shabby chic touch to the finish, giving the table a unique style. Together, they create a piece that’s both functional and visually striking.
Chris attaches the legs and rechecks all fasteners to make sure everything is square and secure. With the build complete, he takes a step back to admire the result.
A Family Project with Purpose
This farm table isn’t just a weekend build—it’s a centerpiece that brings family together. Chris shares how his daughter joined him in the shop during parts of the project, making the process even more meaningful.
He also gives a nod to other makers who inspired him, including Bob from I Like to Make Stuff and Jimmy Diresta. Their influence helped shape his approach to design and craftsmanship.
Want to See the Full Build?
Please support Chris by visiting his website here: https://www.aglimpseinside.org