The video “Building a table with history” is by MWA Woodworks. In this engaging project, MWA Woodworks takes viewers through the intricate process of constructing a beautiful dining table, showcasing both traditional techniques and modern tools.
Choosing the Right Wood
MWA Woodworks emphasizes the importance of using hard maple for painted surfaces due to its heavy and durable nature. The dense closed grain of hard maple provides a smooth painted surface, with zero grain lines showing through. The first step involves breaking down large eight-quarter boards into rough blanks for the project.
Initial Milling
MWA Woodworks purchased S3S (surfaced on three sides) boards, which saved time on initial milling since these boards already had one straight edge. For those without access to a miter saw, a jigsaw is a viable alternative, though caution is advised.
Creating Blanks
After cutting the blanks, MWA Woodworks rips them down further using a table saw, ensuring they are slightly oversized for final dimensions. This is crucial as it allows for adjustments during the shaping process.
Gluing Up Blanks
The next step involves gluing the cut pieces back together, forming larger blanks for the trestle-style legs and bench seats. MWA Woodworks shares a time-saving tip: glue multiple parts using a single set of clamps, ensuring only the desired joints are glued.
Shaping the Legs
Shaping the legs involves cutting angles and sweeping curves. MWA Woodworks introduces an L fence, a helpful tool for making precise angled cuts. This technique allows for clean and safe cutting by guiding the workpiece against the blade without deflection.
Making Templates
For the curves, MWA Woodworks creates a template using CNC technology. However, for those without a CNC, printing a template and gluing it to the part is an alternative method. This allows for precise cuts using a spindle sander to reach the lines.
Joinery Techniques
MWA Woodworks opts for domino joinery for this project, explaining that while traditional mortise and tenon joints are respectable, the domino system offers efficiency and ease for furniture projects. The video humorously encourages viewers to consider investing in a domino tool for its time-saving benefits.
Working with Reclaimed Wood
MWA Woodworks introduces reclaimed heart pine from a barn built in the late 1800s for the table top. The initial steps involve ripping edges straight and ensuring a good glue joint, even if it requires some adjustments.
Glue Up Process
The glue-up process is done with the top of the table facing down in clamps, preserving the character of the wood. MWA Woodworks uses a belt sander to even out the joints after the glue dries, ensuring a smooth surface.
Adding Breadboard Ends
For the table, MWA Woodworks explains how to add breadboard ends using dominoes while considering wood movement. This involves careful marking and cutting of mortises, ensuring a snug fit for the dominoes without restricting movement.
Final Assembly
The final assembly of the table is straightforward, utilizing dowels to secure the breadboard ends. MWA Woodworks highlights the satisfaction of seeing the table come together, emphasizing the importance of planning and layout for a smooth assembly process.
Finishing Touches
Once assembled, MWA Woodworks applies a finish to enhance the wood’s character, mixing Waterlox urethane with Watco Danish oil to achieve the desired tone. The transformation reveals the rich undertones of the reclaimed wood.
Conclusion
MWA Woodworks concludes the project by reflecting on the time invested and the joy of creating a beautiful table that will be cherished for years to come. The combination of traditional techniques and modern tools makes this project accessible and rewarding for woodworkers of all skill levels.