This project, inspired by Johnny Brooke from Crafted Workshop, shows how to build a stunning farmhouse table and matching benches for an affordable price. If you’ve ever wanted to create your own custom dining set, this project is a great way to get started. Be sure to check out Johnny’s YouTube channel for the full build process and more woodworking inspiration.
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Why Build a Farmhouse Table?
A farmhouse table brings a warm, rustic feel to any dining space. Building your own allows you to customize the size, finish, and materials to match your home’s style. Plus, by using construction lumber, you can achieve a high-end look without spending a fortune.
Getting Started with the Build
Johnny designed this table using Southern yellow pine for the tabletop and Douglas fir for the base. The combination of these materials keeps costs down while ensuring a strong and durable final product. Before getting started, having a plan helps streamline the process and avoids unnecessary mistakes.
Preparing the Lumber
To begin, Johnny breaks down the boards to rough sizes, keeping them slightly longer than needed for final trimming. This allows for cleaner cuts and precise joinery later in the build. For the tabletop, 2×10 boards are used, with the rounded edges removed for a more polished look.
The boards are flattened using a jointer and planer, which eliminates warping and creates a smooth surface for assembly. Ensuring the boards are properly milled is essential for achieving a seamless tabletop.
Gluing the Tabletop
To align the boards perfectly during glue-up, Johnny uses dowel joinery. This method keeps everything level and prevents shifting as the glue dries. The dowels are carefully positioned, and once drilled, glue is applied evenly across the edges before clamping the boards together.
A glue roller can help speed up this step, ensuring even coverage. Once clamped, the tabletop is left to dry before moving on to the next phase.
Installing Breadboard Ends
Breadboard ends add both style and function to the table, preventing the wood from warping over time. Johnny creates mortises for the ends using a router, ensuring they fit snugly while still allowing for wood movement. This step is key for durability, as it helps the tabletop adapt to seasonal changes in humidity.
Building the Table Base
The base is made from Douglas fir 4x4s, which are squared up and cut to size before assembly. The legs and supports are joined using dowels or dominos, creating strong connections without visible screws. A test fit ensures all components align properly before final glue-up.
The glue-up is done in phases to make clamping more manageable. Taking time with this step ensures a sturdy and long-lasting base.
Attaching the Base and Finishing the Table
Once assembled, the base is secured to the tabletop with screws, ensuring a stable structure. The finishing process involves applying a stain that enhances the wood grain while providing protection. Johnny uses a mixture of stain and sealer, brushing it on evenly and allowing it to soak in for a rich, warm tone.
Building the Matching Benches
The benches follow a similar construction process, using the same materials and techniques as the table. They are built to scale and feature breadboard ends for a cohesive design. The result is a sturdy seating solution that pairs perfectly with the farmhouse table.
The Finished Farmhouse Table and Benches
This DIY dining set is a great way to add character to your home while improving your woodworking skills. Whether you’re new to furniture building or looking for your next project, this farmhouse table is a rewarding and functional build.
For detailed plans go here: https://craftedworkshop.com/store/farmhouse-dining-set-bundle.