Looking for a woodworking project that will transform your dining space? This beautiful nine-foot farmhouse table was created by The Evening Woodworker, and it’s perfect for large gatherings.
Materials and Tools Needed
- Cherry wood boards
- Pocket screws
- Wood glue
- Biscuits
- Wood finish
- Hand tools: chisel, hand plane, bandsaw
- Power tools: miter saw, table saw, jointer
- Random orbital sander
Step 1: Preparing the Cherry Boards
Begin by cutting your cherry boards to length using a miter saw. Next, rip them to the desired width on the table saw. Glue up the boards to create five-inch square posts that will support the tabletop.
Step 2: Shaping the Posts
Once the posts are glued, square up the edges with a jointer and table saw. Use a tenon jig to cut large tenons into either end of the posts, and smooth them out with a chisel.
Step 3: Constructing the Trestle Base
The trestle base is designed to be sturdy, as it will support the entire table. Glue up three boards to form a solid foundation. The classic farmhouse design features rounded over feet, which you can shape using a bandsaw and smooth out with files.
Step 4: Cutting Mortises
Use a hollow chisel mortiser to cut the mortises in the table base. Clean up any rough edges with a chisel to ensure a perfect fit for the tenons.
Step 5: Assembling the Base
Assemble the trestles, ensuring that all joints are tight and secure. The design allows for easy dry assembly, which is satisfying after all the mortising work.
Step 6: Preparing the Tabletop
The tabletop consists of six nine-foot boards, arranged so that the grain alternates up and down. This technique helps prevent cupping or twisting over time. Cut and joint the boards before gluing them up with biscuits for alignment.
Step 7: Finishing the Tabletop
After gluing the tabletop, scrape off excess glue and smooth the surface using a combination of hand planes, sanders, and sandpaper. Create a rustic look by knocking down the edges with a chisel.
Step 8: Staining and Final Assembly
Stain all pieces individually before final assembly. This makes it easier to clean up any glue squeeze-out. Assemble the trestles and attach the tabletop using sliding blocks to allow for expansion and contraction.
Step 9: Completing the Project
After transporting the finished table to its new home, enjoy the satisfaction of creating a piece that can accommodate family and friends alike. This table is designed to be both functional and beautiful, perfect for any gathering!
