In this article, Clean Cut Woodworks shares a step-by-step guide on how to construct a stunning white oak dining table that measures 7 feet long and 40 inches wide. This project is approachable for woodworkers at various skill levels, making it a great addition to any home.
Materials Needed:
- White oak lumber
- Wood glue
- Pocket screws
- Finish (Rubio Monocoat)
Tools Required:
- Band saw
- Joiner
- Planer
- Router with roundover bit
- Domino joiner or biscuit joiner
- Clamps
- Sander (various grits)
- Measuring tape
- Square
Step 1: Cutting the Legs
The first step is to cut the rough length of the table legs, leaving about an inch longer than the final measurement. The height of the table will be 30 inches, which is standard for dining tables. The initial cut is made using a band saw due to some cupping in the wood, which makes it unsafe to cut on the table saw.
Step 2: Squaring Up the Legs
After the rough cuts are done, the next step is to square the legs using a joiner. Mark the bad side of the wood and run it through the planer to ensure all sides are square.
Step 3: Tapering the Legs
Next, layout the taper for the legs. This involves marking a taper from about 1.75 inches down to 1.25 inches at the bottom. The apron of the table will also be marked at 3 inches wide.
Step 4: Cutting the Taper
To cut the taper, you can use a taper jig on the table saw, but the creator prefers to rough cut it on the band saw and then finish it on the joiner to ensure a clean edge.
Step 5: Chamfering the Legs
Chamfer the bottom edges of the legs to prevent tear-out. A block plane is used for this step, which only takes about a minute per leg.
Step 6: Preparing the Apron Boards
Calculate the lengths of the apron boards by subtracting the width of the two legs and allowing for an inch overhang on all sides. Cut the apron boards to 3 inches wide.
Step 7: Joinery for the Apron and Legs
Mark the locations for the dominoes that will connect the apron boards to the legs. Ensure the domino cutter is set to the proper depth for a strong joint.
Step 8: Gluing the Apron and Legs
With the apron boards and legs ready, it’s time to glue everything together. It’s important to pay attention to the grain orientation to ensure a strong bond.
Step 9: Creating the Tabletop
Rough cut the tabletop boards to length, leaving extra length for final adjustments. Joint one edge nice and flat before ripping the other side on the table saw.
Step 10: Joinery for the Tabletop
Mark the layout for the domino joinery on the tabletop boards. This joinery helps with alignment during the glue-up process.
Step 11: Glue-Up of the Tabletop
With all boards cut and marked, begin the glue-up process. Preload the dominoes on one side and apply glue to the edges before clamping everything together.
Step 12: Finishing Touches
After sanding the tabletop with various grits, cut buttons to hold the tabletop to the base. The buttons should be installed slightly below the top edge to allow for movement.
Final Thoughts
This white oak dining table is not only functional but also a beautiful addition to any dining space. Clean Cut Woodworks has provided a comprehensive guide that makes this project accessible for woodworkers of all levels.