This twisted end table was created by Knowledge Is Kings, and it’s perfect for those who want to test their skills.
Materials and Tools Needed
- White oak
- MDF plywood
- Instant glue
- Wood screws
- Black marker (for outlining)
- Stain and poly finish
- Painter’s tape
- Band saw
- Track saw
- Table saw
- Oscillating spindle sander
- Flush trim saw
- High volume low pressure (HVLP) spray gun
- Electronic angle finder
Step 1: Design and Template Creation
After a few test tables, I realized that angle accuracy is key, so I designed the twisted pieces in Fusion 360 and sent the design to my CNC machine to cut a template. I only created templates for the twisted pieces since the top and bottom were just rectangles.
Step 2: Cutting the Pieces
The table uses a small amount of wood, with the main materials being scrap pieces of white oak and MDF plywood. I cut the angles first on the plywood, then lined up the templates to trace the short point of that cut.
Step 3: Adjusting the Cuts
It’s crucial to change the angle on the saw for the second cut. I had to learn this the hard way when I realized I didn’t change the angle and had to redo several pieces. Once the correct angle was set, I traced the templates and used the track saw for precise cuts.
Step 4: Shaping the Arches
After cutting the angles, I cut all the arches for each piece on the band saw and smoothed those curves on an oscillating spindle sander.
Step 5: Gluing the Pieces
To cut the angle on the straight part of each piece, I used a block with painter’s tape and instant glue. This method is effective, but I had to ensure the angle on my table saw was correct. I glued the pieces together once the angles were right.
Step 6: Checking for Accuracy
After gluing, I checked the angles with a speed square to ensure everything was square. If the corners were tight, I used a screwdriver to burnish the joints, which helps close any gaps.
Step 7: Trimming and Banding
Next, I trimmed the tips flush with the angles using a flush trim saw. Since I was working with MDF, I needed to cover the edges with white oak banding, which I applied using a hot iron.
Step 8: Final Assembly
Finally, I glued the bottom to the top. I had a moment of oversight where I only put glue on one piece, which led to a bit of a struggle. Once I corrected that, I secured everything with screws for extra strength.
Step 9: Finishing Touches
For the finish, I opted for an all-in-one stain and poly, which didn’t go as planned. It ended up looking blotchy, so I had to use xylene to remove it. After that, I prepped for a two-part spray-on finish using my HVLP gun.
Step 10: Completing the Project
After applying the finish and letting it set, I had a beautiful twisted end table ready to showcase. This project taught me a lot about precision and planning, so I hope you find it as rewarding as I did!
