This project was built and designed by Keaton Beyer. It’s a beautifully designed end table that balances style, stability, and thoughtful craftsmanship—perfect for any living room or reading nook.
Inspired by the feeling of evening relaxation, the Afton End Table is built to be both practical and visually inviting. It holds up to the demands of daily use, even in homes with pets or kids, while adding a warm, minimalist touch to your space.
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Design Inspired by Real Life
Keaton designed this piece with daily use in mind, especially in a household with a high-energy chocolate lab. That meant stability was non-negotiable, and every angle and joint was chosen to resist tipping, leaning, or wobble.
The result is a clean-lined table that feels both modern and grounded. It fits just as well next to a reading chair as it does by a couch, keeping a book, drink, or lamp within arm’s reach.
Material Choice and Milling Process
Alder was chosen for this project—an affordable, easy-to-work hardwood with a warm tone and consistent grain. It’s a solid pick for furniture that needs to look good without breaking the bank.
The milling process begins by rough-cutting the boards to size, then flattening and squaring each face to ensure perfect glue lines and joinery later. Ripping the pieces to width is done after the boards are milled flat, and a template is used to keep each component consistent in shape and length.
Working With Angles
The legs of the Afton End Table are set at a slight angle, offering both strength and a subtle visual lift. Keaton uses a stop block to keep each cut repeatable, especially when working with tricky angles.
These angled cuts not only improve the look but also distribute weight in a way that reinforces the table’s sturdiness. It’s a smart balance between form and function that’s often seen in well-designed modern furniture.
Mortise and Tenon Joinery
To join the legs to the apron, Keaton uses classic mortise and tenon joinery. The mortises are routed for precision, while the tenons are formed using a table saw to dial in the perfect fit.
This type of joinery is strong, time-tested, and ideal for projects that need to endure wear and tear. The snug fit also gives the table a crisp, handmade feel that can’t be replicated with fasteners alone.
Assembly Before Shaping
Rather than shaping components first, Keaton assembles the table structure before rounding any edges. This helps ensure that the main frame is rock-solid before any final adjustments or softening are made.
It’s an approach that might feel backward to some woodworkers, but it works well when stability is the top priority. Once assembled, a router is used to round over edges and refine the silhouette, adding a softer, more finished look to the piece.
Attaching the Tabletop and Planning for Wood Movement
Keaton uses brackets that allow for seasonal wood movement to attach the tabletop. While the size of the top doesn’t demand major allowances, it’s still important to give the wood room to expand and contract with changes in humidity.
This method avoids cracks or warping down the line. It’s a small but important detail that reflects experience and careful planning—qualities that show up again and again in Keaton’s work.
Learning From Mistakes
One of the key messages in this build is that mistakes are part of the process. Keaton shares his thoughts on craftsmanship and how real growth comes from trial and error, not perfection.
He points out that woodworking isn’t just about producing flawless results—it’s about improving with every project. This mindset helps demystify the craft and encourages other builders to experiment, adapt, and keep learning.
The Meaning Behind the Afton
More than just a table, the Afton End Table is a reflection of quiet evenings and intentional design. It’s functional, beautiful, and approachable for anyone looking to build something meaningful with their own hands.
The rounded edges, sturdy stance, and subtle angles all work together to make a piece that feels both modern and timeless. It’s the kind of furniture that earns its place in a home and gets better with age.
Please support Keaton, but visiting his website: https://www.keatonbeyerwoodworking.com/.