Build Your Own Tables

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Learn how to build your own tables. In one weekend you can build a sturdy, useful kitchen table.
Learn how to build your own tables. In one weekend you can build a sturdy, useful kitchen table.
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Here are four examples of joining the table legs to the apron pieces, plus detail on attaching the legs and top. Click here for an enlarged image.
Here are four examples of joining the table legs to the apron pieces, plus detail on attaching the legs and top. Click here for an enlarged image.
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Scribing to level legs.
Scribing to level legs.
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Corner-rounding router: The finish on table top edges and corners always wears out faster than other areas because pressure from wiping and day-to-day use is concentrated there. You’ll enjoy the longest-lasting table finish if you round all sharp edges and corners during construction. Use a router if you like a refined effect.
Corner-rounding router: The finish on table top edges and corners always wears out faster than other areas because pressure from wiping and day-to-day use is concentrated there. You’ll enjoy the longest-lasting table finish if you round all sharp edges and corners during construction. Use a router if you like a refined effect.
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Use a rasp to round the edges of the table if you prefer a handmade look.
Use a rasp to round the edges of the table if you prefer a handmade look.
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Z-clip detail.
Z-clip detail.
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Coffee, bedside or kitchen tables are easy to build using just legs, aprons and a top. Click the link in the article for an enlarged version of the image.
Coffee, bedside or kitchen tables are easy to build using just legs, aprons and a top. Click the link in the article for an enlarged version of the image.

Learn how to build your own tables. Design and construct whatever tables you need using this expert advice.

Build Your Own Tables

Want a great table? Build it yourself! Thanks to innovations in construction materials, joinery systems and wood finishes, it’s never been easier to make a durable, beautiful and inexpensive wooden table in just one weekend.

Every table has at least three kinds of parts: legs, aprons and a top. But before you begin preparing any of these, start with some design work. When it comes to the height, width and length of your table, you’ll find it helpful to remember a few standard dimensions as you sketch ideas and refine your design. Most kitchen tables are about 30 to 32 inches high. Width should be at least 34 inches, with 34 to 38 inches of perimeter length for each person’s seating comfort. A coffee table is usually 16 to 18 inches high; a bedside table works well at 26 to 28 inches tall.

Click here for a downloadable illustration of the table dimensions.

  • Published on Aug 27, 2008
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