How to Build a Cypress Stump Table

Cut down the cypress tree stump, if you haven’t already, using a chain saw and making the cut 1/2 to 1 inch above the ground. Always wear safety glasses when using a chain saw. Let the stump dry for at least three to four months before continuing the table construction.

Place the cut stump on a flat surface, such as concrete, and place a level on top of it. Look at the air bubble in the level to ensure that it is in the center. If the air bubble is not centered, cut additional wood off of the top of the cypress stump using the chain saw until it is level.

Lay a large piece of plywood, or other desired wood, on a flat surface. Decide what diameter you want the table top and cut a string to the same width plus 2 inches. Tie each end of the string around a pencil and place one pencil in the center of the wood. Hold the pencil still and stretch the string tight. You may need a helper for this. Move the other pencil around in a circular pattern to create the outline for a circular tabletop.

Put on safety glasses and a dust mask and cut out the pencil outline using a power saw. Support the wood on saw horses while cutting.

Install a piece of medium-grit sandpaper into a belt sander and sand all surfaces of the table top and the cut ends of the cypress stump until they are smooth. If desired, you can leave the cypress bark on the sides of the stump for a more rustic look.

Open a can of clear acrylic-based polyurethane, wood stain or paint color. Insert a paintbrush into the solution and paint it onto all exposed areas of the table top and the stump to seal it. Wait until the wood dries and apply a second coat.

Place the table top on top of the center of the cypress stump.