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How to Build a Rustic Log Slab Table

Breathe new life into a log slab and stump using a few tools and some elbow grease. Making a rustic log slab table is not an expensive venture but one that does require some patience and comfort with working a chainsaw. Use the finished table inside or on a deck or a patio to infuse a natural and rustic charm. Construct smaller tables to use for decorative accents or end tables.

Things You'll Need

  • Large log slab
  • Log stump, 2 feet in diameter
  • Measuring tape
  • Chainsaw
  • Level
  • Chisel
  • Hammer
  • Medium-grit sandpaper
  • Old rag
  • Wood stain
  • Paintbrush
  • Nail-in plastic furniture feet
  • Dusting cloth
  • Dusting polish
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Instructions

    • 1

      Bring the log slab and a 2-foot diameter log into a cool, dry place, and let them sit for about a month. This will allow the wood to lighten and loosen the bark on the stump making the next steps easier.

    • 2

      Use a chainsaw to cut the wood slab to measure about 2 feet wide by 2 feet long. This is the tabletop.

    • 3

      Cut the log stump 2 feet long. Cut the stump in half. Each half of the stump will be a leg for the table. Set each leg up on its end on a flat surface. Check to make sure the tops of the legs are level. Use the chainsaw to adjust the legs as needed.

    • 4

      Chip off any bark on the legs of the table and sides of the slab using a chisel and a hammer. Use medium-grit sandpaper to remove hairs from the bark and smooth out the surface of the wood. Sand the wood until it is smooth to the touch.

    • 5

      Wipe down the legs and slab using a dampened old rag. This will remove any dirt or residue on the wood.

    • 6

      Apply an even coat of wood stain to the tabletop and legs using a paintbrush. Allow the stain to dry completely, according to the directions on the can.

    • 7

      Turn both of the table legs bottoms up. Use a hammer to nail in two plastic furniture feet on both legs. This will keep the table from scratching the floor.

    • 8

      Select a location for your table. Place the two legs in the location across from each other and 3 feet apart. The flat part of the legs should be facing out. Set the table on top of the legs so it overhangs evenly on all sides. The weight of the slab will hold the table in place. Spray a dusting cloth with wood dusting polish and wipe down the table with it to give it an extra shine.