How to Build a Wood Dining Room Table

Building your own dining room table is a rewarding and simple project. You may want to build an inexpensive table, which is a good way to save money on purchasing one. On the other hand, you may be looking to make a beautiful heirloom piece that will stay in your family for generations to come. Regardless of your choice of materials, from plywood to hardwood, there is a table you can build for every taste and budget.

Large, rectangular piece of wood
Band saw
4-by-4 lumber
Power drill
Screws
Wood glue
6-inch wide wood panels
Finishing nails
Varnish

Instructions

- 1
  Purchase a large panel of wood, large enough to seat as many people as you will need. You can purchase plywood or hardwood, as long as it is at least 3/4 inch thick.
- 2
  Cut the four pieces of the 4-by-4 lumber so that it is as high as you want the table. These will be the legs.
- 3
  Cut the 6-inch panels so they are 6-inches square. Make four of these. Attach each one to one of the legs you've made. First put a layer of wood glue on both parts, and then drill into place.
- 4
  Attach the legs to the table by drilling pilot holes through the 6-by-6 inch panels into the underside of the tabletop. Secure the legs with wood glue and screws.
- 5
  Measure the space between the legs and cut the 6-inch panels to fit around them, to make a skirt around the underside of the table. Put adhesive on them and nail the panels into the legs with finishing nails.
- 6
  Sand the legs, skirt and any parts of the table top that require it.
- 7
  If you want to, you can varnish your table. Put two coats of varnish on the table top as it will be getting the most wear.

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Tables