How to Rebuild a Curved Table Leg

Remove one of the existing legs from the table. Place it on a large piece of paper and carefully outline the shape of the leg. Use a tape measure to ensure that the table leg and the template have exactly the same measurements. Cut out the template.

Transfer the outline of the template onto a piece of lumber. For each curve that there is on the table leg, mark a separate section (a table leg with one curve will be made of two sections that meet at the middle of the curve). Using multiple pieces allows you to match the grains for a stronger leg.

Cut out the different sections, using a jig saw. Leave some excess wood around the outer section of the curve so that it can clamped together later. Cut a notch on each side of this excess wood that the clamps can rest on.

Join the different sections of the leg together using dowel butt joints. Drill holes an equal distance apart on the facing edges of the sections and insert dowels on one side. Apply a coating of glue to the edges and press them together. Clamp the sections together lengthwise to ensure a tight fit.

Cut away the excess wood from the outer curve of the table leg. Plane the surface of the leg to ensure that it’s completely flat. A thorough sanding can do the same thing for those without a planer.

Trace the template out twice onto a thin piece of lumber (same as the other lumber used). Cut them out with the jig saw, leaving approximately half an inch around the edges. Glue the new cut-outs to either side of the table leg and clamp them in place.

Router the edges of the table leg so that the surrounds are uniform with the table leg core. Sand the entire leg so that it’s smooth and the edges are slightly rounded.

Apply a varnish or stain so that the new table leg looks the same as the existing ones.