How to Make a Table: Episode 2

How to Make a Table: Episode 2

Paul introduces the mortice guide that helps to guarantee that the mortice hole is parallel to the outside face. This is used to accurately cut the mortises, working progressively using Paul’s preferred technique to cut to depth. The tenons are cut to width and fitted with the saw and chisel. Paul checks for anything that holds off the joint; then mitres the tenon.

How to Make a Table: Episode 3

How to Make a Table: Episode 3

With the tenons fitted on one leg frame, Paul shows two other methods for cutting the tenons and how to fit tenons using the router. Once all the tenons and mitres are cut, the whole frame can be clamped up to check if the shoulders are seated. Then we’re ready to describe the arches for the aprons, as well as marking the leg taper and turnbutton mortises.

How to Make a Table: Episode 4

How to Make a Table: Episode 4

Paul chops the turnbutton mortises on the inside of the aprons, then cuts the arches in the aprons. He uses a stop cut method, cuts the arch using a chisel and then employs a spokeshave and scraper to refine it. Then the leg taper can be established with a saw, working from alternate faces, or using stop cuts. It is then refined with the plane to an even taper.

How to Make a Table: Episode 5

How to Make a Table: Episode 5

With all the joinery complete, the stock for the tabletop can be prepared and jointed. Once glued and clamped overnight, Paul rips it to width, planes the edges and scrapes the surfaces. Then the frame components are cleaned up, ready to be glued. Paul progresses this sequentially, ensuring crisp joint lines and an even amount of glue.

How to Make a Table: Q&A Episode

How to Make a Table: Q&A Episode

We’ve had a few questions come in about table making and the details of this project that make it distinct from the other tables we’ve made. In this video, Paul discusses why he chose this as a suitable woodworking masterclasses project, as well as answering questions on adapting the scaling, and the joinery details that need to be taken into consideration in order to do so.