Hand-Made, Split Wood Table

I had access to a lot of poplar trees that were about to be killed. So instead of letting all that lumber go to waste, I decided to make this. 

My table was built completely by hand, without any power tools. I did so because given the rural nature of the design, I thought it would make it feel more genuine. While I'm glad I did so, there were many times I was tempted to grab the drill or circular saw. Decide before you start this whether you want to use power tools or not, it could save you a lot of time.

A lot of the tools and processes used in this instructable are inherently dangerous, be careful, use common sense, wear all necessary safety equipment.

Step 1 Tools and Supplies

The tools I used are:

• Hand Saw
• Machete
• Hammer
• Hatchet
• Steel Wedge
• Gloves
• Spring Nail Punch
• Pocket Knife
• Flathead Screwdriver

As I said in the introduction, a drill and circular saw would make things easier, but would take away some of the authenticity. 

You will also need trees and nails (or screws if you're using a drill). I used both 2" and 2.5" finishing nails.

Comments

[The Metal One]

instead of nails you could put it together with rope to make it even more rural

[whitewolf88]

i notice this is green wood, you had any problems with it drying out and shrinking?

[Weissensteinburg]

I actually just completed the table, and you have a good point. I guess I'll just see what happens.

[red-king]

great instructable. I was going to make a small table like this earlier, but didn't have time.

[scraptopower]

I like this! Very simple and effective. 5*

[diluded000]

You might like some of Roy Underhill's books or his show if you can get it. That guy splits out boards and makes some amazing things. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Roy_Underhill

[Culturespy]

Nice job on the Instructable and the table!

[Brennn10]

I like how you built this without any fancy tools or items that are expensive or hard to find. Your instructions are easy to follow which will allow more people to build it. I think it would look great if you sand the top, and put a nice stain on it. I think that I will just have to build this one before I head off to college.