Make a tabletop using smaller pieces of hardwood

Hardwood goes for a premium price, and larger pieces even more so. Then, what is a person to do if he wants to make a beautiful hardwood tabletop without spending the big bucks?

Veneered plywood is one option, but if you want to make a tabletop out of solid hardwood while saving money, gluing together smaller pieces can be a very easy and visually appealing way of getting your tabletop.

Here, I am working with cherry turning stock.

I made this tabletop, from start to finish, at Techshop in San Francisco. Great place!

Visit their website at: http://techshop.ws/

Step 1 Cut the rough stock

Use the bandsaw to cut the rough stock into smaller planks. Keep in mind that you'll lose at least a 1/4" on all dimensions through the process of jointing and planing. 

Keep track of which planks were cut next to which. This way you can match the patterns for a "bookmatched" effect on the tabletop.

Comments

[DIY Dave]

Looks great