** VINTAGE AD COFFEE TABLE **

Continuing on with the Herman Miller surfboard table concept, we decided to make a new modern version with a twist. Using ads from a calendar, they were decoupaged onto the plywood and then later covered in epoxy resin.

Step 1: Cut the Shape

Using a template from previous projects, we used the router to cut out the table from Baltic birch plywood (not shown in pic)

Baltic birch is used for its stability - it's comprised of 13 layers.

Step 2: Selecting the Layout

First we needed to select which ads we wanted for the table. We chose a mix of famous brands as well as cool/funny ones. We also needed to figure out the layout of the ads - random, straight lines vertically,horizontally, or offset.

Step 3: Decoupage

After establishing a horizontal reference line for the ads to follow - we decoupaged each ad into place.

We used 3 tops coats - and found the usual issues of wrinkling. We found that putting a plastic bag down over the semi-dry ad, then running the laminate roller over it worked the best.

Step 4: Epoxy Time

We have found that heating the epoxy in hot water before mixing breaks down the viscosity and makes for a better and much easier pour.

Step 5: Adding Laminate

We cut and glued laminate onto the underside of the table to add stability. To prevent warping of the wood, you must balance it out.

Here's how it's done:

Spread glue onto table bottom and laminate.

Let it 'tack' (~15-20 minutes).

Lay out wood dowels onto the table.

Placed the laminate onto the dowels, then removed one at a time (from the center outward) while pressing the laminate into the glue.

Once all dowels were removed, we took a laminate roller and pressed out the bubbles.

Once dry, I put the template onto the table and used the router to get the finished edge shown.

Step 6: Finished Product

And here's the finished product.

Hope you like it....enjoy:~)