Simple Round Coffee Table With 3D Printing

I've been trying to get into woodworking recently and there is no simpler project than a coffee table. I've decided to build 2 identical tables for my bedroom. I have very limited woodworking tools but I do have a 3D printer which I utilized to create brackets for attaching the legs and the tabletop.

Supplies

Tools:

• Handheld router + bits
• 3D printer
• jigsaw
• drill + bits

Material:

• 18mm thick birch board
• 28mm wooden dowels
• woodscrews

The size mentioned here is specific to my tables but this design is of course scalable, including the brackets.

Step 1: Cutting the Tabletop

I've started by measuring and finding the center point of the table. At this spot, I've drilled a small hole and inserted a small shelf pin. This is going to be the pivot point for the router. Attaching the router to the pivot was quite easy. I've modified the guide fence for the router by adding an aluminum profile with a hole for the shelf pin. This way the radius of the cut can be easily adjusted.

Instead of cutting all the way through the material which would be quite hard for the router, I'm cutting just a shallow groove with a straight bit. I've then used a jigsaw to cut the circle. I suppose you could start with a jigsaw right away but I've had poor results with the tool in the past. Anyway, with the circle cut out I've used a flush-trim bit to get a nice edge and finished it with a chamfer bit.

Step 2: Leg Brackets

I've mentioned before that this project is scalable. This includes these brackets I've designed. I'm including the files for Fusion 360 which means if you have the program as well(available for free for hobbyists), you can adjust the parameters yourself and it will generate a new bracket automatically. It also helps you visualize what the table will look like.

If you don't have Fusion 360, I'm including several brackets at various angles and dowel thicknesses.

Step 3: Final Touches

I've applied a few layers of lacquer on the tabletops and as they were drying I've cut the legs to size and rounded the edges with sandpaper. If you have the project opened you can also create a stencil for pre-drilling the holes for the brackets. This makes the alignment a breeze. Then it's just a matter of attaching everything together.

Step 4: Done

That's it! I'm very satisfied with the result. This project cost me almost nothing and I was surprised to see the table can hold me no problem. I hope you'll find this useful too and please share with me if you build one :)