Build a low octagonal table

Skill - 2/5

Time - 2 days

 

 

Make two octagonal tables so they can be used singly or positioned togetherto make a 1200mm long surface, the length of a standard coffee table.

Standing about 310mm tall the table is built from solid meranti with meranti edging. It rests on eight legs joined with adhesive to minimise the use of fasteners. The eight-pointed star is created using masking tape with paint. The fish pattern is transferred using a template then painted.

Have the supplier cut opposite 22.5o bevels along 2400 x 240 x 19mm meranti for pieces 235mm wide and 295mm long. Cut 19 x 19mm meranti for the edging and cleats.

Copy the template by drawing it to scale, mark centrelines on the legs then position the template to mark the arch and use a jigsaw to cut.

 

Tip - Switch off the pendulum action to make a finer cut on the curves.

 

Assemble the base Position the legs in a row face down, join the edges with duct tape then turn the assembly over to apply PVA adhesive to the bevelled edges. Roll it into an octagon, wrap more tape around the legs to tighten the joints and leave to dry.

 

Remove the tape and use timber filler in gaps or blemishes, smoothing with 120 then 220 grit abrasive paper. Apply two coats of stain with a brush, using a cloth to wipe away excess.

Position the top pieces together over two sash clamps, mix clear epoxy adhesive and apply it generously to the joints then clamp the top and use smaller clamps to keep the edges flush.

 

Tip - Use plastic wrap to prevent adhesive dripping on the clamps.

 

Smooth off excess adhesive then mark a perpendicular line across the middle of the centre joint and two lines crossing the centre joint at 45o. Mark 300mm from the centre of each line and connect the points to form an octagon.