making shaker tables

‘re about to embark on a fun and easy journey together.

I’ve always been fascinated by the simplicity and elegance of Shaker furniture. Their clean lines and functional design just resonate with me. So, when I decided to build a shaker table, I knew it was going to be a satisfying project.

Now, I’m not going to lie, building a table isn’t exactly like putting together a Lego set. There are a few steps involved, but don’t worry, I’m here to guide you every step of the way. Just follow me, and you’ll be rocking a beautiful shaker table in no time.

Choosing the Right Wood

First things first, let’s talk about the wood. Think of this like picking out the perfect fabric for a new dress – you want something that feels good and looks good. For shaker furniture, you’re gonna want to go with a hardwood like oak, maple, or cherry. These woods are known for their durability and natural beauty. And don’t forget to look for kiln-dried wood – this ensures that it’s stable and won’t warp over time.

Essential Tools

Now, let’s gather our tools. You’ll need the usual suspects: a saw, a drill, a sander, and clamps. Don’t forget your trusty tape measure and pencil for marking your cuts. If you’re feeling fancy, you can even get yourself a router for creating detailed edges. But hey, no pressure!

The Tabletop

Alright, let’s start with the tabletop. This is the centerpiece of your table, so we want to make sure it’s strong and sturdy. I recommend going with a solid piece of wood, about 3/4″ thick. If you’re going with a larger table, you might need to join multiple pieces together. Don’t worry, there are plenty of ways to do this – you can use a butt joint, a lap joint, or even a mortise-and-tenon joint if you’re feeling extra fancy.

The Legs

Next up, the legs. Shaker tables are known for their simple, straight legs. You can use square legs, turned legs, or even taper the legs for a more modern look. For this project, I’m going with square legs. They’re easy to make and give the table a classic shaker vibe. Just cut your legs to the desired height, and make sure they’re all the same length.

The Apron

The apron is the part that connects the legs to the tabletop. It’s a rectangular piece of wood that runs around the perimeter of the table. The apron provides support for the tabletop and gives the table its overall shape. You can use a simple butt joint to attach the apron to the legs, or get fancy with a mortise-and-tenon joint.

Assembling the Table

Now, for the fun part – putting it all together! Start by attaching the apron to the legs. Make sure to clamp everything in place before you start drilling your pilot holes. Then, attach the tabletop to the apron. And voila! Your shaker table is ready to shine.

Finishing Touches

Here comes the part where you add your personal touch. You can leave the table in its natural wood finish, or stain it to match your decor. If you want a more polished look, you can apply a sealant or wax. And remember, safety first – always wear a mask when sanding or using chemicals.

Beyond the Basics

Now, let’s get a little creative, shall we? You can customize your shaker table in all sorts of ways. Here are a few ideas:

Add a drawer: This is a great way to add extra storage space.

Use different wood types: For example, you could use oak for the tabletop and maple for the legs.

Add a decorative inlay: For a touch of artistry, you can inlay a piece of contrasting wood into the tabletop.

Let’s Talk Shaker Style

Now, let’s talk about those Shakers! Their furniture is all about simplicity and functionality. They believed in making things that were both beautiful and practical. You can see this in the clean lines, the simple joinery, and the absence of unnecessary ornamentation. So, when you’re building your shaker table, keep this philosophy in mind.

Tips for Success

Here are a few extra tips to help you out:

Start small: If you’re new to woodworking, it’s a good idea to start with a smaller project, like a small side table.

Practice your cuts: Make sure you’re comfortable with your saw before you start cutting your table parts.

Don’t rush: Woodworking is a slow process. Take your time and don’t be afraid to ask for help.

Enjoy the process: Building a table is a rewarding experience.

Here’s a table that shows some different wood types you can use for your shaker table:

And there you have it! Building a shaker table is a rewarding experience. You get to work with your hands, create something beautiful, and have a piece of furniture that you can be proud of. Now get out there, grab your tools, and let your creativity flow!

So, what do you think? Are you ready to embark on your shaker table journey? Share your thoughts and ideas in the comments below!