Step-by-Step Shaker Style Dining Table Plans for Beginners

Well, well, if you’re thinkin’ about makin’ one of them Shaker style dinin’ room tables, I gotta tell ya, it’s a mighty fine idea. This here style, it’s been around for a long time, and it don’t go outta fashion. I reckon it’s one of them pieces of furniture that’s simple, sturdy, and just looks right at home in any room. Now, if you’re wonderin’ where to start and how to go ‘bout buildin’ one, I’m here to help you out, step by step, just like my old granny used to say – slow and steady, that’s the way.

First thing first, you gotta choose the right wood. You ain’t gonna want no softwood, mind ya. Go for somethin’ hard like oak or maple. Ain’t no good makin’ a table outta some weak wood – it won’t last long, trust me. Now, if you got the time and the right tools, you can even pick up some reclaimed wood. It gives the table a nice old-fashioned charm, just like them Shaker folks woulda done back in the day.

Now, let’s talk about them legs. A Shaker style table ain’t got no fancy legs, no sir. Them legs, they’re simple, straight, and strong. Most of the time, they’re made with square posts, real sturdy like, and they come down to the ground in a straight line. You ain’t gotta worry about no fancy carvings or whatnot – the beauty of it is in its simplicity. You just need to cut ’em to the right length and make sure they fit snugly with the apron and the table top. Don’t forget to sand ‘em down smooth so you don’t end up with no splinters in your hands.

Speaking of aprons, that’s another part of the table that’s mighty important. The apron is the part that goes under the table, connectin’ the legs to the table top. It’s what gives the table its strength and stability. Now, don’t go skimping on the size of the apron. You want it to be just right, so the table don’t wobble when ya put your elbows on it during dinner. Cut the apron pieces to length and make sure they fit real snug with the legs.

Once you’ve got all the parts cut and ready, it’s time to put ‘em together. You might need some wood glue and a few screws to keep everything in place. Be sure to use a good strong wood glue, like the kind the fancy folks use, and don’t skimp on the screws neither. Them screws gotta hold the table together for years, so don’t be shy about usin’ plenty of ‘em. You don’t want your table fallin’ apart after just a few meals!

Now, when it comes to the table top, that’s where you get a little more creative. Most Shaker style tables have a simple rectangular top, but if you want, you can round the edges a bit or make it a little smaller or bigger, dependin’ on the size of your room. You just want it to look right and feel right, you know? After you’ve got the top cut to size, you can use some wood glue and clamps to hold the pieces together if you’re usin’ more than one board. Make sure the top is nice and level before you attach it to the apron.

When all the pieces are put together, you’ll wanna make sure the whole thing is nice and smooth. Give it a good sanding with some sandpaper, and then give it a nice coat of finish. Some folks like to use oil or wax, but you can use whatever you think looks best. I reckon a good ol’ varnish can make the wood shine real pretty. Don’t rush the finishin’, though – take your time and let each coat dry before you put on another. That’s how you get a smooth, shiny finish that’ll last a long time.

Once it’s all done, you’ll have yourself a Shaker style dinin’ table that’s not only practical but also real pretty. This kind of table don’t just add charm to the room, it’ll last you for years to come, just like the old Shaker folks intended. You won’t need to worry about fixin’ it up every couple of years like them flimsy tables from the big box stores. This one, it’s built to last!

Now, don’t go rushin’ the job, alright? Take your time, measure twice, cut once, like my old man used to say. You’re buildin’ somethin’ that’ll stand the test of time, so give it the time and care it deserves. And don’t forget, a Shaker table ain’t just about looks, it’s about craftsmanship. The simpler, the better, and that’s what makes it so special. So go ahead, get your tools, and start buildin’ yourself a table that’ll be the heart of many family dinners to come.

Tags：[Shaker style dining table, build Shaker table, woodworking, dining room table, DIY furniture, Shaker furniture plans, simple dining table, home improvement, woodworking projects]