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Gifts & Small Projects

Building a Modern & Custom Dining Table

Step-by-step build — 12 steps. Also available as a print sheet.

  1. 1Know Before You Go

    Before beginning the assembly, all pieces need to be fully surfaced (S4S) to 1 1⁄2” to ensure an even finish. For a demonstration of this step, please reference the video listed in the Extras tab. You can also purchase S4S lumber and skip this step.

    Building a Modern & Custom Dining Table — step photo 4
  2. 2Assembly (Part 1)

    Cut all the tabletop, table support, and leg pieces to measure 4” wide using a table saw or track saw.

    Building a Modern & Custom Dining Table — step photo 5
  3. 3Assembly (Part 2)

    To assemble the tabletop, add wood glue along the edge of each piece and clamp together using parallel and pipe clamps. Allow the wood to dry for at least 24 hours before moving to the next step.

    Building a Modern & Custom Dining Table — step photo 6
  4. 4Assembly (Part 3)

    • Add wood glue along the edge of each leg piece and the cross pieces and clamp together using parallel and pipe clamps. Allow the wood to dry for at least 24 hours before moving to the next step.
    • Repeat step for each leg panel and support panel.
    Building a Modern & Custom Dining Table — step photo 7
  5. 5Assembly (Part 4)

    Using a router and template, create a box joint to connect the legs with the table support, as shown here. For a demonstration of this step, please reference the video listed in the Extras tab.

    Building a Modern & Custom Dining Table — step photo 8
  6. 6Assembly (Part 5)

    Add wood glue along the inside of the joinery and allow the wood to dry for at least 24 hours before moving to the next step. Repeat steps 4 & 5 for each leg and table support piece.

    Building a Modern & Custom Dining Table — step photo 9
  7. 7Assembly (Part 6)

    There should be a total of 2 leg piece panels like this.

    Building a Modern & Custom Dining Table — step photo 10
  8. 8Assembly (Part 7)

    Set your track saw to a 22- degree bevel and run it along the edge of your tabletop to create this profile. This step is fully optional, depending your desired final look.

    Building a Modern & Custom Dining Table — step photo 11
  9. 9Assembly (Part 8)

    Flip the tabletop over and place leg on each side, flush with the table, with the support section facing towards the tabletop, as shown here.

    Building a Modern & Custom Dining Table — step photo 12
  10. 10Assembly (Part 9)

    Using a 3/8” drill bit, open three pilot holes to attach the legs to the tabletop. Repeat step for both sides. Make sure to drill through the table support until you reach the tabletop, but do not drill through the tabletop. (Tip: You can place tape on your drill bit to achieve the same depth)

    Building a Modern & Custom Dining Table — step photo 13
  11. 11Assembly (Part 10)

    Remove the table legs and install threaded inserts on tabletop using CA glue, as shown in the video in the Extras tab. Repeat step for both sides.

    Building a Modern & Custom Dining Table — step photo 14
  12. 12Assembly (Part 11)

    • Place legs on the tabletop.
    • Align the 3/8” holes and secure leg pieces using bolts from the supply list.
    • Finish table with preferred wood finish.
    Building a Modern & Custom Dining Table — step photo 15