Round X-Base Table

Cut all the boards as directed, and lay them out so the bevel cuts all taper downward. Mark the center of the long board (13-7/8" from the outsides), then screw the two short arms to the long board. Pocket screws are ideal; without a jig, drive screws at an angle to join the shorter boards to the long one.

Attach the four legs to the top X so that each leg leans outward. The 5° bevels on the X are what let the legs splay — check that all four lean the same amount so the base is symmetric.

Build the bottom X exactly as you built the top X. Mark all four legs 6" from their ends, then attach the bottom X to the legs at those marks. The lower stretcher braces the splayed legs and keeps the base rigid.

This is the part that trips people up. Line up the inside corners of the aprons and attach them to the legs and top X — glue and nail (a brad nailer helps a lot here) or predrill and screw them to the top X. The key: the aprons stay perpendicular to the ground, they do NOT follow the line of the leaning legs. Accept that and they go on cleanly.

Center the round top on the base and attach it — through the aprons or the top X from underneath. If you cut your own top from MDF or plywood, cut the 36" circle with a jigsaw and sand the edge smooth first. Sand the base and finish.