Russell Wilson

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20230506 Coffee Table Update

In this final update, we will run through the various steps to bring this table project to a close. All the major components have been cut to size and shaped, but now we have a number of small details to wrap up. We start first on the underside of the top. Solid wood panels can move with changes to temperature and humidity. Not only does it change dimensions (in fact your table top may change upwards of 1/8" in width or so over the various seasons), it can take on some warps or cups creating a wavy surface. This is highly dependent on the quality of the material and its moisture content. This is actually one of the primary reasons to kiln dry hardwood.

20230402 Coffee Table Update

Since the last update, the final form of the table has taken shape. Starting with the blank panels that were glued up and ready for profiling, I used the template to mark the shape, then I cut the profile out from the larger panels. The bottom shelf was also cut to shape with a slightly smaller size taken from the top panel. From there, I was able to do a first initial sanding to clean up the panels.

20230313 Coffee Table Update

For this particular project, a good starting point was the legs. Normally, one would use a lathe to turn these round. This is an area I don’t work in much, thus for any round items, I typically resort to a hand-shaping method. A lathe will definitely be on the shopping list if I ever get a larger order that includes a number of round items!

20221010 Blanket Chest Final Update

Since the last update, I only had a few last steps to complete. This started with the feet, final cleanup and sanding, and then the finish!

20220926 Blanket Chest Update

Since the last update, I moved on to the lid and internal details of the case. The first additions to the raw case were a few strips surrounding the upper rim where the lid will sit and the internal cedar lining will terminate. You can see those in place and clamped allowing the glue to dry below.

20220912 Blanket Chest Update

Projects typically start with the rough breakdown of material and layout of various parts from the rough lumber. Here I can select the best grain patterns possible and plan for various parts that will “show” and those that will be hidden. Defects can then be planned around and include appropriately to balance maximizing the rough material usage with minimal waste while keeping with the desired grian pattern quality.

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