Cabinets, Furniture, Woodworks/question on solid top

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Expert: - 4/1/2009


Question

Table
I am trying to build the attached table & base, which I designed.  Actually it will have 2 of the pedestals shown in the attached.  The top is going to be about 72" and the width around 40.  I am trying to get a real slim profile top.  The base is cherry, except for the walnut part of the pedestal.  My question is how do I keep a top, w/out an apron, from splitting?  Hope I explained this correctly.  Would a sliding dovetail work?
Thank you,

GH

Answer
Gene,

I'm not sure why you think a table top like this would split, assuming that it's been put together properly. That means proper lamination of the pieces, using KD wood, and then sanded and finished properly. I've see a lot of tables, and the only ones that I've ever noticed problems with have resulted in things like failed glue joints, improper finishing (only one side) or sanding the wood so much that the glue is heated and then softens, resulting in a split at the glueline.

So I recommend that you choose your wood from kiln dried stock, trim off any ends that show checking before you glue the top together, and after you've planed and sanded it, finish it with a finish that will protect it from moisture entering the end grain. I like a couple of coats of danish oil, and then after it's cured, a couple coats of poly. You get that great color from the oil, and protection from the poly.

A sliding dovetail could actually make more problems for you, since the two pieces of wood would have the grain running in opposite directions. As the wide table top wants to move, the dovetail wouldn't be moving as much, and some splitting is likely to occur. If you make it a loose dovetail, well... it sort of defeats the purpose of it, although it will keep your tabletop nice and flat. But like I said, it could increase your chances of splitting.

I hope this helps. If I'm missing something in your question and you'd like to clarify it, please write back and I'll try to help again.

Jamie Yocono
Wood It Is! Custom Cabinetry
Las Vegas, NV
www.wooditis.com  
    Questioner's Rating
    Rating(1-10)Knowledgeability = 10Clarity of Response = 10Politeness = 10
    CommentThanks 2 Jamie..I give 10's & appreciate his time


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Jamie Yocono

Expertise

Woodworker, Furniture designer/builder, industrial arts educator. Bachelor degree in Furniture Design, and journeyman carpenter, with a 4 year apprenticeship. Currently owner of custom furniture/cabinet shop in Las Vegas, NV. Can answer most woodworking questions EXCEPT those regarding repairs, refinishing, and antiques.

Experience

Bachelor in Furniture Design - Ohio University (1980) Journeyman Carpenter, Local 639 Adult educator - Developed adult education woodworking program for the University of Akron, and taught classes there for 9 years. Opened a private woodworking school in Las Vegas, NV and teach private and semi-private lessons. In 2011, I will begin teaching UNLV woodworking classes at my school. Sweet!

Organizations
Furniture Society

Publications
Tile Design and Installation Magazine (Article on inlaying tile into wood)

Education/Credentials
Journeyman Union Carpenter Bachelors degree in Furniture Design (Ohio University) College of Hard Knocks!

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