How to make a basic table

In this video, I'll demonstrate how to make a simple side table using solid lumber. These are classic table-making techniques and can be used for making any table.

Some of what you'll learn:

• Selecting lumber with interesting figure, even if it has knots or imperfections, to add character to the project.
• Assessing and preparing the boards for the tabletop.
• Gluing the boards together to create the tabletop and addressing any bowing.
• Tapering the table legs for added sophistication.
• Cutting out and assembling the apron pieces using pocket hole joinery.
• Using tabletop clips to accommodate wood expansion and contraction.
• Filling voids in the tabletop with a mixture of sanding dust and white glue.
• Sanding and finishing techniques, including using spray lacquer for a durable finish.
• Emphasizing the beauty of natural wood and the potential for wood to change color over time.

The video provides detailed insights into the woodworking process, focusing on creating a simple and elegant table. It also encourages you to embrace simplicity in woodworking design and showcases various techniques and tips throughout the project.

MAILING ADDRESS:

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#woodworking #woodworkingbasics

[ericpetitclerc]

Thank you Mr Ramsey. Like hundreds of thousands here, I missed these videos... It is a form of therapy, do not ask how, , ,

[ghijkmnop]

You have adopted an interesting, matter-of-fact style of presenting over the last few months, and I find it really refreshing.

[the_attic_woodworker]

I really love the mood of your latest videos. They're calm, there's no rush and there's just the right amount of techniques involved. Kudos, Steve

[wrongtool]

Now that's a high-quality video - simple, to the point, welcoming and full of good advice.

This is why you're among my favourite YouTubers

[ashokponnappan]

That moment when u flipped the table on to it's legs for the first time ❤️
Steve, while you are the "gateway drug" to woodworking for millions of people, the rest of us who keep coming back to your channel do it to listen to you! You were such a comforting voice during the first lockdown. Project videos or not, it's great to listen to you!

[LUTE]

I deleted a bunch of sites a few years back and today I added some back yours being one of them. I remembered something about mere mortal woodworking and was delighted to know that you're still at it. Your site really is worth keeping. You're such a good woodworker and I love your sense of humor and your sense of economy. So Steve I'm so happy I found you again. Keep up the good work. I'm a believer.

[chashint]

Thanks for doing this video.
The YouTube woodworking has certainly changed over the years and I am glad you are still here.
Your work during the pandemic lockdown was better than sliced bread.
I truly appreciate you.

[jscook]

YES!! Less gate keeping in woodworking. Brilliant. Loving these videos again. Thank you Steve.

[dennishall]

Great seeing you back in the shop! I've saved many of your old videos and occasionally pull them back up for tips and projects. Again, glad to see you in the shop.

[ryanrank]

I'll admit that you and I have different opinions on some aspects, but I like your approach in that there's more than one right way to do a project as long as you're happy with the outcome. What I really enjoy about your videos is that you do things in a way that just about anyone can do it. No need for tens of thousands of dollars of tools. Thank you for your continued videos!

[Brad_R_LiveFit]

Yes!! I was so excited to see you had released another project video. I really enjoy them because you always end up sharing or demonstrating a nugget or two of forgotten or often overlooked advice. So, I always come away from your project videos just a little bit smarter or wiser in my woodworking. Today's nugget, though you didn't specifically describe it, was when you cut your leg blanks to size, you trimmed 1 end using your miter gauge before flipping the blank and pressing the newly squared end against your stop block and then cutting the blank to its final length. You mentioned cutting on the stop block so all legs would be the same length, but you didn't overtly mention squaring the first end to ensure you had a square surface pressing against your stop block. But, the devil is in the details, and by closely observing your techniques, I came away (as always) with more knowledge than I started with prior to viewing this video.
I usually just trim to length without squaring the "foot" end, but I've had times where my legs weren't quite level and needed to go back and fix them with planes or sanding. I won't experience that anymore, though, because of you. Thanks again. I appreciate all the knowledge you share with us, your fan base.😁

[obivandamme]

Awesome timing. I searched YouTube for a coffee table tutorial yesterday and I don't get what counts as DIY these days. Tools that cost a fortune, epoxy and sooo many techniques I don't understand why you need it for a basic table.
And then today your video released :-)
I do t have time to watch it right now, but in the first two minutes I can already tell, this is exactly what I was looking for. Can't wait to make a cup of tea this evening and relax on the sofa while watching this ☺️

[peterfconley]

“I don’t think I’m very good at achieving simplicity” is one of the best humble brags and I’ll definitely be using it in my next job interview 😂

[pazmaniaoh]

Great build! It is constantly encouraging that you are doing what you love without needing to have a million dollar shop.

[chofbrighton]

Your videos are always helpful and appreciated. One of the most enjoyable aspects is that you utilize standard tools to make beautiful furniture. Thank you for taking the time to share your talent to make our lives easier.

[johannkorn]

as someone whos barely started out at woodworking I find your opinions about design and your approach to building furniture very reassuring and oftentimes I find that some of the pressure that the countless in depth and technically complex woodworking channels that frequently find their way onto my front page is being taken away a little by your videos. thank you!

[pteddie]

Hey, Steve. IMO, this is the best video you've done in a few years. This is a nice, little table and your explanations of the directions were right on and easy to follow.
I've made several of your projects over the years and I'm gonna make a couple of tables following these directions.
My granddaughter is confined to her bed and she is in need of new bedside tables since she has recently obtained a larger bed. FYI: When she a wee little gal, she slept three years in a bed that I built following a set of your plans. Thanks for this video. It reminded me of the 'old days'.
Merry Christmas.

[timcampbell]

I admire the fact you’ve kept it simple all these years. You still use movable tools and work from your garage, while other YouTube makers have moved into huge shops with commercial machines that are worth more than my car. That’s why I always come here for projects and tips. Thank you for keeping it real!

[sonnyaluzzo]

This video is exactly why you are my favorite YouTube woodworker. I, like you, don't have a huge shop with sophisticated machinery. I like simple designs too. Thanks.

[negotiableaffections]

One of the most enjoyable half-hours I've spent recently. This video is a perfect example of your own advice - 'simplicity'. Nice one, Steve.