First Coffee Table (japanese inspired)

Hey Jocks,

I’m a new woodworker. This is my first ever coffee table build. Built out of box store pine. The legs are laminated 2×4s, finish on top is pre-conditioner, then apple cider vinegar + steel wool coat (see underside of table) then Provincial stain and one coat of Poly. Legs are white primer.

I loved doing the joinery and getting it perfect. I also had a slight warp to the table top after sitting in my shop for 2 weeks, so I planed it down then tried to level it out using the moisture from the finishes (It worked).

I allowed for expansion of top by doweling the top into the legs only. They will be able to slide along apron pieces.

The thing I’m not happy with is cutting off my dowels, guess I need practice. I used a flush cut dozuki to get them close, then pared them off with a 9mm #2 swiss gouge. Kinda butchered my finish on a few of them, which I already had applied.

Also I don’t like the splotchy parts on the top (the darker parts). Nobody really notices it but I do. Thought the conditioner was supposed to prevent that.

Anyway thanks for looking. I will continue building because I LOVE IT SO MUCH.

Matt

-- From Pittsburgh, PA