Project Information
In the July & Aug (# 177 & 178 issues) '07 Wood magazine they ran this project as an article. I made this out of my Brazilian dunnage. I have made a couple others from Western Red Cedar and was not as happy with its durability as the hard wood (too soft for the screws to hold tightly with the movement of butts on and off the stools). The article plan calls for the use of a 3/4" deep rabbit joint for joining the seat slats (and table top) to the outer frame. The first set I made I did this. WELL, either my rabbit joints or the choice of woods wasn't up to par as they didn't last and or turn out to my satisfaction. After 2 years in the weather (and it can get wet here in the Seattle area) the joints were coming apart. SO, I switched to the Kreg pockets (as you can see in a couple of pics) and have been extremely pleased with the results. This is great on the patio for a couple or used as a stand up (to eat at) table for a party. The outer frame on table is ipe and most of the slats are jatoba. You MUST pre-drill ipe when used with screws or nails (likes to split). I am in the process of refinishing the set as the first sealer didn't hold up to Seattle weather. I am now using #2501 Superdeck Brand Product ($$$, but worth every penny) designed especially for exotic woods. Penetrates the dense woods wonderfly and in very easy to apply with very little clean up. I hope you all enjoy see it as we really enjoy using it. This is an easy project and produces a lot of enjoyment from its use.