Well, even though the thermostat said 106, I still managed to get the table done this afternoon... okay, not exactly done. I still have to spray a finish on it, but we're close enough to be excited. I snapped some pics while it was soaking in the rays after a coat of BLO. I can't recommend this step enough to those who want jump start the aging process. There is no substitute for good ole' uv rays, especially after applying oil.
It's pretty standard construction - mortise and tenon. This was the first time I used square pegs. I did this because I wanted square pegs in the chairs I building as well. They're smaller than I normally use but I watched K. Mehler's video awhile back and he used 1/8" pegs. It's a bit more subtle than the 1/4" peg.
The extenders came from Lee Valley as did the brass lock. I bought brass alignment pins as well, but I didn't end up using them. Perhaps when I build the leaf. I didn't build the leaf yet because of the lack of need. I figure I should use the cherry pile for other more necessary projects.
The one construction item that gave me pause was cutting the frame in half. I was going to cut it on the table saw, but it just didn't feel safe at 56" wide. Instead it was FESTOOL to the rescue. I clamped the frame to the multi-function table and cut it this way. Perfect!!!
The grain matching isn't the best in the world, but I did my best with what I had. Now I'll wait a week or so and get to work on putting the final finish on it.
Thanks for looking.
BTW, the dimensions are just under 60" square.
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