I want to build a small dining table for my in-laws (30"x48"). Just your basic four square legs and four rails connected with mortise and tenon joints. Top fastened from below. I've never done mortise and tenon joints before, so I thought this would be a great project to practice (learn) new skills.
However, we really like the look of cedar, and I have used it for a variety of projects like the sides of their vanity cabinet. But I'm curious if it would be strong enough for a mortise and tenon table like this? And would it be crazy to have a soft wood like cedar as a table top? I plan on applying three or four coats of a glossy oil based poly, but I don't know if that would be enough to keep it from denting every time you set a glass down?
Assuming cedar is just not acceptable for this application, would regular poplar from the home center work OK? I've used that wood for many projects also and once stained and poly'ed it looks rather nice, and doesn't cost a fortune.
My only real wood options are those I can find at the home centers (cedar, pine, poplar, hemlock, and oak). I've never really cared for the look of oak, and it's the most expensive of the bunch, but maybe it's the best option for this project?
Thanks,
Anthony