Reading Table Plan & Design

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Here is a basic table design that can accommodate many uses. The table shown in the photo was made of redwood and assembled using waterproof glue and galvanized fasteners.Because it was designed to serve as a deck table,it is somewhat low in height. However,you can easily substitute other woods,use standard glue and fasteners,and raise the column height a few inches to create a handsome reading or dining table for the interior of your home.

Reading Table Blueprint

Use the pattern provided to make a template for the feet(B), then lay them out on the lumber. By alternating directions and overlapping the feet,you can cut them out of 2 x 8 stock with minimal waste.
Form the top(D) by edge-gluing three pieces of 2 x 8 stock (or more numerous pieces of narrower stock). After the glue dries, sand the panel flat and trim it to the finished dimensions given in the list. Round overall edges with a router.
Cut the remaining parts to the dimensions provided.
Arrange the column sides(A)with their edges chasing each other,then fasten them into square columns using wood glue and 3dfinishing nails. Set the nails just below the surface.
On the stretcher face of each column, center and drill a pair of 5/16″-diameter pilot holes, one2-1/2″and the other 5″from the bottom. Center and drill a pair of holes of the same diameter through the remaining faces of each column; locate these holes 1″ and 3-1/2″ from the bottom.
Center and drill a pair of 7/32″-diameter pilot holes into each end of the stretcher(C) and into the back of each foot, using the same2-1/2″ center-to-center spacing used on the columns. Set the lower holes in the feet 1″ above the bottom edge of their backs as indicated in the template pattern. Locate the holes in the stretcher 1″ up from the bottom and 1″ down from the top edges. Drill these holes as deep as necessary for installing the lag-thread ends of the hanger bolts.
Lag the hanger bolts into the feet and the stretcher,then fasten these parts to the two columns.Secure the bolts with lock washers and nuts.
Center the top brackets(E) over the column tops and fasten them in place using #8×1-1/2 flathead wood screws.
Lay the top upside down on a flat surface. Miter the ends of the apron pieces(F,G), then arrange them in a rectangle on the underside of the top.Make sure the apron is centered along the length and width.
Fasten the apron to the top using#10 x 2-1/2″countersunk flat-head wood screws. Avoid using glue in this assembly since both the top and apron will tend to expand and contract with changing humidity.
Center the apron/top assembly over the leg/column assembly.Fasten them together by driving#8 x 1-1/2″ flathead wood screws through the brackets into the top.(You will find this easier to do with the entire assembly turned upside down.)
Sand the table and finish according to taste.