Mark the locations for the nails and drill pilot holes through
the sections of the top. Use a carpenter’s square to help mark the
holes accurately.
Mark a centerline on the top edges of the sides to help with the
positioning of the top’s two boards. Then align one half of the top,
insert the nails in the pilot holes, and drive them into place. After
that, nail on the second top board, keeping a small gap between
the two boards to allow them to expand and contract, and for the
inside edges to dry out more easily.
Don’t worry about a finish. The cedar will age to a wonderful
silver gray. The nails might rust and cause some staining, but that
just adds to the table’s rustic charm. □Doug Stowe is a furniture maker in Eureka Springs, Ark., and has written
many articles and books about woodworking. This article is adapted from
his book Rustic Furniture Basics (2009, The Taunton Press).Jigsaw is the right tool for the cutouts. The narrow blade can make
the transition from the bigger diamond to the smaller one without
creating a big gap.Lighten the look. The angled edges make the top appear thinner. By clamping a
saw guide in place as shown, your cuts can be made uniform. Cut the ends first and
then the sides.How to cut into tight corners. Cut straight up the middle first. Remove
most of the waste by cutting proud of the layout lines, then go back and
cut on the line.Give nature a head start. Want the weathered look now?
Spray on an ebonizing solution made by steeping steel wool
in 1 gallon of vinegar. Test on scrap first and add water to
lighten the color from black to weathered gray.shape the edge of the top
The double diamond shape used here can be laid out with a combi-
nation square, or you can design a shape to match your style.cutouts in the sides
http://www.finewoodworking.com OUTDOOR PROJECTS 99
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