I am newly remarried and combined we are a family of 8, 6 teenaged boys. I have tried in everyway to make the table we already have work for us, but I am just not happy with everybody fighting to get the better seats at dinner time.
I am getting ready to tear down an old barn and was curious if and how I could use that wood to make a great table and long bench? How do I even start?
Thank you!
Forums
Tsu Dho Nimh
Fri, 10/08/2010 - 02:56
http://ana-white.com/category/.....bles
Figure out how long the table needs to be to sit everyone ... then increase the length of the top boards and increase the thickness of the side supports so it doesn't sag in the middle.
You might prefer making two shorter tables that can be used separately or together for a bit more flexibility and easier construction. One larger rectangle that seats 2 on a side and one smaller rectangle, with the longer side equal to the width of the main table. It would look like a console table or sofa table placed at the end of the main table.leter, when the hordes leave, yu could use that table elsewhere until you need the feasting table again.
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xcntry
Fri, 10/08/2010 - 06:05
I LOVE the idea!!! I just really have NO IDEA how to even start!
I know that having more room for people and the food to feed the bottemless pits, my husband included, is important.
Would it look odd longer and thinner? Would it be sturdy? Ugh! I wish I had a handy dandy friend that had time to help walk me through this...
I am going to need a tape measure...I can see that
We do not have a lot of tools, am I going to be able to make this with a drill, skilsaw, hammer and screwdriver? As that is about all we own...
amanda.leonard
Fri, 10/08/2010 - 13:13
I think long and thin is just fine. Plus most dining rooms are set up for more of rectangle table than a huge square. I think it would look great with bench seating on one side too. Plus it allows room for an occasional friend to visit for dinner without squeezing in another chair.
Check out ana's plans for the long and narrow table (http://ana-white.com/2010/02/p.....inner.html)
As for the reclaimed wood, go for it. I was in a huge million dollar home a few weeks back and they had a reclaimed wood table. If they can do it, you can do it! Just pick the boards that are the straightest so construction goes smoothly.
As for tools, you may want to consider borrowing a circular saw. I found that the jig saw blade would curve and it made joints really hard to keep square. The circular saw really helped out with that. Everything else you have should be sufficient.
Good luck!
Tsu Dho Nimh
Fri, 10/08/2010 - 14:31
That table plan sits eight! I missed it when I looked at tables.
I also recommend a circular saw (hand held or table saw type) because it makes straighter cuts. They aren't expensive. Check craigslist first because there are usually a couple listed.
Also get a steel measuring tape and a carpenter's square, and you should be OK for getting things squared up. They are cheap, but essential.
Take your time, work on a FLAT, CLEAN surface, measure carefully, and don't work alone if you are using a saw.