This was project number 2 for the wife to replace some kitchen chairs the dogs chewed on when they were younger. I didn't have a jigsaw so the cutouts in the legs were done with a small hand saw and chisel - i recommend the jigsaw. Cutting and fitting the "x" beams was interesting. After struggling for a bit with remembering basic geometry they came together without too much trouble. I went with three pieces for the top joined with pocket hole screws and seated on top of some left overs from my fancy x desktop boards to beef it up just in case. Staining is always a bit discouraging until the poly goes on then bam!, grain comes out and it looks great.
Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
$100 - (a few initial tool purchases in there too)
Estimated Time Investment
Day Project (6-9 Hours)
Finish Used
Minwax Espresso and Minwax Polyeurathane Clear Gloss (oil) (very shiny)
Recommended Skill Level
Beginner