This was my first project. I learned a ton through the process. Ana's directions were very easy and straightforward.
I purchased the wood (Doug-Fir) from Lowe's and cut it at home with a circular saw. I filled the gaps in the table/benches with a crystal clear silicon caulk - I have mixed feelings about this, since it dried kind of shiny. The coats of polyurethane helped to dull the finish a bit. For the stain, I used Rustoleum Kona, and Minwax Helmsman Spar Urethane Semi-Gloss for the finish.
Like others have suggested, I built the benches first, then the table. This was a great tip, since you can learn the design on a smaller model before tackling the beast of table (it's heavy). I also added some horizontal supports on the ends of the tables/benches, not in the original plans. I just duplicated the end aprons of the table and countersinked/screwed them in at an angle.
Cutting and building the project didn't take nearly as much time as the sanding, staining and finishing. The back-end part of the project was very detail-oriented and stretched out over several days.
Overall, very pleased with the finished project. It was very empowering to know that I can build something like this. Thanks Ana and all of the others with their tips and suggestions! My wife and I know have a long list of other projects to tackle :)
Comments
Ana White
Fri, 06/10/2011 - 11:45
The bed turned out just
The bed turned out just beautiful! Love the finish, and $75? Wow! Thank you so much for sharing with us!
saracrow
Tue, 02/21/2012 - 08:39
Finish
When you say "poly", did you use a polyurethane or a polyacrylic? I am having trouble deciding what to do on the farmhouse headboard we just made!