How To Make A Round Table Top

Building a round table top is a great way to add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your home. It's also a relatively easy project that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and materials.

Materials You'll Need

1/2-inch thick plywood
Circular saw
Jigsaw
Drill
1-1/4-inch Forstner bit
Clamps
Wood glue
Sandpaper
Finishing nails
Hammer

Step 1: Cut the Plywood Circle

Start by cutting a circle out of the plywood. To do this, you'll need to use a circular saw and a compass or a large protractor. First, draw a circle on the plywood using the compass or protractor. Then, set up the circular saw with a blade that is at least as long as the radius of the circle. Carefully cut out the circle, following the line you drew.

Step 2: Cut the Insert

Next, you'll need to cut an insert that will fit into the center of the circle. This insert will provide support for the table's center post. To make the insert, use a jigsaw to cut a circle that is 1/2-inch smaller in diameter than the circle you cut in Step 1.

Step 3: Drill the Holes

Next, you'll need to drill a series of holes around the edge of the circle and in the center of the insert. The holes around the edge of the circle will be used to attach the table's apron, and the hole in the center of the insert will be used to attach the table's center post.

To drill the holes, use a 1-1/4-inch Forstner bit. Drill the holes around the edge of the circle at a spacing of 6 inches. Then, drill a hole in the center of the insert.

Step 4: Glue the Insert

Apply a generous amount of wood glue to the edge of the insert. Then, insert the insert into the center of the circle. Clamp the insert in place until the glue dries.

Step 5: Sand the Tabletop

Once the glue is dry, sand the tabletop smooth. Start with a coarse-grit sandpaper, and then gradually move to a finer-grit sandpaper until the tabletop is smooth to the touch.

Step 6: Attach the Apron

The apron is the frame that surrounds the tabletop. To attach the apron, apply a generous amount of wood glue to the edge of the tabletop. Then, position the apron on the tabletop and clamp it in place. Secure the apron with finishing nails.

Step 7: Finish the Tabletop

The final step is to finish the tabletop. You can do this by applying a stain, paint, or clear finish. Once the finish is dry, your round table top is complete!