How to Build a Wooden Colonial Folding Table

Colonial folding tables are an elegant and practical additions to home decor. Building your own folding table is a way to create a family heirloom that will be treasured for generations to come. Before embarking on this adventure, be sure you have the proper tools. If you are a new woodworker, be sure to have an expert to consult if needed. There are a number of designs to choose from. The Pembroke (mid-1700s) the Sheraton (1825 -1835); the Duncan Phyfe and Cushman styles are popular folding tables, also known as drop leaf tables. The right pattern for your home can be found online.

Instructions

1

Purchase a Colonial folding table pattern. Select and purchase the wood for the chair. Mahogany is the authentic wood of the Colonial period, but any hardwood will due.

2

Use the ban saw to cut the blocks of wood to width as specified in the pattern. The block sizes for the legs can be approximately 1.5 by 20 by 1.5 inches thick.The table top can be 8.75 by 23 by 3/4 inches thick. The two table leafs can be 7.5 by 23 by 3/4 inches thick. Follow the pattern to cut the other pieces.

3

Cut the bevel on top of each leg and similarly on the end of the table aprons. Cut grooves in the aprons for the joiners and bore holes in all pieces that will be joined. This includes the tongue and groove pieces, the legs and end stretcher piece. Trace the pattern of the legs and table top pieces on the corresponding pieces of wood. Be sure that the grain of the wood flows to the foot of the legs and downward.

4

Cut the legs and table top pieces using a radial saw. Use the lathe to shape the legs as per the pattern. Use the router to finish the table leafs. Assemble all of the parts to ensure that they fit together properly. Make adjustments as needed with the saw or sander.

5

Lay the three pieces of the folding table top on the work bench. Mark the place for the hinges. Use the chisel to create a space for the hinge. Put the wood fasteners in place which will attach the table portion to the leg structure. Bore holes for the screws which will fasten the hinges to the table pieces and to the wooden fastners.

6

Cut the leaf supports and insert the steel pins as per the pattern. Assemble the table pieces and the leg structure. Glue and screw all into place and allow to dry as needed.

7

Sand the piece of furniture using first the 100 grit sand paper. When finished, move to the 180-grit sandpaper and finish with the 220-grit sandpaper.

8

Paint with wood stain and varnish. Be sure to let dry in between applications.