Synopsis: Since the very first table was built of wood, furniture makers have faced the challenge of holding a tabletop securely to its base while allowing it to expand and shrink with the seasons. Everyone has a favorite technique; here, Bob Van Dyke looks at five of the simpler methods, from shopmade to store-bought: figure-8 clips, screw pockets, table mounting clips, cabinetmaker’s buttons, and ledger strips.

All solid wood will move with the seasons. A board will increase in width as atmospheric humidity increases and shrink in width when the humidity decreases. Since the beginning, furniture makers have faced the challenge of holding a tabletop securely to its base while allowing for this movement.

There’s no shortage of techniques. Here I’ll show you a few of the simpler methods available, from shopmade to store-bought. In all cases, be absolutely sure that there is no chance of the screw even…