Synopsis: This first article in a three-part series on making a tabletop covers choosing the right boards, milling them, and arranging them in the proper sequence. These early decisions on grain, color, and matching can make or break a tabletop, so it’s best to take the time to do things right. Bob Van Dyke shows you how.

Read part two.

Read part three.

 

From Fine Woodworking #207

The top is the most visible part of the table, so you need to get it right. This sounds easy on the surface, but the process is loaded with pitfalls. In this three-part series, I’ll describe my method for producing a tabletop you can be proud of. In this issue, you’ll learn how to choose the best boards, mill them, and arrange them for the best-looking sequence. In part two, I’ll show you how three glue-ups are less traumatic than one. In…