Building a Side Table with a Drawer
Tools, materials and information
 
Preparations and Wood

The side table that I have in mind is approximately 30" tall, 16" deep and 20" wide, with plenty of potential for your variations in dimensions.  The aprons are about 4" wide and the the drawers about 3" tall.  The legs are tapered from 2" thick stock. (See web site for examples.)  Including waste, the desk requires about 10 board feet of 4/4 material and about six board feet of 8/4 for the four legs. You can bring wood or I will have wood on hand for sale - let me know if you need wood.

Make a drawing for yourself of the side table, no matter how rough! There is no need to worry about the construction details; we will work them out in class. From your drawing, make up a parts list with names and approximate dimensions.

If you will be bringing wood look for wood that is suitable for the parts from your parts list rather than focusing solely on the quantity of wood that you need. For a challenge you might try and puzzle out the complete table from one 8/4 (2" thick) board!

 
Tool List

• Dovetail saw
• Cutting gauge…cuts across the grain  (A “wheel”  (disc) marking gauge works best.)
• Dovetail marking gauge or sliding bevel
• 2 in. to 3 in. steel square
• 6" rule
• Combination Squares - 12" and 6"
• Tape measure (shorter is better)
• Dead blow hammer (14 to 20 oz.) – No rubber mallet
• Sharp bevel edge chisel set
• Safety equipment: safety glasses, dust mask, hearing protection

I will have a variety of extra tools on hand for you to try.

A full catered lunch is served every day and drinks and snacks are provided all day. Please let us know of any special dietary needs.
 
Call or email me with any questions on tools, materials or design and check the web site for any updates.

Remember that any tuition balance is due 60 days before class. Make your lodging reservations.
 
Kelly Mehler (859) 986-5540 | kelly@kellymehler.com