Woodworker's Journal 2009-33-3, страница 54

Installing the Tabletop and Benchtops

rails are square to (he crossbraces. Drill a single, l/2"-diameter hole down through the end rails of the tops and into the top rails of the leg frames. Then, remove the top and extend these holes clear through to house a carriage bolt, washer and wingnut.

Bore four 1/2"-diameter bolt holes through the top rails and into the leg frame rails. Check the Top Assembly Drawing for locations.

Secure the top to the leg framework with carriage bolts, washers and wingnuts. They should only be tightened finger tight.

Finishing Up with Primer and Paint

To keep the finish on your furniture looking good for years, you'll have to lake some care when painting. Be sure the wood is dry before you begin. Then apply several coats of oil-based primer-sealer to all exposed, bare surfaces (especially the end grain). Take care to seal the end grain well. It's a good idea to allow the primer to go into the pre-bored screw holes, too. Finish up with several coats of a quality, oil-based enamel, allowing the paint lo dry thoroughly between coats. (Use line steel wool to de-nib Ihe paint between coals if needed.) An occasional waxing will afford an extra measure of protection.

If your patio lends to be damp, consider adding nylon or metal glides to the legs to keep water from wicking up into the wood.

I Mrs Dalsgaard is a woodworker, photographer and writer who lives in Denmark.

To attach the tabletop or benchtops to the leg assemblies, position the top carefully, adjusting its overhang, and clamp it in place.

Remove the top frame and finish boring the hole for the bolts. Clamp a block of scrap under the rail to back up the exit hole.

If you prefer, you may alter the look of the table and benches by using large outdoor tile for the top surfaces instead of wooden slats. The tiles offer a more modern design twist to this outdoor table and bench combo.

If you decide to use tiles, they can still rest on the slat cleats, but you will need to add more support strips to the top edge of the crossbrace to securely support the edges of the tile along the middle joints.

Woodworker's Journal June 2009

53