Crafting a Colossal Timber Table

InfoThis is a summary of the following YouTube video:

2000 Pound Table

Blacktail Studio

Oct 10, 2024

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Howto & Style

Introduction

  1. The project involves creating a large timber-framed table using timber frame joinery, which is a favorite construction method of the author.
  2. Timber frame joinery involves using large square timbers, wooden pegs, and intricate joinery to create durable and artistic structures.
  3. The inspiration for the project came from a company called Settlement Post and Beam, which made an outdoor table using this method.
  4. The author sought permission from Settlement Post and Beam to replicate their design on a larger scale for a video project.
  5. The project requires converting approximately a thousand board feet of Douglas fir into a giant outdoor table.
  6. Initial steps included drafting plans, which were then refined by a collaborator named Scott to create a detailed cut list with all necessary measurements.
  7. The process involves cutting, milling, and joining the wood according to the detailed plans to construct the table.

Family History Woodworking

  1. The narrator often receives questions about their family's history in woodworking, with many assuming their father was a woodworker. While the narrator believes there is some truth to this, their father humorously claims the woodworking talent skipped generations and went directly to the narrator.
  2. At 18, the narrator, their father, and a contractor friend built the house where the father currently resides. The narrator is unsure of their own contribution to the project but acknowledges their father's competence in craftsmanship, despite not pursuing fine woodworking extensively.
  3. The narrator's great-great-grandfather, Frank August Anderson, was a remarkable craftsman who worked in an era before modern conveniences like YouTube tutorials and advanced power tools. He performed all tasks manually, showcasing exceptional skill and dedication.
  4. The narrator possesses several tools from their great-great-grandfather, dating back to the late 1800s. These tools serve as a testament to the craftsmanship required during that period, highlighting the challenges faced in building structures like houses.
  5. Frank August Anderson was known for his ability to construct a house from scratch, often taking up to two years to complete a project. He also contributed to the construction of a notable church in Salem, demonstrating his significant impact and legacy in woodworking.

Milling Lumber (by hand*)

  1. The narrator reflects on their woodworking heritage, mentioning their great-great-grandfather's use of hand tools and their father's belief in a 'woodworking gene' skipping generations. They humorously note their lack of skill compared to their ancestors.
  2. Initially, the narrator planned to use industrial machinery in Portland to process the timbers quickly but decided to mill the lumber by hand in their small shop for the sake of a video, which took a day to complete.
  3. They express admiration for their nephew, Brooklyn DePriest, who is on the US snowboard team and may compete in the next Olympics, contrasting this with their own lack of athletic ability.
  4. The narrator shares a family story about their grandfather, an accomplished athlete who played for Oregon State University and the 49ers, and has a park named after him in Bend, Oregon.
  5. The project involves building a giant timber-framed table with built-in benches, using mortise and tenon joinery, half-lap joints, and wood pegs, with the current focus on a vertical support pillar for the table base.
  6. The narrator uses graphics in the video to help viewers visualize the construction process, acknowledging their inexperience and hoping the final product matches the renderings.

Cutting Tenons (easy ones)

  1. The milling process, though time-consuming, is crucial for transforming rough lumber into perfectly square posts, essential for assembling large furniture pieces accurately.
  2. The author sets the table saw height to 2 inches for cutting tenons from 7-inch square lumber, ensuring precision if all measurements and squaring are correct.
  3. Successfully cutting the tenon on the band saw is satisfying, marking a small victory in the early stages of a project.
  4. Years ago, the author faced a challenge with disorganized sandpaper storage, initially using a large plastic tub, which proved inefficient.
  5. Over time, various methods were tested to improve sandpaper organization, highlighting the importance of efficient tool and material management in woodworking.

Easy Sandpaper Storage

  1. The speaker discusses the common issue with plastic tubs used for sandpaper storage, highlighting their poor construction, such as breaking tabs and hinges.
  2. To address this problem, the speaker has released a new product, the Blacktail Studio sandpaper storage bin, designed specifically for storing sandpaper.
  3. This new storage bin is described as a purpose-built solution, implying it is more durable and suitable for its intended use compared to generic plastic tubs.
  4. The speaker suggests that this storage bin would make an excellent gift for woodworkers, especially with the holiday season approaching.
  5. The speaker personally uses six of these bins, indicating their utility and necessity for woodworkers who often require multiple storage solutions.
  6. A link is provided for those interested in purchasing, with a recommendation to buy the bins that include sandpaper for the best value.

Cutting Tenons (hard ones)

  1. The author discusses the process of learning and problem-solving in woodworking, acknowledging that sometimes better methods are realized only after completing a project. They invite feedback for future improvements.
  2. The author reflects on the assumption that their father must have been a skilled woodworker to influence their own journey. They argue against this, sharing a story from their youth that had a significant impact on their approach to challenges.
  3. The story involves the author's father buying a non-functional motorcycle and confidently stating he would figure out how to fix it, despite lacking mechanical expertise. This attitude of problem-solving and determination inspired the author.
  4. The author contrasts this with a cautionary tale about a colleague who, despite being a pilot, lacked hobbies or interests outside work. His son mirrored this lack of engagement, highlighting the importance of setting a positive example.
  5. The author emphasizes the influence of parental behavior on children, suggesting that active engagement and a problem-solving mindset can inspire similar traits in the next generation.

Testing New Tools

  1. The speaker reflects on a previous timber framing project where they built a staircase with a friend, Johnny, using inadequate tools, specifically two large timber slicks, which were criticized by experienced timber framers.
  2. For the current project, the speaker decided to completely overhaul their timber framing tools to improve the quality of their work.
  3. The new tools acquired include a Mel Bansa, Japanese slick, Damascus marking knife, saw, overpriced pencil, framing chisels, and shop shades.
  4. The speaker initially had predictions about which tool would become their favorite or most invaluable during the project.
  5. After completing the project, the speaker was surprised by which tool turned out to be the most valuable, noting it was not the Damascus marking knife, despite selling it themselves.
  6. The speaker emphasizes the importance of having the right tools for timber framing, suggesting that the marking knife is a crucial tool to have.

Mafell Bandsaw

  1. The speaker discusses trying out a new, expensive tool for the first time, expressing nervousness about using it and needing to Google how to turn it on.
  2. The speaker humorously suggests that if someone finds Festool's $1,000 circular saw too cheap, they should consider Mafell, which offers even more expensive tools.
  3. Mafell is compared to Festool but is noted to be more focused on timber framing, offering high-end tools like a $5,000 circular saw, an $88,000 chainsaw, and an $800 jigsaw.
  4. The speaker acknowledges that while Mafell tools are excellent, they are also very expensive, similar to Festool, and advises potential buyers to be prepared for the high cost.

Japanese Timber Slick

  1. The speaker highlights their favorite tool for the project, the Japanese Timber Slick, which they acquired from the Shelter Institute. This tool is not part of a sponsorship, but the Shelter Institute has been supportive in suggesting tools and products for the project.
  2. The Japanese Timber Slick is praised for its exceptional edge retention and utility throughout the project. The speaker emphasizes its importance over other tools, even recommending it over their Damascus marking knife.
  3. The speaker expresses surprise at the project's progress, particularly noting the accuracy and squareness of the tenons, which exceeded their expectations.

Marking/Cutting Mortise

  1. The speaker compares the time-consuming nature of woodworking to long drives, suggesting that while the project is lengthy, it is manageable with the right mindset. This analogy helps set expectations for the project's duration.
  2. Despite having many tools, the speaker lacks a mortising machine, which would be ideal for the task at hand. Instead, they use a drill press with an auger bit to remove most of the material, followed by cleaning up with a chisel.
  3. Mortising machines are praised for their ability to create perfectly square holes efficiently, which would have expedited the process compared to the current method being used.
  4. Japanese woodworking tools are noted for their hard steel, which holds a sharp edge well but is more brittle compared to Western chisels. This characteristic requires careful handling to avoid chipping or breaking.

How Often to Sharpen

  1. The speaker discusses the sharpness of their tool after cutting tenons, noting it remains effective without frequent sharpening, only requiring occasional strapping.
  2. They describe experimenting with different methods for creating mortises, initially using a marking knife and chisel, which proved time-consuming and not ideal.
  3. A 90° block is used to maintain chisel alignment, but the process is labor-intensive, especially with deep cuts, leading to a search for more efficient techniques.
  4. The speaker humorously notes the selective editing of social media videos, which often make woodworking appear easier than it is, especially with hard woods like fur.
  5. They acknowledge the value of learning hand tool techniques despite the challenges, as it enhances skill and understanding of the craft.
  6. A 'cheat code' method is introduced using a flush trim router bit with melamine to create mortises more efficiently, reducing the need for hand chiseling.
  7. The speaker critiques their largest router bit, the 'Big Daddy,' for being slow but effective when used carefully, especially for deep cuts.
  8. Positivity from a colleague, Scott, is appreciated, providing encouragement and affirmation during the challenging project.
  9. Aligning the mortises perfectly is highlighted as the most difficult part of the project, requiring precision to avoid excessive slop.

Medium Problem

  1. The problem encountered was a shoulder being slightly longer than others, which was not surprising but needed fixing for a tight fit. The solution involved using a track saw to nick the shoulder and a Timber slick to feather it into the rest, which surprisingly worked.
  2. Learning a new skill often follows a reverse exponential curve, where the first attempt takes the longest, and subsequent attempts become progressively faster, though not as dramatically after the third try.
  3. The author describes their experience with mortise and tenon joinery, noting initial difficulty but improvement over time. They felt more professional as they learned tricks to speed up the process.
  4. A specific trick learned was not needing to make corners square, finding it easier to work on the tenon than the mortise. By creating a 5/8 inch roundover, the tenon slid in easily, significantly reducing the time needed for mortise and tenon creation.

Level Up

  1. The speaker introduces the concept of 'Wins Above Replacement' (WAR) from baseball, suggesting it could be applied to tools. This concept measures how much better a tool is compared to a cheaper alternative.
  2. The speaker provides an example of a tool with a low WAR rating: the Mel jigsaw. Despite being an excellent tool, its high cost of $800 is not justified when a $100-$150 jigsaw can perform similarly.
  3. Conversely, the Mafell bandsaw is highlighted as having a high WAR rating. It is unique in its ability to cut complex curves on large timber, a task that other tools cannot easily replicate.
  4. The speaker reflects on the importance of considering WAR ratings when purchasing high-end tools, especially on a limited budget. This approach helps in identifying tools that offer the best value for money.
  5. The speaker expresses interest in learning about other tools with high WAR ratings and invites viewers to share their suggestions in the comments.
  6. The speaker describes a technique used to ensure precision when drilling holes for wood pegs. By marking and drilling through one side first, it acts as a guide for the rest of the drilling process, ensuring straightness.

Woodworking Trick to Look Better

  1. The text describes a woodworking trick using a 45° chamfer bit to improve the appearance of a project. This tool creates a clean, sharp edge around the perimeter, enhancing the overall look.
  2. The chamfer bit not only improves aesthetics but also disguises small gaps, such as a 1/16 inch gap, that might be visible if aiming for a perfect fit. This built-in flaw appears intentional and polished.
  3. The author mentions using a block plane to clean up and connect lines that the router didn't fully catch, especially on legs with a 10° angle, ensuring uniformity in the design.
  4. The project is an outdoor table designed to withstand the weather conditions of Western Oregon, implying the need for durability and weatherproofing.

Weather Proofing the End Grain

  1. The project involves sealing the end grain and tenons on vertical support pieces to protect them from rain damage. This is crucial for maintaining the integrity of the timber-framed table with built-in benches.
  2. Total Boat Penetrating Epoxy is used for sealing because it quickly and easily soaks into the wood grain without leaving a thick film. This is important to preserve the tight fit of the joints.
  3. The application of penetrating epoxy should be minimal, only as much as the wood naturally absorbs, to avoid altering the fit of the joints. This contrasts with tabletop epoxy, which is applied in thicker layers.
  4. An issue arose when the wood swelled after applying the epoxy, causing the previously perfect fits to no longer align. This necessitates redoing the fitting work.
  5. Advice from Shelter Institute suggests that typically no adhesive is used on pegs or mortise and tenon joints in large structures, as the weight of the structure is sufficient to hold them in place.
  6. Despite this advice, a decision was made to add a little extra thick epoxy as an adhesive to ensure the joints are secure, erring on the side of caution.

Installing Pegs/Assembly

  1. The project involves building a giant timber-framed table with built-in benches using mortise and tenon joinery, half-lap joints, and wood pegs.
  2. Epoxy is used in the project, which requires quick clamping to avoid setting issues, and care is taken to prevent epoxy from interfering with the auger bit path.
  3. A backer board is used to prevent blowout when drilling, and although using glue like Tight Bond 3 is not typical for timber framing, it is applied for extra caution.
  4. The slabs for the tabletop and benches are sourced from GOI Walnut, with two slabs specifically selected as a book match sequential pair for the tabletop.
  5. The slabs are massive, each over 16 feet long, and careful orientation is needed to ensure the best layout for the book match pair.

Cutting Top to Size

  1. The narrator appreciates having Scott, a video guy, in the shop for his valuable feedback on tabletop layouts. Scott provides insights that help improve the design process.
  2. Their working relationship is likened to that of a documentary filmmaker, where Scott mostly observes and allows the narrator to make mistakes for the sake of the video content.
  3. In this instance, Scott breaks his usual rule by expressing concern about the stability of the setup, specifically asking if the narrator is worried about something falling off.
  4. The narrator initially dismisses Scott's concern, not considering the possibility of the track falling, only the wood. This oversight highlights the unexpected challenges in woodworking projects.
  5. The situation humorously underscores the unpredictability of woodworking, where even experienced individuals can overlook potential issues.

New Language Tracks

  1. The creator has added multiple audio tracks in different languages to their YouTube channel, allowing viewers to change the language of the video to eight different languages using AI software.
  2. The AI software translates the creator's voice into other languages, making it sound like the creator is speaking those languages, even though they only speak English.
  3. The creator finds the technology impressive but notes that the Hindi translation sounds awkward due to it being a Hindi-English hybrid, which resembles a character from The Simpsons.
  4. The creator invites viewers to test the translations by changing the audio track via the gear icon on YouTube and is curious about the accuracy of the translations from native speakers.
  5. Feedback on the translations has been mixed, with some languages like Russian and Spanish having minor errors, while Portuguese is praised for its accuracy, and Japanese is noted as not being great.
  6. The creator welcomes new international viewers and encourages all viewers to subscribe for more content related to timber framing and woodworking.

Cutting Big Notches

  1. The author finds woodworking satisfying, especially tasks like using a sharp hand plane, chiseling, and pounding oak pegs. They have a new favorite activity: curve cutting on a large scale, which they find enjoyable.
  2. The table being built is over 12 feet long and 8 feet wide, requiring a large space. Initially, the author considered placing it in a public park in Portland, despite the risk of vandalism, but grew attached to the project and sought a better location.
  3. The author faced challenges in finding a suitable place for the table, making phone calls to find the best spot. They were nervous about drilling holes without pre-drilling, suspecting the holes might not be perfectly straight, but ensured strength by adding more pegs from the backside.
  4. The author enjoyed making curve cuts and trying new joinery techniques, but realized they made a significant mistake early in the build, which was only noticed after setting the top on the table.

Big Problem, Big Solution

  1. The project encountered a significant issue when the table base was mistakenly built taller than intended, reaching almost 33 inches instead of the planned 30 inches. This height was impractical for use, especially for shorter individuals.
  2. To address the height problem, a bold solution was proposed: curve cutting the table base to reduce its height by nearly 2 inches. This method was unconventional and had not been attempted before, but it was deemed feasible.
  3. The challenge with using traditional tools like a track saw or band saw was that the wooden pegs in the table's construction obstructed the tools' operation. Additionally, using a large jointer was impractical due to the physical demands and precision required.
  4. Despite initial doubts and extensive discussion, the curve cutting method was executed successfully, taking about 45 minutes to complete. The process was satisfying and effective, demonstrating the importance of decisive action in problem-solving.
  5. One downside of the height adjustment was the exposure of some mortises, which were filled with epoxy to maintain the table's appearance. A further plan was devised to cover these areas more effectively.

Half Lap Joinery

  1. The vertical supports are crucial for the stability of the benches under the large table, which spans over 8 feet. These supports are designed to handle the weight of any person using the bench, ensuring durability and safety.
  2. The supports are 5 to 6 inches thick and are positioned vertically beneath the benches. Initially, there was a consideration to simply screw them down, but the decision was made to maintain the half-lap joinery for consistency and strength.
  3. The joinery theme is continued throughout the project, ensuring all components fit together seamlessly. This approach enhances the overall aesthetic and structural integrity of the table.
  4. Despite the intention for all pieces to be interchangeable, practical experience shows that each piece often fits best in a specific location. Therefore, careful marking of each piece is essential to ensure proper assembly.
  5. A minor issue arose when pieces were initially placed incorrectly, highlighting the importance of careful planning and execution in woodworking projects. This was quickly resolved, demonstrating adaptability and problem-solving skills.

Chamfer

  1. The project involves maintaining a consistent 45-degree chamfer theme across the table, which enhances its polished appearance.
  2. Challenges arose in achieving the chamfer right up to the edge due to tool limitations and interference from pegs, necessitating some hand tool cleanup.
  3. Despite these challenges, the chamfer effectively concealed some mistakes and contributed to a cleaner, more polished look.
  4. The chamfering could have been accomplished with any sharp chisel, highlighting the importance of tool sharpness in woodworking.
  5. The speaker emphasizes the value of having a favorite hand tool that remains sharp throughout the project, reducing maintenance effort.
  6. After trimming the pegs, a jig with a 45-degree bit was used to restore the factory chamfer look, further polishing the table's edges.
  7. The speaker humorously notes a pronunciation debate with the UK audience over the word 'chamfer,' considering adding an audio track to accommodate different pronunciations.

Bow Tie Inlay

  1. The wood used for the horizontal surfaces of the table is solid, with only a few small cracks, which is acceptable for an outdoor table. The builder is prepared for some weathering and minor cracks but aims to prevent major splits.
  2. To address larger cracks, especially those at the ends of the slab, the builder uses a bow tie jig to stitch up these cracks. End cracks are more concerning as they are more likely to develop into bigger problems.
  3. Bow tie inlays are typically done by hand for a sharper look, but softwood inlays are more challenging due to their tendency to bend, requiring sharp tools and skill. A router jig is used for a perfect fit, making the process easier.
  4. The builder reflects on their woodworking journey, which began 7-8 years ago with epoxy tables. Initially perceived as easy, epoxy tables became a stepping stone to more complex projects like the current one.
  5. The builder's success with epoxy tables, which resonated with audiences, allowed them to improve and become known for these tables, eventually leading to more advanced woodworking projects.
  6. The builder mentions an epoxy table course they released, advising potential buyers to wait for a Black Friday sale for a better deal, emphasizing that this mention is not an advertisement.
  7. The builder expresses gratitude for their journey, acknowledging that not everyone appreciates epoxy tables, but they have enjoyed the process and hope others might follow a similar path.

Finish Process

  1. The finish used was recommended by friends at Shelter Institute, aiming for a natural look that weathers over time.
  2. The desired finish should not feel plasticky and is expected to turn gray naturally, avoiding a permanent look.
  3. The finish is not as durable as marine varnish but won't flake or chip over time, allowing for natural weathering.
  4. Three coats were applied, with the process involving wiping on the finish, letting it absorb, and wiping off excess.
  5. The finish requires a longer cure time, being dry to touch in a day or two but taking 3-4 weeks to fully cure.
  6. N3 Nano will be applied after the full cure period, which is not shown in the current video.

Delivery/Reveal

  1. The creator built a large timber-framed table with built-in benches, using traditional joinery techniques like mortise and tenon, and half-lap joints.
  2. Initially, the creator wanted to donate the table to a special location, researching top tourist attractions in Oregon, such as Spirit Mountain Casino and Woodburn outlet malls.
  3. Despite efforts, the creator faced rejection from various organizations, including Bend Parks and Recreation and Oregon State University, who did not want the table.
  4. The table is temporarily displayed at Goby Walnut, a supportive location, while the creator seeks a permanent home for it.
  5. The creator is open to suggestions for a public place to donate the table, regardless of potential weathering or vandalism.
  6. The video ends with a light-hearted comment about the shop shades looking creepy.