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Table of Contents

Tips & Techniques4

Template Routing: Perfect Every Time6

Take your router to a new level. With a special bit and a simple template, you can hollow out almost any shape.

Oval Jewelry Box10

A graceful, oval shape, brass feet and swiveling lids make this an elegant place to keep beautiful jewelry.

Online Extras

JEWELRY BOX. For the jewelry box (page 10), I ordered the four brass feet (10147), as well as the Suede-Tex supplies from Rockler. You'll need a bag of fibers (73080) and a can of adhesive (73130). An inexpensive "mini-flocker" is also available (28035).

The main item you'll need when making make one (or all three) of the boxes featured in this issue is the special bowl and tray router bit. The bit that I used came from Whiteside Machine Co. (1376B). Other companies offer similar bits. Just be sure that the one you purchase has a bearing on the shank for template routing.

Secret-Compartment Box14

This classic-looking box features a laminated body of contrasting woods and two compartments -- one of them is a secret.

SECRET BOX. You can purchase the rare earth magnets (99K31.01), the magnet cups (99K32.51), and special washers (99K32.61) from Lee Valley. The paduak lumber can be ordered from Rockler.

The main item you'll need when making make one (or all three) of the boxes featured in this issue is the special bowl and tray router bit. The bit that I used came from Whiteside Machine Co. (1376B). Other companies offer similar bits. Just be sure that the one you purchase has a bearing on the shank for template routing.

Dresser-Top Valet16

A divided-tray top and a small drawer make this box the perfect place to keep your everyday items close at hand.

VALET BOX. All you need for the valet box on page 16 are two 5/8"-dia. brass knobs. Rockler carries this item (68627).

The main item you'll need when making make one (or all three) of the boxes featured in this issue is the special bowl and tray router bit. The bit that I used came from Whiteside Machine Co. (1376B). Other companies offer similar bits. Just be sure that the one you purchase has a bearing on the shank for template routing.

Shop Notes18

Traditional Knock-Down Table Base20

Learn the age-old secret to a strong, easy-to-build table base. You won't believe how quickly you can put together a great table.

  • Page 21: Figure 3, detail a
    The end of the miter is shown being cut 3/8" from the edge of the workpiece. Instead, the length of the angled miter section should measure 3/8" long.

Heirloom Tables22

Starting with one master technique, you can build three classic tables that look great in almost any room of the house.

Online Extras

  • Turned Leg Patterns
    I decided to purchase legs for this project, but you can certainly turn your own.
  • Drawer Option
    Adding a couple drawers to the oak dining table will make good use of some extra space. You'll have a convenient place to store placemats, linens or even serving utensils.
  • Finishing Your Heirloom Table
    Each of the three Heirloom Tables presents new challenges and different opportunities when it comes time to apply the finish.

You really won't need a lot of supplies to build any of the three tables from the article starting on page 22.

HANGER BOLTS.The 5/16" x 4" hanger bolts with nuts and washers are what hold it all together. If you can't find this size of hanger bolt locally, they can be ordered in packages of ten (HB- 3140) from McFeely's. This is where I also purchased the handy hanger bolt driver (HB-3199).

TURNED LEGS. I decided against turning my own legs. It was much easier to purchase them through Rockler. The legs are very good quality and the price is reasonable. (If you want to turn your own legs, check out Woodsmith Online Extras for details.) You'll need 31/2"-dia. oak legs (65943) to build the dining table, 31/2"-dia. pine legs (65951) for the kitchen table, and I used 23/4"-dia. maple legs (65967) for the smaller sofa table.

TABLETOP FASTENERS. Each table requires a handful of tabletop fasteners (34215) available from Rockler.

KNOB. You could likely find a wood knob for the drawer locally. If you can't, give Rockler a try.

Antique Pine Finish32

Want your pine project to have that warm, aged-pine color? It's not hard to do -- we'll show you how.

I purchased all of the finishing supplies that I needed locally. Amber shellac and de-natured alcohol are fairly common items and can be found at many paint, hardware, or home improvement stores.

The pre-stain conditioner that I use is made by Minwax. It's a pretty common brand, but others are available. I've had good luck with Bartley Gel Stain. And Minwax makes a good gel stain as well.

One-Bit Locking Rabbet34

With one router bit and a simple setup, you can make building a strong drawer a whole lot easier.

Final Details36