I started to dabble in woodworking last year. We replaced our deck with a new covered deck and my wife wanted new furniture. One of them was a bar height table. She looked online and sent me some of them. Holly cow were they expensive! So I told her that I would build one, but needed to buy a bunch of new tools to do it. Amazingly she said yes, so I ordered a bunch of new toys. Here's the table I came up with. She loves it which is all that really matters. Started with a sketch and then used SketchUp software to get a better idea of the dimensions and look.
I did this table without a workbench which taught me an important lesson. You're first project should be a workbench! 😂 Well, I'm hardheaded and completed it without one. I use the same Timber Tech boards that the new deck is made from as the top of the table. Took the opportunity to learn how to do half lap joints and also hid all the fasteners. I used hickory for the frame.
Next project was a proper workbench. I over build everything and this workbench is no exception. The table saw shelf is adjustable in case I get a different one. I also plan to make the miter saw sit on a shelf that rotates out of way. I built the workbench with this in mind, so I just need to do some cutting to make it happen. It also has removable casters so I can move it around because it weights a ton. I need to grab some better pictures.
I just finished these corn hole boards up yesterday. Used 3/4 inch oak plywood for the top and framed it with 1 inch solid oak boards. Used this project to learn box joints. These things are very heavy (which is what I wanted to prevent bounce) so I added leather handles. I like the way they turned out. We'll put them to use on July 4th.
@J4yDubs Everything looks great. But I'm a corn hole man. That looks awesome. Our annual family tournament is on Saturday. You got yours just in time.
@J4yDubs you have got some talent. The table and boards are beautiful!
@Craic'n Crabs Thanks. I did a couple test throws today and they play very nicely. Good control and no bounce. My other set (store bought) are very slick and have bounce. We'll be using them a lot this Saturday.
The US market is flooded with chinese junk, so you have to build it yourself if you want it to last. Good job.
@SassyGirl Thanks. I'm still learning and just taking my time. Next project will be a table to go below the wall mounted TV that will have cabinets for storage. Haven't started that one yet.
@Greg Thanks and I agree. I didn't track the costs, but I'm pretty sure that the table, even with buying the tools, was cheaper than the ones my wife was looking at. I also enjoy doing it which is a bonus.
@J4yDubs Amazing job. Nothing like doing something like that with your own hands. I can tell what pride you took to build those pieces for you and your family to enjoy for many years 👏
@J4yDubs I am planning out a simple laundry room. One... ONE... cabinet custom made is over $400. A new 10" table saw is less than $350. Since I need 5 cabinets, it's a no brainer. And it will not be made out of particle board.
@Greg Exactly my logic as well. And you'll have the tools to use for other projects so even more savings. I haven't tried cabinets yet and I hear that they can be a challenge, but that makes it even more rewarding.