Build a Rustic Table: Legs and Finishing
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2-4 hours
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Beginner
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- 0-100
If you are working on a rustic table, one important step is attaching legs and finishing them properly. You can complete the assembly of your table for use in your rustic home or cabin design.
Finishing the legs is the easiest part of the process once you design the rustic coffee table and make all of the necessary cuts. This process involves making sure that the coffee table remains level after assembly and gives the legs a distinctive rustic look and feel.
Step 1 - Check the Level of Legs
Use a level to check the levelness of the legs for your table. Make any adjustments to the legs using a handsaw in order to make the rustic coffee table completely level.
Step 2 - Attach Trim to the Legs
The branches or twigs that you collected with the other materials in the first part of the rustic table build can be used as a decorative trim around the legs. This will provide an additional rustic look and should be in keeping with the design that you drew for the rustic coffee table.
Take the branches and attach them in various patterns to the legs using wood glue and small nails. Be sure not to have the pieces of twigs or branches that you use protrude too far off in order to prevent them from being broken off.
Step 3 - Apply Glaze to the Legs
As soon as you apply the trim features to the legs, it is time to glaze them. The glaze will provide a protective finish to the legs and to the table. This will add additional strength to your rustic coffee table and give it a shiny look as well. Go to a home improvement center to find a good wood glaze for indoor use. Be sure to also purchase a breathing mask so that you do not inhale any fumes as you apply the glaze finish.
Use a paintbrush to generously apply the glaze to the legs, top, and underside of the table. Make sure that you spread the glaze evenly throughout.
Step 4 - Allow Table to Dry
Allow the glaze some time to dry, about 24 hours or so. Test the glaze by touch to make sure that it has dried and is ready to use. Take a light grit sandpaper to remove any excess glaze and make the leg surfaces even and smooth. This will complete the process for building your rustic table and you should be able to enjoy this addition to your home.
