DIY Network

Note: The project table was "pub height" at 42" high. Adjust the post dimensions to make tables of different heights. To build a dining table, make two shorter pedestals and attach them to a rectangular top.

• Staircase posts are generally 48" long with one notched end. Use a miter saw or hand saw to cut the post to 40" (figure A), removing the notched end.

  Safety Alert: Always wear safety glasses and use caution when using a power saw, drill or any other power tool.

• If the shelving brackets have any attached hardware, remove it.

• Use a pocket hole jig and drill to create two evenly spaced holes in the shorter edge of each bracket (figure B). The pocket hole jig makes it possible to drill perfectly angled holes for a screw to go into the side of a piece of wood and come out on the end.

• Position one bracket so that it is centered on one side of the post and flush with the bottom of the post. Attach it to the post with 1-5/8" pocket hole screws (figure C). Use a carpenter's square to make sure the bracket is straight.

• Attach the other three brackets in the same way, one on each side of the post. Make sure to install the brackets flush with the bottom of the post, or the table will wobble.

• The table top will consist of a 24" round on top of an 18" round. To create the top, find and mark the center of the 18" pine round. Drill a hole at the center mark (figure D) and a second hole about 1-1/2" form the first. These are the pilot holes for screws to attach the round to the post; using two screws will keep the round from spinning.

• Center the 18" pine round on the 24" round and trace around the 18" round with a pencil.

• The top of the post should have a center mark. Use this mark to center the small round. Attach the small round to the post by installing a 2" screw through the center hole, and another screw through the second hole in the round (figure E).

• Drill four or five holes around the perimeter of the small round, about 1-1/2" from the edge, using a 3/16" bit (figure F).

• Place the large round on top of the small one and center it according to the traced marks.

• Connect the two rounds by running 1-5/8" screws up from the bottom of the small round into the larger round
  (figure G).

• Finish off the table with stain or paint and protect it with a few coats of shellac or polyurethane.

• Add some adjustable feet or felt pads to the bottom of the shelf bracket supports to prevent wobble and protect floors floors.