DIY Network

Tile Tabletop and Finish From "Woodworking" episode DIW-201

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Johnson chose 6" x 6" tiles -- to fit the tabletop dimensions perfectly -- and thus avoided having to cut any down. When drilling holes for figure-8 supports, use the wood boring bit to drill halfway though outer edge. The figure-8 needs to extend past the edge of the table in order to properly support the tile top and frame. Both frame and plywood inset should be measured carefully for proper fit. Notches on the plywood help insure a good fit around the inner surface of legs. If done correctly, the plywood should simply drop into the frame and sit solidly atop the strips. Construction adhesive -- not wood glue -- is vital to successful bonding between the plywood and cement board. Cement board is a necessary material in this project -- tiles won't stick to the plywood. Cement board can be very heavy, so consider having a partner help you lift the board and set it in place before using screws to secure. It's important to choose mastic specifically made for the application of tiles. A little mastic should be applied to the back of each tile before setting it into place. After the grout is worked in between tiles, any excess can be removed with a wet sponge while the grout is still wet. Grout should dry thoroughly before the table is used.

The last two tasks -- the tile tabletop and finish -- will bring out the beauty of the wood and give the table a true arts and crafts look.

Note: Project plans may be viewed with

Materials:

Wood biscuits
Pencil
Wood glue
3/8" wooden pegs
Wood block
Hammer
Sandpaper
Stain
3/8" wood boring bit
Figure-8 fasteners
Small screws
Poplar strips
3/4" plywood
Construction adhesive
Cement board
Cement screws
6" x 6" tiles (total of 18)
Tile mastic
Tile grout
Sponge
Water
Small screws

1. Create a framework for the tile tabletop using biscuits (a butt joint could be used, but wouldn't provide enough strength). First, mark wood with pencil where biscuits will go, and use a biscuit jointer to cut notches into 4" x 4" frame piece, as well as the adjoining piece.

2. Apply glue both inside holes and on biscuit. Insert biscuits into all slots on one section and slide opposing piece onto biscuit. Remove excess glue. Use bar clamps to apply pressure for at least 4 hours.

3. Wooden pegs, in this case used only for decoration, can be added. Begin by drilling a shallow 3/8" hole about 1" from the edge and 1/2" deep. Add glue to holes and position 3/8" pegs.

4. Next, use a wood block to protect the wood as the pegs are hammered into the holes flush with the surrounding surface area.

   Sand entire table frame and use tack cloth to remove any residue and dust.

5. Then, following manufacturer's directions, stain all wood desired color -- keeping in mind that, traditionally, authentic arts and crafts furniture has a darker brown finish (Johnson uses rosewood stain for his project).

6. After stain has dried, use a 3/8" wood boring bit (sometimes called a spade, paddle or auger bit) to drill hole for figure-8 fastener.

7. Next, use screw to secure fastener. Repeat this method to secure fasteners all around outer edge of framework, spacing so that tile tabletop and frame will be equally supported on all sides.

8. Add a 1" x 1" strip of poplar to inside of frame to support 3/4" plywood base. Measure down from top and place so that both plywood support and cement board are inset from top surface, leaving room for the addition of tile.

9. Measure inside of frame and mark plywood. Be sure to mark area for notches around the legs. Cut plywood and place inside framework, resting the plywood on the poplar strip.

10. Next, apply construction adhesive to the plywood and place cement board on top.

11. Drill cement screws directly into the cement board to hold it in place.

12. Apply a generous amount of tile mastic directly to cement board and spread over entire surface. Work mastic into the cement board's surface.

13. Apply a thin layer of mastic to the back of each 6" x 6" tile and set each into place. Repeat for all tiles.

14. Mix grout to a creamy consistency and use rubber float to work the grout thoroughly between tiles.

15. Use wet sponge to remove excess grout and allow to dry.

16. Finally, use small screws to attach top to frame by securing the figure-8 fasteners up from the bottom.

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RESOURCES :
Arts and Crafts Woodworking Projects: 11 New Designs in the Stickley Tradition
Model: 0811726622
Author: Robert E. Belke

Arts and Crafts Furniture: Projects You Can Build for the Home
Model: 094193649X
Author: Blair Howard

Fine Woodworking
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Website: www.taunton.com