DIY Network

Cherry Sofa-Table -- Finishing Touches From "Wood Works" episode WWK-404

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The impressive figure of the cherry-wood, and the complementary curves of the apron and stretcher, reveal the thoughtful construction that went into this elegant table. The curved stretchers, made using bent-wood lamination, add visual interest as well as stability and strength. Figure A

With assembly complete, the final step in the sofa-table is the application of a hand-rubbed tung-oil finish.

Materials:

Tung-oil finish
Paint brushes
Rags
220-grit and 320-grit sandpaper
"0000" steel wool

Safety Alert: Always wear safety goggles or safety glasses when working with wood, power-tools, saws, drills, routers, etc.

Safety Alert: Always wear protective gloves when working with wood stains, solvents and other toxic solutions.

Steps:

• Before applying the wood finish, temporarily remove the tabletop from the base. This will facilitate even application of the finish.

• Careful scraping to remove excess glue, and sanding using extra-fine sandpaper will prepare the wood surface to create a silky, soft finish and help enhance the figure of the wood.

• Tung oil provides a rich, lustrous finish that accentuates the grain of the cherry wood. Apply it using a paintbrush (figure A) and rub it into the wood with soft cloth or a finish applicator.

• To achieve the ultimate finish, apply several coats. Between each coat, rub down the surface with some 0000-gauge steel wool. Repeat the process several times to achieve a durable and radiant finish.

If cherry is not to your liking, consider making this same table using maple or mahogany. The bent-lamination technique works well with most hardwoods.

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RESOURCES :

Fine Woodworking
A magazine devoted to high-quality craftsmanship in woodworking.
The Taunton Press Inc.
Website: www.taunton.com

The Small Wood Shop (The Best of Fine Woodworking)
Author: Helen Albert (Editor)
Publisher: Taunton Press
ISBN: 1561580619

Woodworking Techniques: Best Methods for Building Furniture from Fine Woodworking
Author: Editors of Fine Woodworking magazine
Publisher: Taunton Press
ISBN: 1561583456

Mastering Woodworking Machines (Fine Woodworking Book)
Author: Mark Duginske
Publisher: Taunton Press
ISBN: 0942391985

David Marks Website
David Marks, DIY's Wood Works host, is a master woodworker. For more information on cut sizes and project details, please contact him via his Website at www.djmarks.com