Top 5 for building a coffee table

What are the top 5 things you want your project to look like, to feel like, to do?

1. Clean and Simple
I’m going for that modern aesthetic. This means I will have smooth surfaces, clean joinery, no extra stuff (patterns, designs, tapering)

2. Actually Functional
It has to work as a coffee table. It can’t be wobbly or fragile and must be strong enough for someone to put their feet up or even sit on if they have to.

3. Nice Materials
I want the wood to feel good and look good for my mother. Because of this, I choose to use cherry wood because it is still a nice quality wood while before more cost friendly

4. Made With Care
 Straight cuts, smooth surfaces, tight joints.

5. A Natural Stain

I want the wood to keep it nature tone, but also have a stain that brings out the woods unique striations.

What are the aspects that will tell you you’ve succeeded in your project? What are you prioritizing?

The list above will tell me if I succeeded in this project (If I am able to touch those goals above). For now, I will prioritize getting the table assembled and ensure it is structurally sound

Next, what are the top 5 constraints you face? Time, money, skills, supplies, ideas, room to work? Which ones will be the toughest to deal with?

1. Time
   I’ve got a full plate with classes and other projects, and finding consistent time to work on this is tricky.

2. My Skill Level
   I’m far from a good woodworker by any stretch. I’ve never done tapered legs or dowel joinery before, so there’s definitely going to be a learning curve.

3. Access to Tools
   I’ve got access to the shop, but it’s not always available when I need it.

4. Budget
   I was able to get the cherry wood for 150, but if I need more materials, joinery, stains, it may push me 300+

5. Not sure