Coffee Table Final Report, P1

Inspiration:

Woodworking is an incredibly diverse craft that spans a wide range of styles, techniques, and traditions. Growing up, I was fortunate to be around my grandfather, who was an exceptional hobbyist carpenter. He primarily worked in a traditional or colonial style, crafting a variety of tables and structures with intricate grooves and detailed carvings. His work was precise, with a deep appreciation for classical designs that incorporated ornate features and structured details. While I admire the complexity and skill involved in this style, I find it a bit too intricate for my own woodworking aspirations. Because of this, I am drawn toward more modern styles that maintain simplicity while still embracing craftsmanship.

Aesthetic Evaluation:

Initially, I was stuck between 3 different aesthetics: Rustic, Amish, And Modern.

Rustic embodied natural beauty of the wood itself. This style often incorporates raw, unfinished edges, visible knots, and natural grain patterns. Rustic furniture is typically very heavy and durable. It is also often crafted from reclaimed wood or materials that enhance its rugged aesthetic. 

Amish on the other hand is defined by its solid wood construction, traditional joinery methods like dovetails and mortise-and-tenon. Unlike mass-produced furniture, Amish pieces are typically handcrafted with great attention to detail. One of the key characteristics of Amish-style woodworking is its use of high-quality hardwoods, such as oak, cherry, maple, and walnut. The designs are often simple yet elegant, with smooth lines and subtle detailing that highlight the natural beauty of the wood.

Finally, the modern aesthetic leans toward clean lines, minimalistic designs, and functional aesthetics. This style often features sleek surfaces, geometric shapes, and a combination of materials like metal, glass, or composite elements to enhance the look. Unlike traditional woodworking, modern pieces focus less on elaborate detailing and more on form and function.

As you may see, from an aesthetic side, this was a difficult choice. However, after evaluating what my skill are and the aesthetic my mother most liked (this is a Mother’s Day gift), I deceived to go with the modern look. Initially, I wanted to do a round table as seen below. However, due to later constraints found in post 2, I had to go a rectangular route.

Additionally, I wanted push myself a little by making the legs more interesting. The table in the second image has a more unique leg design, and for some reason, it really stands out to me. It adds a little complexity without making the whole thing look over the top. That said, I am deciding to stick with a simpler design due to the fact that there is only 2 weeks left, and I am behind schedule.

Despite all the different options, my overall goal was simple.

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

It has to look natural!

When looking at the constraints, the 4 that would and did come up were:

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+