Hi, folks.
I am wanting to build a 4 x 8' worktable/layout table or whatever it may be
called. I would like to use a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood for the top and four 4
x 4s for the legs.
Sounds simple but I would like to see what others have done.
I don't have a dovetail jig or a biscuit joiner - yet.
Could someone direct me to sources for plans?
Thanks
j/b
On Mar 14, 4:22 pm, "justme" <[email protected]> wrote:
> Hi, folks.
>
> I am wanting to build a 4 x 8' worktable/layout table or whatever it may be
> called. I would like to use a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood for the top and four 4
> x 4s for the legs.
>
> Sounds simple but I would like to see what others have done.
Consider getting a solid core door for the top rather than plywood.
Also consider doubling 2x4s instead of 4x4s for the posts, they will
be more stable. There's a ton of plans out there for benches.
-Kevin
I forgot to say that the table will be for general use, such as putting a
Delta planer on top, a small metal slip roll and give me a place to build
and assemble various projects.
j/g
"justme" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
> Hi, folks.
>
> I am wanting to build a 4 x 8' worktable/layout table or whatever it may
> be called. I would like to use a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood for the top and
> four 4 x 4s for the legs.
>
> Sounds simple but I would like to see what others have done.
>
> I don't have a dovetail jig or a biscuit joiner - yet.
>
> Could someone direct me to sources for plans?
>
> Thanks
>
>
> j/b
>
>
Thanks, Kevin.
I will use your suggestion of (2) 2 x 4s.
I want a 4 x 8 foot top, still.
Yes, in fact, there are way too many plans. I just thought that someone
knew of a few tried-and-true, most desireable plans.
j/b
<[email protected]> wrote in message
news:10bf4f2f-86cf-4677-a3f3-95d8202a14f9@s20g2000yqh.googlegroups.com...
> On Mar 14, 4:22 pm, "justme" <[email protected]> wrote:
>> Hi, folks.
>>
>> I am wanting to build a 4 x 8' worktable/layout table or whatever it may
>> be
>> called. I would like to use a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood for the top and
>> four 4
>> x 4s for the legs.
>>
>> Sounds simple but I would like to see what others have done.
>
> Consider getting a solid core door for the top rather than plywood.
> Also consider doubling 2x4s instead of 4x4s for the posts, they will
> be more stable. There's a ton of plans out there for benches.
>
> -Kevin
Thanks, Luigi,
I want a proper bench/table, too. I still want a plywood top, however.
I appreciate your suggestions.
j/b
<[email protected]> wrote in message
news:7cc792d3-d4c8-40a1-a218-5d8ff1821d1c@b38g2000prf.googlegroups.com...
On Mar 14, 1:22 pm, "justme" <[email protected]> wrote:
> Hi, folks.
>
> I am wanting to build a 4 x 8' worktable/layout table or whatever it may
> be
> called. I would like to use a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood for the top and four
> 4
> x 4s for the legs.
>
> Sounds simple but I would like to see what others have done.
>
> I don't have a dovetail jig or a biscuit joiner - yet.
Get 48 feet of 1X6 in 8-foot lengths also. Cut two of the 6 lengths at
46-1/2" (you get four pieces). Nail (or screw) two 46-1/2" 1X6 to two
4X4's, one at the top of the leg and the other maybe one foot from the
bottom. Repeat for the other two legs. These are your end leg
assemblies. Then nail the 8' long pieces to the two end leg
assemblies. Nail the plywood to the frame. If you want, you could also
put a cross-piece in the middle top.
Bingo, no plans needed. I had a table like that for a number of years
and it was quite useful until I built a proper bench.
Luigi
Okay, Pat. Nothing is free, is it?
I revere Norm, though.
Thanks
j/b
"Pat Barber" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
> Go here and make a few notes on the construction:
>
> http://www.newyankee.com/getproduct.php?0207
>
> All you need is a saw,drill,tape measure and some screws.
>
> The size can be almost anything you wish.
>
> justme wrote:
>> Hi, folks.
>>
>> I am wanting to build a 4 x 8' worktable/layout table or whatever it may
>> be called. I would like to use a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood for the top and
>> four 4 x 4s for the legs.
>>
>> Sounds simple but I would like to see what others have done.
>>
>> I don't have a dovetail jig or a biscuit joiner - yet.
>>
>> Could someone direct me to sources for plans?
>>
>> Thanks
>>
>>
>> j/b
>>
Thanks. Coincidentally, I had come across this plan through Google. I may
use the top and stringers but definitely not the legs. I need beefy legs.
I am not sure about the caster mechanism. I would rather have locking
casters but they are expensive.
Nevrtheless, I like the plans.
j/b
"SonomaProducts.com" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:601b9e10-ef16-45a1-9e6e-7a110077e576@y33g2000prg.googlegroups.com...
Here is a complete plan for the portable table with drop down wheels
much like the NYW version but free plans.
http://woodworking.about.com/od/shopequipmentsupplies/ss/portableTable.htm
Keep in mind while 4' x 8' top is a nice natural size, many folks find
something a little smaller, at least in the 4' dimension is actually
more convenient to be able to reach across and work with. Also, build
it with 2 top sheets, one sacrifical that can be replaced over the
years as it gets scarred up (plan height correctly). Also consider
melamine or phenolic or laminate top to avoid glue stick down
problems. (anybody have a preference here?)
Also, take note of the step to build a torsion box or strong
underpinning for the top so you can keep it close to dead flat for
precise layouts, buildups, etc. Having those straight edges and flat
surface make for square building real easy.
On Mar 14, 1:22 pm, "justme" <[email protected]> wrote:
> Hi, folks.
>
> I am wanting to build a 4 x 8' worktable/layout table or whatever it may
> be
> called. I would like to use a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood for the top and four
> 4
> x 4s for the legs.
>
> Sounds simple but I would like to see what others have done.
>
> I don't have a dovetail jig or a biscuit joiner - yet.
>
> Could someone direct me to sources for plans?
>
> Thanks
>
> j/b
I had not considered shimmy from a locking caster. You have convinced me to
use drop-down casters.
Some suggested that I use 2- 2x4s for each leg, of which I will do, too.
Thanks for your help.
j/b
"SonomaProducts.com" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
I have worked on many tables of similar design and feel these legs are
as strong as any 4x4 but a 4x4 is also fine. The caster mechanism
seems a little flaky when you look at it but it is actually really
cool because when they are up the table stands on the legs alone no
shimey form a locking caster and you simply lift the end of the table
a few inches and the casters fall in place an lock.
On Mar 16, 7:35 pm, "justme" <[email protected]> wrote:
> Thanks. Coincidentally, I had come across this plan through Google. I may
> use the top and stringers but definitely not the legs. I need beefy legs.
> I am not sure about the caster mechanism. I would rather have locking
> casters but they are expensive.
> Nevrtheless, I like the plans.
>
> j/b
>
> "SonomaProducts.com" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>
> news:601b9e10-ef16-45a1-9e6e-7a110077e576@y33g2000prg.googlegroups.com...
> Here is a complete plan for the portable table with drop down wheels
> much like the NYW version but free plans.
>
> http://woodworking.about.com/od/shopequipmentsupplies/ss/portableTabl...
>
> Keep in mind while 4' x 8' top is a nice natural size, many folks find
> something a little smaller, at least in the 4' dimension is actually
> more convenient to be able to reach across and work with. Also, build
> it with 2 top sheets, one sacrifical that can be replaced over the
> years as it gets scarred up (plan height correctly). Also consider
> melamine or phenolic or laminate top to avoid glue stick down
> problems. (anybody have a preference here?)
>
> Also, take note of the step to build a torsion box or strong
> underpinning for the top so you can keep it close to dead flat for
> precise layouts, buildups, etc. Having those straight edges and flat
> surface make for square building real easy.
>
> On Mar 14, 1:22 pm, "justme" <[email protected]> wrote:
>
>
>
> > Hi, folks.
>
> > I am wanting to build a 4 x 8' worktable/layout table or whatever it may
> > be
> > called. I would like to use a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood for the top and
> > four
> > 4
> > x 4s for the legs.
>
> > Sounds simple but I would like to see what others have done.
>
> > I don't have a dovetail jig or a biscuit joiner - yet.
>
> > Could someone direct me to sources for plans?
>
> > Thanks
>
> > j/b- Hide quoted text -
>
> - Show quoted text -
Lew, I think that I will bolt the 2 x 4s and I am thinking that will be
enough?
Thank you,
j/b
"Lew Hodgett" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
>
> "justme" wrote:
>
>> Some suggested that I use 2- 2x4s for each leg, of which I will do, too.
>
> Cut a rabbit in each 2x4 so that when 2x4's are assembled, you have an
> interlocking joint at the corner of the leg if you want to increase the
> strength of the leg.
>
> Lew
>
>
> BTW, using 1/2 ply for gusset plates to attach legs improves the strength
> of the top/leg joint tremendously.
>
> Lew
>
>
>
>
>
You've sold me, Larry.
I appreciate your ideas.
j/b
"Larry C" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:dLSvl.666$6%[email protected]...
>
> "SonomaProducts.com" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> news:[email protected]...
> I have worked on many tables of similar design and feel these legs are
> as strong as any 4x4 but a 4x4 is also fine. The caster mechanism
> seems a little flaky when you look at it but it is actually really
> cool because when they are up the table stands on the legs alone no
> shimey form a locking caster and you simply lift the end of the table
> a few inches and the casters fall in place an lock.
>
> On Mar 16, 7:35 pm, "justme" <[email protected]> wrote:
>> Thanks. Coincidentally, I had come across this plan through Google. I may
>> use the top and stringers but definitely not the legs. I need beefy legs.
>> I am not sure about the caster mechanism. I would rather have locking
>> casters but they are expensive.
>> Nevrtheless, I like the plans.
>>
>> j/b
>>
>> "SonomaProducts.com" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>>
>> news:601b9e10-ef16-45a1-9e6e-7a110077e576@y33g2000prg.googlegroups.com...
>> Here is a complete plan for the portable table with drop down wheels
>> much like the NYW version but free plans.
>>
>> http://woodworking.about.com/od/shopequipmentsupplies/ss/portableTabl...
>>
>> Keep in mind while 4' x 8' top is a nice natural size, many folks find
>> something a little smaller, at least in the 4' dimension is actually
>> more convenient to be able to reach across and work with. Also, build
>> it with 2 top sheets, one sacrifical that can be replaced over the
>> years as it gets scarred up (plan height correctly). Also consider
>> melamine or phenolic or laminate top to avoid glue stick down
>> problems. (anybody have a preference here?)
>>
>> Also, take note of the step to build a torsion box or strong
>> underpinning for the top so you can keep it close to dead flat for
>> precise layouts, buildups, etc. Having those straight edges and flat
>> surface make for square building real easy.
>>
>> On Mar 14, 1:22 pm, "justme" <[email protected]> wrote:
>>
>>
>>
>> > Hi, folks.
>>
>> > I am wanting to build a 4 x 8' worktable/layout table or whatever it
>> > may
>> > be
>> > called. I would like to use a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood for the top and
>> > four
>> > 4
>> > x 4s for the legs.
>>
>> > Sounds simple but I would like to see what others have done.
>>
>> > I don't have a dovetail jig or a biscuit joiner - yet.
>>
>> > Could someone direct me to sources for plans?
>>
>> > Thanks
>>
>> > j/b- Hide quoted text -
>>
>> - Show quoted text -
>
> I built the table with the setup like in the NYW plans. In a word it is
> the NUTS. I have a few friends who have tables with locking casters and
> the table moves a bit. My table is on solid ground and does not move at
> all when planing, sawing, sanding, etc. When I want it out of the way I
> just pick up the side a few inches and the wheels drop down.
>
> Larry C
>
Hey, Pat.
I will make it with a lower shelf. However, sometimes, I may have to move
it outside and I want BEEF.
Thanks
j/b
"Pat Barber" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
>I also built the NYW version using plywood.
>
> It is quick,easy and fairly cheap.
>
> It is also VERY strong and very stable.
>
> I think that using 2x4's would make it
> overly heavy and not any better.
>
> I did add a lower shelf which is very
> handy and makes the table even more
> stable.
>
> If I made another, I would add a few
> drawers instead of a open shelf.
I never thought of that excellent idea, Larry.
Thanks
j/b
"Larry C" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
>
> "justme" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> news:[email protected]...
>> You've sold me, Larry.
>>
>> I appreciate your ideas.
>>
>> j/b
>>
>>
>> "Larry C" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>> news:dLSvl.666$6%[email protected]...
>>>
>>> "SonomaProducts.com" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>>> news:[email protected]...
>>> I have worked on many tables of similar design and feel these legs are
>>> as strong as any 4x4 but a 4x4 is also fine. The caster mechanism
>>> seems a little flaky when you look at it but it is actually really
>>> cool because when they are up the table stands on the legs alone no
>>> shimey form a locking caster and you simply lift the end of the table
>>> a few inches and the casters fall in place an lock.
>>>
>>> On Mar 16, 7:35 pm, "justme" <[email protected]> wrote:
>>>> Thanks. Coincidentally, I had come across this plan through Google. I
>>>> may
>>>> use the top and stringers but definitely not the legs. I need beefy
>>>> legs.
>>>> I am not sure about the caster mechanism. I would rather have locking
>>>> casters but they are expensive.
>>>> Nevrtheless, I like the plans.
>>>>
>>>> j/b
>>>>
>>>> "SonomaProducts.com" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>>>>
>>>> news:601b9e10-ef16-45a1-9e6e-7a110077e576@y33g2000prg.googlegroups.com...
>>>> Here is a complete plan for the portable table with drop down wheels
>>>> much like the NYW version but free plans.
>>>>
>>>> http://woodworking.about.com/od/shopequipmentsupplies/ss/portableTabl...
>>>>
>>>> Keep in mind while 4' x 8' top is a nice natural size, many folks find
>>>> something a little smaller, at least in the 4' dimension is actually
>>>> more convenient to be able to reach across and work with. Also, build
>>>> it with 2 top sheets, one sacrifical that can be replaced over the
>>>> years as it gets scarred up (plan height correctly). Also consider
>>>> melamine or phenolic or laminate top to avoid glue stick down
>>>> problems. (anybody have a preference here?)
>>>>
>>>> Also, take note of the step to build a torsion box or strong
>>>> underpinning for the top so you can keep it close to dead flat for
>>>> precise layouts, buildups, etc. Having those straight edges and flat
>>>> surface make for square building real easy.
>>>>
>>>> On Mar 14, 1:22 pm, "justme" <[email protected]> wrote:
>>>>
>>>>
>>>>
>>>> > Hi, folks.
>>>>
>>>> > I am wanting to build a 4 x 8' worktable/layout table or whatever it
>>>> > may
>>>> > be
>>>> > called. I would like to use a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood for the top and
>>>> > four
>>>> > 4
>>>> > x 4s for the legs.
>>>>
>>>> > Sounds simple but I would like to see what others have done.
>>>>
>>>> > I don't have a dovetail jig or a biscuit joiner - yet.
>>>>
>>>> > Could someone direct me to sources for plans?
>>>>
>>>> > Thanks
>>>>
>>>> > j/b- Hide quoted text -
>>>>
>>>> - Show quoted text -
>>>
>>> I built the table with the setup like in the NYW plans. In a word it is
>>> the NUTS. I have a few friends who have tables with locking casters and
>>> the table moves a bit. My table is on solid ground and does not move at
>>> all when planing, sawing, sanding, etc. When I want it out of the way I
>>> just pick up the side a few inches and the wheels drop down.
>>>
>>> Larry C
>>>
>>
>>
>
> One more thing. I learned a while ago to try and make all of my tables,
> benches, etc for the shop the same height as my table saw, jointer, etc.
> That way they can double as an outfeed, infeed, comfortable cup holder,
> etc.
>
>
Here is a complete plan for the portable table with drop down wheels
much like the NYW version but free plans.
http://woodworking.about.com/od/shopequipmentsupplies/ss/portableTable.htm
Keep in mind while 4' x 8' top is a nice natural size, many folks find
something a little smaller, at least in the 4' dimension is actually
more convenient to be able to reach across and work with. Also, build
it with 2 top sheets, one sacrifical that can be replaced over the
years as it gets scarred up (plan height correctly). Also consider
melamine or phenolic or laminate top to avoid glue stick down
problems. (anybody have a preference here?)
Also, take note of the step to build a torsion box or strong
underpinning for the top so you can keep it close to dead flat for
precise layouts, buildups, etc. Having those straight edges and flat
surface make for square building real easy.
On Mar 14, 1:22=A0pm, "justme" <[email protected]> wrote:
> Hi, folks.
>
> I am wanting to build a 4 x 8' worktable/layout table or whatever it may =
be
> called. =A0I would like to use a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood for the top and f=
our 4
> x 4s for the legs.
>
> Sounds simple but I would like to see what others have done.
>
> I don't have a dovetail jig or a biscuit joiner - yet.
>
> Could someone direct me to sources for plans?
>
> Thanks
>
> j/b
On Mar 14, 1:22=A0pm, "justme" <[email protected]> wrote:
> Hi, folks.
>
> I am wanting to build a 4 x 8' worktable/layout table or whatever it may =
be
> called. =A0I would like to use a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood for the top and f=
our 4
> x 4s for the legs.
>
> Sounds simple but I would like to see what others have done.
>
> I don't have a dovetail jig or a biscuit joiner - yet.
Get 48 feet of 1X6 in 8-foot lengths also. Cut two of the 6 lengths at
46-1/2" (you get four pieces). Nail (or screw) two 46-1/2" 1X6 to two
4X4's, one at the top of the leg and the other maybe one foot from the
bottom. Repeat for the other two legs. These are your end leg
assemblies. Then nail the 8' long pieces to the two end leg
assemblies. Nail the plywood to the frame. If you want, you could also
put a cross-piece in the middle top.
Bingo, no plans needed. I had a table like that for a number of years
and it was quite useful until I built a proper bench.
Luigi
I have worked on many tables of similar design and feel these legs are
as strong as any 4x4 but a 4x4 is also fine. The caster mechanism
seems a little flaky when you look at it but it is actually really
cool because when they are up the table stands on the legs alone no
shimey form a locking caster and you simply lift the end of the table
a few inches and the casters fall in place an lock.
On Mar 16, 7:35=A0pm, "justme" <[email protected]> wrote:
> Thanks. =A0Coincidentally, I had come across this plan through Google. =
=A0I may
> use the top and stringers but definitely not the legs. =A0I need beefy le=
gs.
> I am not sure about the caster mechanism. =A0I would rather have locking
> casters but they are expensive.
> Nevrtheless, I like the plans.
>
> j/b
>
> "SonomaProducts.com" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>
> news:601b9e10-ef16-45a1-9e6e-7a110077e576@y33g2000prg.googlegroups.com...
> Here is a complete plan for the portable table with drop down wheels
> much like the NYW version but free plans.
>
> http://woodworking.about.com/od/shopequipmentsupplies/ss/portableTabl...
>
> Keep in mind while 4' x 8' top is a nice natural size, many folks find
> something a little smaller, at least in the 4' dimension is actually
> more convenient to be able to reach across and work with. Also, build
> it with 2 top sheets, one sacrifical that can be replaced over the
> years as it gets scarred up (plan height correctly). Also consider
> melamine or phenolic or laminate top to avoid glue stick down
> problems. (anybody have a preference here?)
>
> Also, take note of the step to build a torsion box or strong
> underpinning for the top so you can keep it close to dead flat for
> precise layouts, buildups, etc. Having those straight edges and flat
> surface make for square building real easy.
>
> On Mar 14, 1:22 pm, "justme" <[email protected]> wrote:
>
>
>
> > Hi, folks.
>
> > I am wanting to build a 4 x 8' worktable/layout table or whatever it ma=
y
> > be
> > called. I would like to use a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood for the top and fo=
ur
> > 4
> > x 4s for the legs.
>
> > Sounds simple but I would like to see what others have done.
>
> > I don't have a dovetail jig or a biscuit joiner - yet.
>
> > Could someone direct me to sources for plans?
>
> > Thanks
>
> > j/b- Hide quoted text -
>
> - Show quoted text -
"justme" wrote:
> Some suggested that I use 2- 2x4s for each leg, of which I will do,
> too.
Cut a rabbit in each 2x4 so that when 2x4's are assembled, you have an
interlocking joint at the corner of the leg if you want to increase
the strength of the leg.
Lew
BTW, using 1/2 ply for gusset plates to attach legs improves the
strength of the top/leg joint tremendously.
Lew
"SonomaProducts.com" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
I have worked on many tables of similar design and feel these legs are
as strong as any 4x4 but a 4x4 is also fine. The caster mechanism
seems a little flaky when you look at it but it is actually really
cool because when they are up the table stands on the legs alone no
shimey form a locking caster and you simply lift the end of the table
a few inches and the casters fall in place an lock.
On Mar 16, 7:35 pm, "justme" <[email protected]> wrote:
> Thanks. Coincidentally, I had come across this plan through Google. I may
> use the top and stringers but definitely not the legs. I need beefy legs.
> I am not sure about the caster mechanism. I would rather have locking
> casters but they are expensive.
> Nevrtheless, I like the plans.
>
> j/b
>
> "SonomaProducts.com" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>
> news:601b9e10-ef16-45a1-9e6e-7a110077e576@y33g2000prg.googlegroups.com...
> Here is a complete plan for the portable table with drop down wheels
> much like the NYW version but free plans.
>
> http://woodworking.about.com/od/shopequipmentsupplies/ss/portableTabl...
>
> Keep in mind while 4' x 8' top is a nice natural size, many folks find
> something a little smaller, at least in the 4' dimension is actually
> more convenient to be able to reach across and work with. Also, build
> it with 2 top sheets, one sacrifical that can be replaced over the
> years as it gets scarred up (plan height correctly). Also consider
> melamine or phenolic or laminate top to avoid glue stick down
> problems. (anybody have a preference here?)
>
> Also, take note of the step to build a torsion box or strong
> underpinning for the top so you can keep it close to dead flat for
> precise layouts, buildups, etc. Having those straight edges and flat
> surface make for square building real easy.
>
> On Mar 14, 1:22 pm, "justme" <[email protected]> wrote:
>
>
>
> > Hi, folks.
>
> > I am wanting to build a 4 x 8' worktable/layout table or whatever it may
> > be
> > called. I would like to use a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood for the top and
> > four
> > 4
> > x 4s for the legs.
>
> > Sounds simple but I would like to see what others have done.
>
> > I don't have a dovetail jig or a biscuit joiner - yet.
>
> > Could someone direct me to sources for plans?
>
> > Thanks
>
> > j/b- Hide quoted text -
>
> - Show quoted text -
I built the table with the setup like in the NYW plans. In a word it is the
NUTS. I have a few friends who have tables with locking casters and the
table moves a bit. My table is on solid ground and does not move at all
when planing, sawing, sanding, etc. When I want it out of the way I just
pick up the side a few inches and the wheels drop down.
Larry C
Try these links on fer size:
http://atlanta.craigslist.org/mat/1134941931.html
http://www.southwestmedical.com/Therapy_Products/Work_Tables/Economy_Hi-Low_Work_Table_-_Manual/22259p0
http://www.hgtv.ca/articles/articledetails.aspx?ContentId=839&cat=2&by=5
http://www.eaa72.org/tech/Table/Table.htm
http://www.uniqueprojects.com/projects/other/worktable/worktable.htm
That should get you starter huh?
Philski
"justme" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
> Hi, folks.
>
> I am wanting to build a 4 x 8' worktable/layout table or whatever it may
> be called. I would like to use a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood for the top and
> four 4 x 4s for the legs.
>
> Sounds simple but I would like to see what others have done.
>
> I don't have a dovetail jig or a biscuit joiner - yet.
>
> Could someone direct me to sources for plans?
>
> Thanks
>
>
> j/b
>
>
I also built the NYW version using plywood.
It is quick,easy and fairly cheap.
It is also VERY strong and very stable.
I think that using 2x4's would make it
overly heavy and not any better.
I did add a lower shelf which is very
handy and makes the table even more
stable.
If I made another, I would add a few
drawers instead of a open shelf.
"justme" <[email protected]> wrote in message
news:[email protected]...
> You've sold me, Larry.
>
> I appreciate your ideas.
>
> j/b
>
>
> "Larry C" <[email protected]> wrote in message
> news:dLSvl.666$6%[email protected]...
>>
>> "SonomaProducts.com" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>> news:[email protected]...
>> I have worked on many tables of similar design and feel these legs are
>> as strong as any 4x4 but a 4x4 is also fine. The caster mechanism
>> seems a little flaky when you look at it but it is actually really
>> cool because when they are up the table stands on the legs alone no
>> shimey form a locking caster and you simply lift the end of the table
>> a few inches and the casters fall in place an lock.
>>
>> On Mar 16, 7:35 pm, "justme" <[email protected]> wrote:
>>> Thanks. Coincidentally, I had come across this plan through Google. I
>>> may
>>> use the top and stringers but definitely not the legs. I need beefy
>>> legs.
>>> I am not sure about the caster mechanism. I would rather have locking
>>> casters but they are expensive.
>>> Nevrtheless, I like the plans.
>>>
>>> j/b
>>>
>>> "SonomaProducts.com" <[email protected]> wrote in message
>>>
>>> news:601b9e10-ef16-45a1-9e6e-7a110077e576@y33g2000prg.googlegroups.com...
>>> Here is a complete plan for the portable table with drop down wheels
>>> much like the NYW version but free plans.
>>>
>>> http://woodworking.about.com/od/shopequipmentsupplies/ss/portableTabl...
>>>
>>> Keep in mind while 4' x 8' top is a nice natural size, many folks find
>>> something a little smaller, at least in the 4' dimension is actually
>>> more convenient to be able to reach across and work with. Also, build
>>> it with 2 top sheets, one sacrifical that can be replaced over the
>>> years as it gets scarred up (plan height correctly). Also consider
>>> melamine or phenolic or laminate top to avoid glue stick down
>>> problems. (anybody have a preference here?)
>>>
>>> Also, take note of the step to build a torsion box or strong
>>> underpinning for the top so you can keep it close to dead flat for
>>> precise layouts, buildups, etc. Having those straight edges and flat
>>> surface make for square building real easy.
>>>
>>> On Mar 14, 1:22 pm, "justme" <[email protected]> wrote:
>>>
>>>
>>>
>>> > Hi, folks.
>>>
>>> > I am wanting to build a 4 x 8' worktable/layout table or whatever it
>>> > may
>>> > be
>>> > called. I would like to use a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood for the top and
>>> > four
>>> > 4
>>> > x 4s for the legs.
>>>
>>> > Sounds simple but I would like to see what others have done.
>>>
>>> > I don't have a dovetail jig or a biscuit joiner - yet.
>>>
>>> > Could someone direct me to sources for plans?
>>>
>>> > Thanks
>>>
>>> > j/b- Hide quoted text -
>>>
>>> - Show quoted text -
>>
>> I built the table with the setup like in the NYW plans. In a word it is
>> the NUTS. I have a few friends who have tables with locking casters and
>> the table moves a bit. My table is on solid ground and does not move at
>> all when planing, sawing, sanding, etc. When I want it out of the way I
>> just pick up the side a few inches and the wheels drop down.
>>
>> Larry C
>>
>
>
One more thing. I learned a while ago to try and make all of my tables,
benches, etc for the shop the same height as my table saw, jointer, etc.
That way they can double as an outfeed, infeed, comfortable cup holder, etc.
Go here and make a few notes on the construction:
http://www.newyankee.com/getproduct.php?0207
All you need is a saw,drill,tape measure and some screws.
The size can be almost anything you wish.
justme wrote:
> Hi, folks.
>
> I am wanting to build a 4 x 8' worktable/layout table or whatever it may be
> called. I would like to use a 4 x 8 sheet of plywood for the top and four 4
> x 4s for the legs.
>
> Sounds simple but I would like to see what others have done.
>
> I don't have a dovetail jig or a biscuit joiner - yet.
>
> Could someone direct me to sources for plans?
>
> Thanks
>
>
> j/b
>
>