Replies

1. 
   flairwoodworks | Mar 08, 2010 01:08am | #1

   I can't quite envision what you mean by side rails.  Are they about a foot off the ground like in a trestle table, or directly below the tabletop?

   How much will the table be moved?  If it wouldn't be moved much, you could just use dowels to ensure the top doesn't shift independently of the legs, as is done with workbenches.  The dowels would be glued into the legs, but left loose in the top - if you lift the top, the legs remain.

1. 
   gbarron1 | Mar 08, 2010 09:08am | #2

   they're directly below the table top, like an apron.  Dowels certainly seems easy.  What would I need to do to allow for expansion/contraction of the tabletop?

2. 
   sapwood | Mar 08, 2010 12:42pm | #3

   I think I would fasten the two half logs together by using a sub-top made of 1/2" plywood. This could be edge banded for appearances sake. Then cut slots into the plywood for screws that will attach the finished top. I wouldn't bother with any elaborate means of attaching the ply to the logs.... long screws would be my choice.

   A note of caution. Be sure to leave an air space between the log and the floor. Use plastic or wood glides to maintain this bit of separation. If the log has any residual moisture, direct contact with the floor will surely create a mold haven.

3. 
   flairwoodworks | Mar 08, 2010 08:10pm | #4

   I'm guessing your stumps are not dry.  Use one screw in the center, and a couple on either side but make sure you put the outside ones in slotted holes to allow for movement.

4. 
   sapwood | Mar 12, 2010 12:03pm | #5

   Well you could slot the screw holes for those fasteners also, but I think I simply wouldn't bother. So what if the stump develops a bit of a crack. It's a stump!