Replies

1. 
   JohnWW | Oct 13, 2006 08:39pm | #1

   When it comes to the design of a dining room table, or any piece of furniture, there isn't just one right way to make it. 

   Any of the three construction methods you mention would serve, but the torsion box and veneered MDF are technically challenging and will require tools that you wouldn't need for solid wood construction.  If you decide to make the table with either an MDF or torsion box core you should get some experience by making several smaller pieces using the same construction method first.  Mistakes when applying veneer or working to finish the edges of a factory veneered panel are almost impossible to repair and will likely force you to start the top all over again, so you will want to have experience with the technique before tackling a large table.

   Solid wood will require that you understand wood movement and design the table to accomodate the movement, but the actual construction will be simpler, less technically demanding, and far more forgiving of small errors.

   John White

   
   

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   Edited 10/13/2006 2:08 pm ET by JohnWW