Replies

1. 
   ring | May 25, 2006 07:44am | #1

   Instinct tells me that 1/2" thick for these stretchers is OK, but just barely.  If the table spends most of its life loaded with old magazines, they will not stay straight forever.  If your considerations are cost, I really think it's negligible.  If you are looking for a thinner profile, maybe consider thinning only the outermost slats.

   DR

2. 
   JohnWW | May 25, 2006 05:35pm | #2

   Making the slats 1/2" thick won't cause any problems even if they are lightly loaded with magazines.  They will be a bit springier but they won't take a permanent set or sag under their own weight.

   This isn't to say that you won't have problems with individual boards that warp with gains or losses in moisture, an effect that becomes more likely as stock gets thinner. 

   The solution to this is to pick your stock carefully, it should be absolutely straight grained, and eliminate any slats that show a tendency to warp when they are rough milled to dimension and allowed to "relax" while stickered a week or two before final dimensioning.

   John White, Shop Manager, Fine Woodworking Magazine

3. 
   a_Furnitologist | May 25, 2006 05:51pm | #3

   NAH!!!!.......you don't have to worry about sag.

   What joint are you using to connect the slats to the stretchers????

   http://www.furnitology.com

    

1. 
   CWilson | May 25, 2006 07:00pm | #4

   I think I will use a simple mortise and tenon joint, unless there is a better suggestion that would make it quicker and more effective.