Replies

1. 
   user-148830 | Jan 18, 2007 09:09pm | #1

   Hi there,
   A reasonable thickness is whatever you think looks best for your design. It could be 3/4" or 1 1/4". It all depends on the look. As for strength, 3/4" will work fine if well supported. You may want to throw in a rail across the middle of the table for more support to the top and to help keep it flat. [My preference for a table top is 7/8"]

   As for the breadboard ends, they should be as long as your table is wide. But 1/8" to 1/4" longer is better as then there will be no sharp edges when the table top shrinks. There will always be an
   inset from bboard end to table. Good luck.
   Gary

1. 
   planesmooth | Jan 20, 2007 05:25am | #2

   Gary,

   Thanks for the answer.  I think I will start with 5/4 stock and end up with a 1" thick top.

    One thing that I probably didn't explain very well in my original question was the "length" of the breadboard.  By "length", I meant the dimension of the breadboard in the same direction as the length of the table.  For example, for a 6' long table, would it be okay for me to make the "body" of the table 5 feet long, with each of the breadboard 6" long (for a total of 5'+6"+6"=6')?

   Thanks again!

    

1. 
   user-148830 | Jan 20, 2007 06:02pm | #3

   Hey there,
   Yeah I thought it might be that direction you were talking about. Just remember that whenever someone lifts this table they will probably lift by the bboard ends. So making them wider doesn't make them stronger if their connection to the table top isn't great. 2" wide is just fine with a tongue and groove and a spring joint. Anything wider and I'd start considering adding some mortise and tenons or at the very least a screw with a slotted hole. Good luck. Gary

1. 
   planesmooth | Jan 21, 2007 06:07am | #4

   Gary

   Thanks for your help.  Now, off to the shop I go.