Replies

1. 
   CStanford_ | Mar 29, 2000 07:35pm | #1

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   Build the piece with a sub-top and cut screw slots in the sub-top oriented cross-grain (cut in the corners). Fasten the top to the sub-top in the corners with a #6 screw and washer. Four screws in the four corners (screwed UP from the subtop into the top; make sure the screws are not so long that they come through the top). You're done.

1. 
   terry_coleman | May 17, 2000 03:22am | #2

   *I had a similar problem attaching a solid top and could not use a false top or rails due to interior space requirments . I think I invented a new application for an existing device. I routed several key-hole slots with a 1/2in.(large one) bit(the kind you use to hang solid wall hangings on a nail) in line with the cabinet sides, I then installed #10 screws in the sides to match up with the slots . I then adjusted the hight or each screw with the help of a small piece of wood with a slot cut with the same router set up so each one was just snug in the slot. With all the slots cut and all the screws adjusted it is just a matter of making sure all the screw heads enter the big end of the slots and sliding it into place . Kind of like a series of small sliding tapered dovetails. Of course all the keyhole slots must be cut the same direction and you must allow for the final position at the end of the slot when you lay it out but you dont have to be exact with the lengthwise dimensions as you can slide the pieces after assembly to line up perfectly. It can be disassembled at any time and you can readjust the snugness of the fit if necessary. you can even make one end tighter if you want to controll which end moves. I have also used this technique to attach table tops where I didnt want any fastners to show underneath (like a sofa table with no rail) and to attach breadboard ends. (workes super for this). By the way does any body know the phone # of the patent office. :).Hope this helps somone else out of a jam the way it did me. T.C.

1. 
   William_Tuggle | May 17, 2000 04:40pm | #3

   *Terry,The Patent Office number is...This method is often used to attach moulding to case sides. But as so often happens it is not who originates the idea, but the who thinks of the latter applications. The better mouse trap thing. Ask Doctor Roberts up in North Georgia somewhere. Who, you ask, is Dr. Roberts? Why, of course, he designed and built the first personal computer. And all this time we thought it was Jobs or Gates. Is Dr. Roberts a zillionaire? Don't think so. Go for it Terry cause I've not even thought about using that method for table tops.