Replies

1. 
   YesMaam27577 | Mar 03, 2009 07:54pm | #1

   If you don't have a tablesaw, you can still make that table. You'll probably want to learn how to make extremely straight cuts (long ones) with the equipment that you already have, if you don't already know.

   As for the pocket hole joinery, I'll make two comments.

   1. Yes, you can use pocket screws for some of the joints in that plan. Note that you will need to fill the pocket holes to get the same look.

   2. If this will indeed be a patio table, then you need to find pocket screws (or somilarly-configured screws) that won't rust or corrode.

   3. If you get too 'happy' about pocket screws, the finished table won't look like the one in the plan, and it might not hold up as well.

   (Having said that, I'll also say that pocket screws are a godsend, and an excellent way to learn more about woodworking. They enable you to build things without all that hi-falutin joinery. And they (eventually) teach you that all that hi-falutin joinery is well worth learning.

   Good luck, and post a picture when you're done!

   Politics is the antithesis of problem solving.
1. 
   Stan | Mar 03, 2009 08:39pm | #2

   Thank you so much for your insight into this.  Once I get the plans I will be able to determine better what the table saw is used for.  Right now it looks like it "may" only be used for the dado's.  If that is the case I can cut those with either my circular saw, router. or Bosch compound miter saw and chisel.

   If the pocket holes are on the bottom of the table they would not be seen.  But point well taken about being coached into learning other forms of joinery.

   Thanks again."Projects beget projects and projects beget the need to buy new tools and that is what the cycle of life is all about."

1. 
   YesMaam27577 | Mar 03, 2009 11:05pm | #3

   >>"Right now it looks like it "may" only be used for the dado's. "Maybe so, but that would depend on your ability to buy wood that is the proper dimension for each piece in the plan. Thickness of the vertical legs might be an issue (but might not), and width of any piece that will be edge-joined may be a learning experience.but again -- don't let that kill your desire to do some woodworking. It's a great hobby, that (hopefully) will create some family heirlooms along the way.

   Politics is the antithesis of problem solving.