Replies

1. 
   john_c2 | Jan 15, 2021 10:02am | #1

   Do the Steve Latta table from the video workshop. All the information is there. It's similar to Shaker pieces you are familiar with. It's about as simple a Federal piece as you'll find, but it has elements of several new skills you'll need for Federal furniture.

2. 
   dcp | Jan 15, 2021 08:12pm | #2

   I have built two Federal Card Tables. I took a class with Mario Rodriguez for my first card table and built another in my own shop. While I loved those projects and learned a lot, I must agree John_C2 and recommend the Latta side table.

   The card table has several unique features, including bridle joints for the legs, bricklay (for the apron), and of course the veneer for the apron. There is much to learn and a good amount of details you can focus on. However, some of these things don’t directly transfer to other pieces.

   If you want to use this project to enhance your skill set, the Latta side table has more skills that will be more relevant for your subsequent projects. Mortise and tenons for the legs, tapering the legs, and perhaps most important, an inset dovetailed drawer with cockbeading. Plus you can practice banding.

   Best of luck with your next project. You can’t go wrong no matter what you choose!

3. 
   jake_w | Jan 16, 2021 08:39am | #3

   I'll throw in my two cents here. I have started adding some federal style details to some of my projects and I would also recommend starting with the smaller table. I did look though you Lumberjocks posts and you have most of the skills to build the table. The base construction of federal style furniture is similar to shaker furniture. Mostly square surfaces and not much carving or flowing curves. The style is really based on inlays, veneers, stringing, and applied moldings. If you want to build federal style furniture, focus on gaining these skills and you will be well on your way. It has been a rough learning curve for me at times. Different veneers behave differently and the adhesive can make a big difference. I have started adding stringing, veneer, and moldings to the drawers in my shop just for practice.

   As for banding, I have not made my own yet. I have purchased some just to add it to projects and it is a less expensive way to start. I have learned through trial and mostly error that a few thousands of an inch matter with veneering and building jigs to adjust for these differences is needed.

   Feel free to use cherry or any other wood. There are no "rules" to furniture styles, only ideas. It may not look like a period piece, but pulling federal details into other pieces of furniture can be very beautiful. Garrett Hack uses many federal style details in modern pieces and it works well.

   I don't think the table you want to build is out of your skill level, but it requires many new techniques. Start small, work on each skill individually, figure out your problems, and have fun.

4. 
   robd | Jan 16, 2021 09:17am | #4

   Thanks all - I am wrapping up my last chest of drawers for my younger son now, but will start with the small side table first.