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These fun mini tables have tops like an oversize jigsaw puzzle that can be arranged as a coffee table or used individually as side tables.
Cutting and Assembly
Step 1: Mark Up and Cut the Tops
Step 2: Check the Tops Fit Together
Step 4: Mark Up and Cut the Legs
Step 4: Assemble the Bases
Step 4: Finish the Bases
Step 6: Finish the Tops
The four tables are cut from one sheet of 94 1/2" x 47 1/4" x 3/4" CD grade plywood, costing about $50.
Have the supplier cut the sheet into four 23 3/4" x 14 1/2" sections for the legs and four 14 1/2" x 13 1/4" sections for the tops or cut it yourself using a circular saw.
To cut the legs, transfer the template (see Step 1) onto plywood as for the tops, cutting with a jigsaw.
The legs are assembled as a center piece plus two sides, secured with wood glue and 2" x 1/3" dowels.
Secure the tops to the bases with 3/4" x 3/4" angle brackets.
Using the Top template (see below) as a guide, draw a 2" square grid on paper to the correct size and transfer the shape. Make an exact copy to check the puzzle fits together then transfer onto the plywood.
Cut the tops using a jigsaw with a scroll blade set to a high stroke rate, switching off the pendulum and going slowly around the curves.
Position the tops to check they fit, smoothing any rough parts with a coarse file, sanding all over with 180- then 220-grit abrasive paper.
Use a pencil and steel rule to transfer the Legs template (see Step 1) onto the plywood, using a jigsaw to cut, smoothing all over using 180- then 220-grit abrasive paper.
On the center leg mark the center to make holes 1/2" from the top and base using a drill with 1/3" bit. Position a side leg on the mark, drilling into it by 3/4", repeating with the other side leg, securing with wood glue and dowels.
Apply polyurethane over the bases and under the tops, leaving it to dry. Attach the tops to the bases, securing angle brackets on opposite sides of each set of legs with the supplied screws.
Position the tables together, apply spray adhesive to the tops, leaving it to dry until it feels tacky then position the paper and use a scalpel or utility knife to trim around the edges then apply a sealer.
If you'd rather paint the tops, sand with 220-grit abrasive paper then apply at least two coats of a self-priming gloss acrylic paint with a small roller.