Now here’s an interesting way to use some salvaged wood. Talk about a one of a kind piece! A very cool project submitted by Brian.
The table measures 50″W x 14″D x 32″H. The base is solid maple, painted flat black w/a rub on satin finish. I did a slight rub through on most of the base and used a Cherry stain to add a hint of color. I applied the same cherry to the chamfer on the bottom of the top band. 3 small overlay drawers with a chamfered edge profile, satin nickel knobs, machine dovetailed, & wooden drawer runners. For the top I had to come up with a good way to stabilize the 100+ year old barnwood. I decided to attach in to a piece of 3/4″ MDF. First I painted the MDF the same flat black since I knew it would be a part of the visual up top. Then I tried to glue the barnwood to the MDF. BOING! popped right off, even after 24 hours. So I got out the Liquid Nails and drywall screws and made it stay together. Once that was secure, I mitered a 2″ tall by 3/4″ band all the way around. Prior to assembly, I ran a 1/4″ rabbet for the glass to rest in. Did some pre-finishing, assembled the top trim, attached it to the base, added the drawer runners, fit the drawers, 3 knobs and finally some Windex to top it all off. The day I saw this board as I sorted through the other 23 gray depressing boards, I knew exactly what the end project would look like. I was not disappointed.
13 Responses to “Barnwood Glass Top Hall Table – Viewer Project”
Beautiful. My dad tore down my grandparents old barn several years ago, but burned the wood thinking it was no good before I could get to any of it. I cry a little every time I see a project like this.
I’m going to have to build something like this, hope the farmer doesn’t catch me ripping wood off his barn. Seriously, I really like this and when the right board comes along I’ll borrow some from this design. Thanks for shareing.
dw
Absolutely love it. Neat idea encasing it in glass.
What a great idea. I love it. Well done.
The floor is a bit trippy though! ;-)
Very creative idea. And it works beautifully.
DD
What a nice way to display natures ART.
Oh Yes!
It is a shame that so much of the old wood like this is found to be worthless, except for burning. Several years ago I joined another in going through condemned barns and houses salvaging what we could in wood and hardware. At that time I sold what I collected in a flea market. I was always surprised at the prices I was able to get. Your table is a terrific piece and full of inspiration. Makes me want to get back out into the countryside. Also causes a problem for me–should I forsake all else to do likewise?
Appreciate you sharing this.
A wonderful and well executed idea that I’m sure many a woodworker will now implement. I’m seeing my brother-in-laws old barn in a whole new light now! Please don’t tell my brother-in-law!
Where did you say your brother in laws barn was located? I promise I won’t tell him.
The barn is in the Pacific Northwest Jim. I’m sure you can narrow it down from there. :-)
What a cool piece! I have seen so many display top tables but never one that featured a piece of wood. Fantastic imagination and wonderful execution. I love the color contrast from the black to the gray of the old wood and the pewter colored hardware. Nice job…..gets my brain spinning on ways to use this idea in other projects…..like maybe a box lid?
That is a very artistic design. I really like how it combines a modern piece with a county look. Most people would not think to combine those two design ideas.
I love seeing old wood put to use. It is also most rewarding for the woodworker. After having been given a couple chances to take what I wanted from old houses and buildings I was laughed at by them when they saw everything I took (until they saw a couple of the projects!) The patina and old slow growth is unmatchable, wide floor joists are gold in my eyes. Well done giving your old wood new life.
Nate