Long Tables Vs. Round Tables at a Wedding Reception

Wedding reception planning includes refreshments, decorations, seating and room arrangement, in addition to determining the location of the reception. The types of activities planned at the reception and the facility restrictions will influence some of your choices. The size and shape of tables at the reception can help you arrange the room to allow for the planned activities and needs.

Long Tables: Uses and Advantages

Long tables work well for collecting gifts for the bride and groom and when you have large numbers of guests to seat. The wedding party and attendants may all sit together if you hook several long tables together. Long tables may work well for buffet-type food displays. They may also hold the wedding cake and punch bowl for those who don't plan to fill up on finger foods and buffet items.

Arranging long tables in rows can make seating crowded and impede the flow of guests in the reception area. If you plan to use long tables, you need to allow sufficient aisle room to allow guests to travel between the tables. You also need to allow enough room between the chairs to let people get in and out of the chairs without inconveniencing other guests.

Round Tables: Uses and Advantages

Arranging seating around round tables will take up more space than using long tables, but it will be easier for people to get to their seats and mill around. Round tables will encourage people to sit in groups and chat. Ringing round tables around the edges of a dance floor allows guests to get up and dance and return to their seats without having to maneuver down narrow aisles. Round tables are also practical for holding small finger foods items and display decorations.

Mixing Table Types for Best Use

Using a mix of round and long tables may provide the best of both worlds. You can seat the bridal party and attendants along one side of a long table so people are free to walk up and speak to the bride and groom or other members of the wedding party. Using only one side of the table also means that no one sits with his back to the room.

Use long tables for food and gift collection. This will help keep the traffic flow working, and the tables can be set up against the walls to reduce the needed space.

Use round tables for guest seating and allow people to choose their own seats. This arrangement will encourage people to move from one group to another and socialize. Round tables can form a ring around the edges of the room and leave a center space for other activities.

Other Table Considerations

Long tables will cut down on the table decorations. You can use ribbon and table runners to connect decorations or just place the decorations at long intervals. Round tables will require table decorations for each table.

If you have to rent tables, you may find long tables are less expensive and easier to put up. You will likely need to rent or purchase fewer table covers using long tables because the covers can trail from one table to the next.

How to Design a Classic Billiard Room

A classically designed billiards room makes the perfect setting for a night of entertainment with friends and family. While simply having a billiards table makes for great entertainment, designing a room specifically for the game will make it feel much more encompassing. With a few supplies and an hour to spare, you can design a classic billiards room in your home.

Instructions

1

Position the billiards table in the center of the room. It is important to have equal space on all sides of the billiards table so players can shoot without worry of bumping a wall or breaking anything. An experienced billiards player will adapt to the environment around the table so long as it is even on all sides.

2

Install a pool cue rack along one wall of the billiards room. A place to store pool cues and chalk is a must in a classic billiards room. Stock the pool cue rack with a large selection of cues so players can find one that suits their needs.

3

Install an adjustable light above the billiards table. An adjustable light allows you to change the mood of the room and select lighting based upon the time of day if there are windows in the room. Proper lighting is a must when playing billiards---a room that is too bright or too dim can induce eye strain and make accurate shots more difficult.

4

Place comfortable chairs along the walls of the room. It is important that billiards players have a place to sit while they wait their turn to play. Black leather is a good choice for a classic chair.

5

Place a stocked mini-refrigerator in the billiards room so that no one goes thirsty. If children will be in the area, do not store alcohol in the refrigerator unless it has a locking mechanism on the door.

Height of a Nightstand

Nightstands, also known as bedside tables, are pieces of furniture that are very common in bedrooms. Because they are near the bed, they make convenient storage for items you might need while in bed or as a surface to display lighting. If you are building one of your own, keep some measurement considerations in mind. Does this Spark an idea?

Standard

No exact standard measurement exists for nightstands though some heights are common. A nightstand can range in height from approximately 18 to over 25 inches. The height of the nightstand you buy or build will likely depend on the style of furniture. For example, a shaker style nightstand will be minimal in trim and detailing, so it will likely be shorter and more simplistic in nature than a Victorian or French provincial-inspired nightstand that features trim pieces that could increase furniture height.

Bed Height

The focal point of any bedroom is the bed. The nightstands in a bedroom should not detract attention away from the bed; they should emphasize its presence while providing convenient bedside storage and surface space. The height of the nightstand should be proportional to the bed. As nightstands are commonly placed on either side of the bed, they can be used to create symmetry and balance on this wall.

Style Specific

The style of the room's decor can also help determine the height of a nightstand. For example, a more modern, minimalist-inspired room typically features low lines that make the room seem more airy and expansive. In this style, if the bed is low, likely the nightstand will be as well. In a more traditionally styled bedroom, the nightstands might be higher than the bed they flank -- or at least as tall.

Considerations

When purchasing a ready-made nightstand or assembling materials for a build, the height of the nightstand might be important. However, you should put the quality, material, look and detailing of the piece of furniture in the forefront when making your purchase. The needs of the room might also determine the height of the stand. If you need storage, the piece might be taller. If it is needed for a child's room, a small stand that is proportional to the bed is appropriate.

How to Make a Dining Room Table Out of a Grand Piano

Wood salvaged from a grand piano can be converted into a dining room table with a few hand tools, careful measurements and, if needed, chemical strippers for removing heavy layers of lacquer finish. The advantage of using piano wood is that its curing and manufacturing guarantees a nearly flawless flat surface. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Preparing either varnished or lacquered wood

1

Remove the piano cover from over the the strings. This large flat piece of laminated wood will be ideal for making a small dining room table. These covers can be anywhere from four to seven feet in length.

2

Strip any varnished finished woods using varnish remover. Get down to the bare wood. Sand the finish smooth.

3

Strip any lacquered finish from the wood. Lacquered wood has a heavy thick layer that can be removed with Strip-Eze chemical paint stripper or a similar product. It may take several applications to get down to bare wood. Removing the lacquer is imperative because sawing and cutting the laquer will cause unsightly chips and blemishes in the wood. Sand the finish smooth

Cutting the table from the unfinished piano cover

4

Determine the best available shape in the piano cover. An oval table will get the most area from the wood, but smaller square tables can also be cut. Remember: measure twice and cut once. Using a scribe or pencil, draw the shape of the table on the surface of the piano cover. Use the jigsaw and handsaw to remove all wood outside of the table area.

5

Sand the edges of the cut piece smooth and remove any burrs or splinters left by the cut. Sand repeatedly using finer and finer grit sandpaper. This will prepare the wood for its new finish.

6

Use the brush to apply a liberal coat of wood stain to the surface. Staining the bottom of the table is optional. While still damp, use a dry rag to wipe away the excess stain. Repeat the process as needed to get an even color to the grain. Allow to dry thoroughly.

7

Apply wood varnish, according to the manufacturer's instructions. The table will be used for serving food and drink. Sealing the wood with a protective varnish coat will eliminate any chance of stains ruining the finish.

Adding legs to the piano cover table

8

Do not use the legs from the piano for the new table. They are too short and will not allow chairs to be tucked underneath. Stain and varnish the four stock table legs to match the new finish on the piano cover.

9

Drill the necessary holes in the bottom of the table and attach the furniture hardware used to assemble the legs to the table. Follow the instructions included with the hardware.

10

Save all the scrap and excess wood from the piano cover and any other wood available from the piano. These pieces are excellent raw materials for other woodworking projects.

Instructions on How to Assemble a Brunswick Gold Crown III Pool Table

The Brunswick Gold Crown series III pool table was manufactured in 1986. It's alternatively known as the "AK" model, according to the original instructions for assembly. Putting together a pool table is a challenging task. Considering it's weight and dimensions, seek out help from a partner prior to assembling. These steps are an overview for the complex process -- but you can contact Brunswick directly to obtain the full, 12-page guide.

Instructions

1

Assemble the stretcher and legs. Place both parts upside-down and attach the four feet -- two on each leg. Use the provided 1/2-inch bolts to attach the stretcher to the legs. Then flip the assembled legs and stretcher right-side-up and attach two more bolts to secure the pieces on the top. Find the highest corner and use the levelers on the feet to level the table.

2

Assemble the included the base frame (consisting of two side rails), two end rails, and three cross supports. Each component is labeled -- match the numbers on each part to put the frame together correctly. Secure the rails with 1/2-inch wide by 7-inch long bolts. Lift the base frame onto the legs and attach it through the four leg attaching brackets, using the 3/8-inch bolts. Check that the frame is completely level. Use a hand planer to remove any high spots on the wood, if necessary.

3

Place the slate onto the base frame assembly. Don't worry if it overhangs the edge slightly -- it should. Just make sure the overhang is consistent all the way around. Drill 18 3/16-inch pilot holes in the slate, matching the angle of the counter-sink holes that already exist (as best you can). Insert two wood screws into the head slate and two into the foot piece. Check that the slate hasn't slid around or moved. Then, insert the 16 remaining screws.

4

Cut six 8 inch long by 1 inch wide pieces of cloth from the bed cloth. Glue each strip to each pocket cutout with contact adhesive. Brush the slate clean. Staple one end of the cloth using a staple gun, with staples 2 inches apart. Pull the cloth to the other end and staple it in place, then go around the sides adding staples every 2 inches.

5

Connect the rail assembly pieces upside down on a clean surface. Attach the aprons to each rail loosely with 5/8-inch bolts. Use a carpenter's square to check that the corners are even, then tighten all bolts. Carefully turn the entire assembly over and lower the foot-end (with the ball return) onto the table. Gently place the head end down. Attach the assembly to the base in each pocket. Add pocket caps by snapping them firmly into place.

Bar Patron Rules for a Pool Table

Whether you play on the same table every day or will be playing in a location you have never been before, certain rules should be followed when you play pool. Usually referred to as table etiquette, these rules are intended to protect the equipment and to ensure everyone is having a good time. Most are common courtesy, but be aware of any specific house rules as well.

Respect the Table

A pool table is an investment and should be treated with respect.

Unless an ashtray or drink holder is built into the body of the table, a billiards table is not meant to serve as such. Some locations do not allow smoking in the billiards area at all, while others provide ashtrays to give you a place to put your butts. Unless it is approved by the house, do not make jump shots on the table because of the possibility of tearing the table or stretching the fabric. Pool tables are expensive and should be taken care of by any person using them.

Common Etiquette

Do not make loud noises or try to distract the player.

Be polite to the other patrons in the bar. Nobody is hoping to spend the evening playing a game with someone who is being obnoxious or overbearing. If you wish to dispute a shot, do so in a calm and rational voice. Accusations and a raised voice are not the going to win you any friends or make the other players more likely to give your objection any consideration. Playing billiards is a social function for many people, and they expect the same courtesies as in other social settings, such as a dance hall.

Share the Table

If you want to play teams, get the other players' agreement.

Place your quarters on the table and wait your turn, but keep an eye on the games so you know when your time has come. If you are with a group of friends, and the establishment only has one or two tables, offer to share it with other patrons. Before you place your quarters, make sure the table is open for public play. Some establishments reserve tables for tournaments or league play and an apparently empty table may not be available for use.

Obey the House Rules

How the balls are arranged in the rack may be one sort of house rule.

Most establishments have special table rules. For example: requiring the loser(s) to buy a round for the winner(s). The house might modify how the game is played, such as a rule stating the winning shot must be banked off one or more rails. Before you get involved in a game, understand the stakes and rules.

How to Set a Dining Room Table

The guests are on their way, you've prepared the food, music is playing in the background, and you're all dressed up in your party clothes. All that's left is to set the dining table for your shindig. Once you've ruled out serving buffet style, you just need to know where to place your dishes and flatware. Don't panic, because setting a dining table is not that difficult once you know how many people are coming. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Determine the menu and number of guests. Gather the appropriate dishes and flatware and place them near the dining table.

2

Spread the tablecloth so that no wrinkles are present. Iron the tablecloth, if needed. Place mats are suitable in place of a tablecloth.

3

Set your centerpiece in the center of the table. Artfully arranged fresh flowers are always a lovely choice. Candles or a holiday-themed decoration are also acceptable.

4

Place the dinner plates one inch from the edge of the table in front of each chair.

5

Lay the fork on the left side of the plate. The knife goes on the right-hand side, with the sharp side facing the plate. The spoon goes right next to the knife. Line up all of these utensils to be even with the plate, 1 inch from the table edge.

6

Add any additional utensils, based on the menu. Spoons will go next to spoons and forks next to forks. Common additions include a salad fork and a soup spoon. The utensils should be placed in the order they will be used, with the first course utensils farthest from the plate.

7

Put the glass directly above the knife and spoon. A wineglass can be placed next to the water glass, if wine will be served.

8

Lay a napkin in the center of the dinner plate. A napkin ring will add a nice flair to the entire table setting.

How to Round a Square Peg With a Table Saw

Rounding a square peg on a table saw can be done in just a few minutes by making consecutive passes. This is sometimes done on fine furniture when certain custom sizes of parts are not available. The only required change to your saw is the addition of a small wooden fence that allows the blade to be tilted at an angle to penetrate the fence slightly. You can cut any square length of wood into a cylinder or round shape.

Instructions

1

Screw the plywood to the table saw fence; there are holes in the fence for this purpose. Insert the screws through the back of the fence and use the screwgun to screw the plywood to the fence from the back.

2

Lower the blade on the table saw all the way. Slide the fence over to 1/2 inch of the blade. Tilt the blade to 45 degrees. Turn on the saw and raise the blade by turning it 1/4 turn at a time until the end of the blade cuts into the plywood.

3

Lay the square peg behind the saw blade. Push the peg over the blade, using the plywood for the fence. Revolve the peg 1/4 turn at a time and run each side over the blade to cut off the corners.

4

Lower the blade all the way. Tilt the blade to 30 degrees. Move the fence to the right 1/4 inch. Turn on the saw and raise the blade to just penetrate the plywood as before.

5

Run the peg over the saw blade again to cut all sides off. If your peg still has flat spots, tilt the blade up 5 degrees at a time, move the fence to the right 1/8 inch at a time and continue making passes over the blade until round.

Purpose of Bedside Tables

Bedside tables usually stand on either side of a bed so you can easily reach one while you're in bed. They can take on various forms; a chest of drawers, a chair or even a stack of books may act as a bedside table. Bedside tables serve several functions and you can customize them to meet your needs. Does this Spark an idea?

Storage

Bedside tables mainly function as storage space for items you usually reach for just before or just after sleeping. For example, you can place bedtime reading materials or a glass of water on your bedside tables. Bedside tables allow you to quickly store these items without having to leave the bed or make a mess on the floor. The type of bedside table, therefore, depends on your storage needs. You may benefit most from drawers, shelves or cabinets.

Waking Up

You can place items such as alarm clocks and cell phones so you can hear the sounds even when you're in bed. This helps you wake up in the morning, as they're placed close to your sleeping area. In emergency situations when people need to reach you in the middle of the night, you would be more likely to wake up to a phone ringing right on a bedside table rather than somewhere else.

Lighting

If you end your day with reading, you can place lamps on bedside tables. They provide just enough lighting for reading comfortably, and because the switch is located right by the bed, you don't have to get out of bed to turn the light off when you're ready to sleep. Having lighting right by the bed also allows you to easily switch one on, even in the dark, so you can find your way to the bathroom in the middle of the night.

Design

Bedside tables should go well with other furniture pieces in the bedroom to enhance the room's overall design. Bedside tables don't have to match the bed frame or even each other. You can use different tables on the two sides of the bed. However, you should match their size to the length of the wall. A long wall requires larger tables to fill up the space.

How to Build an Over-the-Bed Table

An over-the-bed table is a rolling table used to eat, work or read on while in bed. In some ways, the table is similar to those used in hospitals. When not in use over the bed, the table is pushed to the foot of the bed and used as a side table. It reduces mess and discomfort caused by working or eating in bed. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Cut the 1-by-12 piece of wood into 2 pieces. One piece should measure 3-feet long and the other should be 4-feet long.

2

Sand the wood and its corners to smooth it out.

3

Measure and mark the boards 4 inches from the end and in the center of the width of the board. Place the pipe cuffs around the marks in the center. Mark the screw placement with a pencil.

4

Drill leader holes through each mark. Place the cuffs onto the holes and secure them to the wood with nuts and bolts. Screw the joint joiners on to the pipe cuffs.

5

Attach the wheels to the bottom of the 4-foot board. Place the wheels 4 inches from the edge and 2 inches from each side. Drill leader holes and screw the wheels in place.

6

Paint or stain the wood table.

7

Place epoxy glue into the cuff on the bottom piece and insert the pipe into the cuff. Screw the tighter screws on the joiner to tighten it around the pipe. Add epoxy into the top cuff and place the top piece onto the pipe. Tighten the screws on the joiner.

How to Design a Billiard Room

The game of billiards dates to a variation on croquet that was played in 16th century Europe. It evolved from a game played with two balls and a wicket to the game we know today. If you're lucky enough to have a big room in your house to use for billiards, make sure it has all the features that will make the game enjoyable for you and your guests. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1




Install racks for cues and storage for chalk. Situate the billiards table in the center of the room with plenty of space around it for taking shots.

2




Hang good lighting over the billiards table. Make it adjustable so that you can change the mood in the room. Place lamps near seating areas.

3

Use thick carpet in the room to dampen noise and to cushion errant balls that might be knocked off the table. Choose carpet that can stand up to the wear and tear around the table.

4




Place comfortable seating around the room for spectators and players who are waiting their turn. Tall chairs are traditional in a billiard room. Use coffee or bistro tables next to the seating for setting down drinks and plates.

5




Create a bar area with a stocked mini-fridge. Consider installing a popcorn machine for snacks.

6




Make sure the room is well ventilated if you have guests who are smokers. Install a ceiling fan and windows that can be opened.

7

Consider using fabric wall coverings with batting to soundproof the room.

What Is the Standard Height of a Dining Table?

Depending on the activity, an important factor in the comfortable use of a table is the height of the table top. Dining tables and their respective heights have evolved over time, from formal seating at a standard height table to more casual counter and bar dining. Does this Spark an idea?

Standard Dining Table

The standard height of a dining table is between 28" to 30" above the floor.

Counter-height Table

A counter-height table or kitchen island counter top is typically 36" above the floor. While kitchen counter tops are a comfortable height to stand and work at, it is also popular to sit at the counter for casual dining and interaction with activities in the kitchen.

Bar-height Table

Bar height tables are between 40" and 42" above the floor. This height of table is often seen in informal cafe dining or bars.

Outdoor Dining Table

The height for outdoor dining tables are the same as for standard dining tables, between 28" and 30" above the floor.

Chair Heights

The comfortable height for a dining chair seat is 10" to 12" below the height of the dining table. A typical dining chair is 18" to 20" high at the seat. A bar-height stool or chair is between 30" and 32" high at the seat.

How to Make a Tall Table

A tall table, often referred to as a pub table or a bistro table, stands about 40 inches high and makes a stylish addition to your home. Customize your table's size and color to match your other furniture, and save money by building it yourself. With a few simple woodworking tools and the wood of your choice, you can create the perfect piece of furniture for your home.

Instructions

1

Design your table according to your available space and desired style. Choose either a round or square tabletop, and decide how large you want the tabletop. The table's height should leave room for your tall chairs or stools. Purchase the wood for your tabletop, legs and support frame based on the measurements indicated in your design.

2

Measure and cut the tabletop, legs and support frame. If the table is round, the length of the support frame legs should equal the radius of the tabletop minus approximately two to four inches. If the table is square or rectangular, the length of each leg of the support frame should equal the corresponding side of the table minus two to four inches. Sand any rough edges.

3

Construct the support frame and table legs. The support frame consists of the four table legs at the table corners with the legs of the support frame in between, forming a rectangle. Stand each leg upright, with the end that will fasten to the bottom of the tabletop on the floor. The support frame legs should rest flat against the ground and will fit horizontally along the bottom of the tabletop. Screw the table legs into the support frame legs.

4

Attach the support frame to the tabletop by driving a screw through the support frame legs into the bottom of the tabletop. Use screws short enough so they will not drive through the top of the tabletop. Turn the table right-side up and wiggle the top on its legs. Tighten the screws in any joints that move.

5

Finish the table by varnishing or painting it as desired.

How to Make Bedside Tables

Bedside tables are one of the greatest inventions around. They vary in shape and size and can be found to fit anyones pocketbook. The most elaborate bedside tables are handcrafted and display rich exotic woods with carvings and colors that are difficult to describe. Depending on your taste, you can build a set of bedside tables that match your personality or they can be simple flat surfaces on which to place a lamp and a glass of water for bedtime. The most difficult part of building a table is the legs. It is recommended that these be purchased. Legs that vary only slightly will cause a table to wobble. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Label the 1 piece of oak plywood 18-inches x 24-inches as the top. Drill holes in the edges of the 1 x 2 inch oak, 3 inches from the ends, with the 1/8-inch drill bit. Then, drill the countersink holes with the 3/8-inch drill bit. Do not drill more than halfway through. Do this on all four 1 x 2-inch oak pieces.

2

Turn the top so that the bottom side is up. Draw a line 1-inch from the edge around the perimeter of the top.

3

Run a bead of wood glue to the long edge of the 1 x 2-inch oak and secure it to the bottom side of the top. Be certain to line it up with the 1-inch mark around the perimeter of the top. Repeat this until all four pieces of the 1 x 2-inch oak has been installed.

4

Measure and cut the flat mold to make a picture frame that will cover the plywood edge of the top. Secure these pieces with the brads and set the nail heads with the nail set.

5

Apply glue to the end of the leg that secures to the bottom side of the top. Place it in the corners created by the 1 x 2-inch oak. Secure the leg by driving 1 -inch drywall screws through the 1 x 2-mch oak and into the leg. Repeat this until all four legs are installed. Turn table upright, sand lightly, and finish as desired.

Bedside Table Ideas

Nearly everyone uses bedside tables to hold bedside lamps, books, glasses and countless other items that they use right before bed or may need during the night. Though their purpose is very utilitarian, their looks do not usually follow this trend. Many bedside tables are made to look trendy and fashionable with hundreds of styles and colors from which to choose. However, though so many choices exist, some turn to atypical choices for their nightstands. Whatever your tastes, the possibilities are nearly endless. Does this Spark an idea?

Exotic

This style works best for those who love a foreign or eclectic decor. Exotic bedside tables are usually covered in some kind of organic material. The most common is tight-woven bamboo or wicker with leather accents. These stands can be made entirely of wicker or have a wooden base underneath. Other exotic nightstands are covered in suede or leather with oiled bronze hardware. These also may have decorative rivets around the edges of the top.

Both of these styles usually have traditional shapes: a set of drawers, a drawer and a shelf or a drawer and a door opening to reveal a set of shelves. They are perfect for those who need a lot of storage next to the bed but want to keep things neat. One caution: If you like to keep a beverage on your nightstand, always use a coaster with these materials. Condensation will stain and weaken them.

Simple and Unusual

If you have neither a lot of money nor a lot of space next to your bed, these nightstands work well. Simply set a pretty chair with a ruler-flat seat or a decorative ladder next to your bed. For the chair, you can set a tall, thin lamp on the seat along with a book and some water, perfect for the minimalist. For the ladder, use an articulating light with a strong spring clip at the bottom; these often come with pretty glass shades. You can also change the shade to suit your style. Use wire to make decorative hooks to hold your glasses and jewelry. Screw a piece of wood to one of the rungs to hold your book and a glass of water.

Many pretty, vintage chairs are available at flea markets and yard sales; some of them just need a good sanding and a new coat of paint or stain. You can make a decorative ladder yourself from sturdy, varnished branches, screws and decorative twine.

Vintage and Modern

Wrought iron and wicker is the way to go for those with a vintage or Victorian style. These nightstands have iron frames molded and curled into spirals and vines with wicker tops and shelving. You have a lot of options with this kind of nightstand. Some have wicker or wooden drawers built in while others have several shelves below the woven top. You can also easily convert another piece of vintage furniture into a nightstand. A pretty, Victorian style bar cart doesn't have to hold wine and liquor. Instead, it can support your reading lamp and nightly routine items.

If your style leans toward more contemporary lines, you might do well with a different kind of metal. Because many people keep electronic files rather than hard copies, filing cabinets are becoming obsolete. Instead of tossing them, paint them with a bright, fun color and set them next to your bed. Top them with an aluminum lamp and line the drawers with felt to protect items stored there.

Different Ways to Hang Mini Pendant Lights Over Kitchen Tables

Pendants are the design of the day in kitchen lighting, but not every kitchen can handle a huge lamp suspended over the table. For versatility or better scale, choose mini-pendants, singly or in groups, to provide illumination for a favorite recipe or a coffee break. Kitchen pendants come in humble and haute cuisine styles, so consider your penchant for imaginative lighting when making a selection. Does this Spark an idea?

Line-up

A line of mini-pendants emphasizes the straight architectural lines of kitchen space in a contemporary interior. When posting the lights over a table or breakfast bar that is visible from various vantage points in the room, stand in each opening and note the sightlines. Hang balloons where you will position the pendants to determine the best spacing and height before committing, especially if you plan to order fixed pendants that are custom designed for the space and can't be altered or returned.

Canning Cluster

Mason jars make terrific mini-pendants for a kitchen table. They work in a contemporary space as sleek, glass tubes that reveal the workings of the lamp inside. And they evoke end-of-summer country canning in a vintage or country-style kitchen. Cluster four, six or more pendants together for a chandelier effect. Use different heights ,and put light bulbs in a few of the clustered fixtures; the glass will bounce light around and make the room seem as if each jar is lit.

Tea Lights

Drill some holes in mismatched flea market tea cups and pots, and invite Alice to tea. An upside-down china pot will hold an LED lamp for a surprisingly bright light, and tea cups can sparkle with smaller, low-wattage fixtures or chandelier bulbs to add to the ambiance. Try the teapot centered with a circle of cups around it for a topsy-turvy, up-in-the-air "table setting." It's an imaginative look that marks your kitchen as a place for raspberry trifle, homemade apple pie and engaging kitchen table conversations.

Adjustable Height

When the kitchen table gets used for homework, bread baking, holiday cookie cutouts and late-night romantic snacks, you need a whole menu of lighting choices. Do the next best thing, and install a mini-pendant on an adjustable pulley. The lamp can be raised up and down for close work, family meals or everyday use. You could even put it on a dimmer for more choices. Suspend a bar of mini-pendants from a pulley, or use a brighter light bulb for a single lamp.

Easy DIY Dining Table

Just because you are not a designer or an engineer does not mean you cannot build your own furniture. While you may not be educated or experienced enough to create desks and armoires, there are plenty of different kinds of furniture that have simple structural designs. For example, while creating your own dining room table might sound intimidating, you can do so rather easily by using an old door and pair of sawhorses. Your table will not only look amazing but it will truly be one of a kind. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Attach a piece of 100-grit sandpaper to the bottom of your electric sander. Sand your two saw horses using uniform movements, rubbing the sander around their surface area. Repeat with 220-grit sandpaper and 360-grit sandpaper.

2

Moisten a soft cloth with mineral spirits. Rub the cloth around the two sawhorses, soaking up the dust from sanding. Allow them to air dry.

3

Stain or paint the sawhorses to match the color of your antique door. If you stain them, allow the stain to soak for 20 minutes before wiping it off with an old rag. Allow it to dry overnight, then apply a second coat and wipe that off. Allow the second coat to dry overnight. If you paint, apply a single coat and wait 24 hours before applying a second coat.

4

Space the sawhorses 3 to 4 feet apart. Line them up so they are perfectly parallel and even with each other.

5

Place the door on top of them. Adjust the table and sawhorses so that the table is centered on top and the saw horses are in line.

6

Drill two 6-inch screws through either end of the door and into each sawhorse, spacing the two screws 12 inches apart. This will anchor the door to the sawhorses and give you and instantly stable table.

How to Decorate a Small Room With a Bed & Computer Table

A small room may not offer as many decor options as a larger one, but there are still plenty of ways to transform it into an attractive and stylish space. Furniture placement should be carefully planned to make maximum use of the available space, especially with two large pieces such as a bed and a desk. With the correct use of color and finishes, and taking advantage of natural light to create a sense of space, you can trick the eye into thinking your room is much larger than it really is. Does this Spark an idea?

Color Palette

Ceilings in small rooms should always be painted bright white. The minute you darken the ceiling it feels lower, making the room feel smaller. Using white gloss paint on baseboards, doors and woodwork gives a room a fresh, clean feeling and the gloss finish reflects natural light around the room. Use cool, visually receding colors on the walls to make the room appear larger. Light shades of serene blue, calming green or neutral colors with cool undertones such as light mocha, creams and grays are all suitable choices.

Separate Areas

Although it's not easy to create separate areas in a small room, you can ensure that two areas -- sleeping and work -- don't merge into one. Positioning the desk at the farthest point from the bed, such as on the opposite wall, instantly creates a sense of separating different areas. With the use of floating shelves above the desk, all work-related items or books are kept away from the sleeping area. Standing the desk on a large floor rug with a distinct pattern or color also creates the appearance of it being a separate space.

Windows and Lighting

The simpler the window dressings, the more light is allowed to penetrate the room. Fussy, extravagant layers of fabric and valances will only serve to block natural light. A roman or blackout blind, softened with sheer fabric draped around a curtain pole, is a simple yet attractive option. Recessed lighting is an efficient way to light a small room, as the lack of lampshade allows maximum light to reach all corners of the room. A simple tabletop lamp on the bedside table offers a softer light for bedtime reading.

Accessories

Keep accessories to a minimum to prevent a cluttered appearance. Under-bed storage boxes replace the need for extra furniture, and over-door shoe organizers free up floor space. Splashes of brighter colors can be introduced into the room with soft furnishings such as cushions and bedding, and the use of mirrors is a clever way to reflect light around the room and create a more spacious feel. Wall art offers visual interest, but should be kept simple to avoid an overpowering effect.

How to Distress Rustic Tables

Rustic tables have a sense of character that is hard to find in new furniture. The areas where the life of a family has bumped into the surface of the table, with scratches and stains and worn marks, make it a part of history that is hard to replicate. Although you might not have an heirloom table to add to your home, you can distress a new table to add that aura of family life. There is no set way to distress a table. Copy the look of old tables, or create your own look. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Rough up the surface of the table by hitting the surface with the end of a flat-ended screwdriver, a hammer, a shellfish pick, rocks or anything else available to show wear. Hit the legs of the table with a section of chain to show the wear that would come with normal life after several years. Scratch some corners with steel wool or a wire brush down to the bare wood. Gouge the wood with a scraper or even burn the wood with a soldering iron in some spots.

2

Sand down the table to wear off any new sharp edges created by distressing the wood. Start with medium 150 grit sandpaper and then drop to a finer 220 grit. Sand to smooth the surface, but not to remove the knicks and gouges.

3

Apply a base color stain, rubbing it in with a soft rag using a circular motion. This creates the almost dirty look in the cracks and dents of the table. Use a light colored stain with a yellow tone as opposed to a dark wood stain. Allow the stain to dry completely.

4

Seal the surface of the wood with varnish or lacquer to keep the base color stain from spreading. Allow the sealant to dry overnight or according to the manufacturers directions.

5

Add another layer of stain topcoat, painting it over the surface of the table and legs with a sponge applicator or fine paintbrush. After allowing it to dry to the touch, buff corners of the table with steel wool to remove some of the finish and to expose the wood below. Dry the stain topcoat.

6

Brush on the final finish with a fine 2-inch brush, working with the grain of the table. This finish will bring out the wood grain as well as the distressed look of the table while still giving it a smooth finish. Add several more layers of varnish to add the antique look to the table, waiting several hours between each application. Dry for 24 to 48 hours before using.

Common Tablecloth Sizes

Tablecloths can be practical or elegant and can set the tone for your table. Different shapes, sizes and colors are designed to meet individual needs. To select a tablecloth, you must know the shape and size of your table and become familiar with the various fabrics available. The size table linen depends on what it will be used for and your own preference. Rely on your own measurements rather than tag information when purchasing table linens. Does this Spark an idea?

Square Table

If the table is to be used for dining, determine the drop you will want from the top of the table down. Most people prefer a drop of about 8 to 12 inches. After deciding on the length of the drop, measure the length and width of the table, multiply the drop by 2 and add the result to determine the size needed for your tablecloth. The standard size tablecloth for a square table is 52x52 inches and fits a table that measures 25x28x40x40 inches. This table will seat four.

Rectangular Table

Rectangular tables are sometimes used for formal dining because they can seat six or more people. A standard drop is 8 to 12 inches, but a more dramatic look requires a drop of 30 inches on each side. To determine the size you need, measure the length and width, and add in the desired drop multiplied by 2. The standard tablecloth size for a rectangular table is 52x70 inches, which fits a table that measures 28x46 inches up to 60x84 inches and fits a table that is 48x72 inches.

Oval Table

A table that is long with curved sides and rounded at the ends is an oval. An oval table can be made from a round one by adding one or two leaves. If you cannot find an oval tablecloth, use a rectangular one. A standard oval tablecloth measures 60x102 inches and fits a table measuring 36x74 inches up to 48x90 inches. This table will seat 8 to 10 people. A larger standard oval tablecloth size is 60x120 inches for tables that measure 36x94 inches up to 48x104 inches and can seat 10 to 12 people. The largest standard oval size is 60x144 inches, which fits tables 36x118 inches up to 48x130 inches and will seat 12 to 14 people.

Round Table

Round tables can be used as they are or can be lengthened with the addition of leaves to become an oval. The size of a round table is based on diameter. There are two standard sizes for round tables. The 70-inch size will fit a table that measures 44x60 inches in diameter and will seat four to six people. The 90-inch size fits tables 60 to 78 inches in diameter and seats six to eight people.

How to Make a Round Crocheted Placemat

Placemats can be expensive, especially if you like a lot of options for your kitchen table. As they can be easy stained or otherwise destroyed, making placemats yourself is a wise decision. Crocheted placemats can give your table a light and delicate feel, as well as perfectly match any color scheme.

Instructions

1

Chain four. Join with a slip stitch. Complete round one by chaining three, then stitching 13 double crochet stitches in the ring. Join with a slip stitch at the top of chain three.

2

Complete round three by chaining three. Double crochet stitch in the same space as chain three. Double crochet stitch in each double crochet stitch around. Join with a slip stitch.

3

Repeat the pattern from round three for rounds four through 12. Complete rounds 13 and 14 by chaining one, then single crochet stitching in each double crochet stitch. Slip stitch to top of chain one. Bind off.

Kitchen Banquette Ideas

Banquette literally means upholstered bench. These upholstered benches are often found in kitchen nooks. They're cozy, create family seating space in the kitchen and often double as convenient hidden storage. Does this Spark an idea?

Traditional Corner Banquette

The corner banquette is the most commonly installed banquette because it fits neatly into kitchen nook corners. Both free-standing and wall-mounted banquette benches work with this banquette style. Include either a square table that will create uniformity with the square bench, or a round table for a more country eclectic appeal. Add two free-standing chairs opposite from the bench to complete the seating arrangement.

Church Pews

For something more rustic and unique, church pews make ideal banquette seating. Pews are simple to find in antique shops, from wood workers or at church sales, but often require refinishing. While this style of banquette seating will not work in ultra-modern homes, it will work with nearly every other home decor style. Couple versatile and comfortable pew benches with a wooden table of the same stain and wooden chairs in a similar style.

1950s Diner

The diner-style banquette is ideal for retro kitchens and creates a funky throwback look in kitchen nook spaces. This look is created by red leather or vinyl upholstered benches, coupled with a white Formica or glass-top diner table. Add two or three red upholstered, steel-frame diner chairs to complete the retro look. Hang red valances on windows behind the 1950s style banquette or place shelves behind the banquette and decorate with retro diner-style antique dishes.

Banquette Booth

Create a restaurant-style booth in the kitchen with a double bench or circular banquette. When creating a rectangular banquette both, position two covered benches of equivalent length facing one another on either side of a rectangular table in the kitchen nook space. In larger nooks, where more space is available, create a round banquette booth with a round table and circular upholstered banquette bench.

Storage

Thanks to their bench features, banquettes are ideal storage spaces. Install hinged tops on banquette benches and store china, tablecloths, linens, towels, blankets, pillows or pots and pans in the kitchen banquette. While this storage solution is workable for most banquette styles, pew banquettes are not adequate for storage because of their open-air underside. Do not store chemicals in the banquette bench as the banquette is used for eating.

How to Make Floral Centerpieces for High School Graduation Tables

Create graduation-themed floral centerpieces to spruce up the tables at a high school graduation. This style of centerpiece showcases a flower arrangement coming out of the top of a paper graduation cap. Each centerpiece is arranged in a basic, massed or mounded style, which is easy to execute. Any variety and color of flower can be used as the main bloom, so that the school colors and class flower can be showcased during the celebration.

Instructions

1

Fill a bucket halfway full of water. Place a block of floral foam into the bucket of water to soak for 15 minutes. Place a square glass vase on a clean work surface.

2

Remove the foam from the water. Cut the floral foam into a square that will fit snugly inside the vase using a knife. Place the foam square in the bottom of the vase. Fill the vase half full of water. Dry the outside of the vase with a cloth.

3

Measure the height of the vase with a ruler. Lay an 18-by-24-inch piece of construction paper on your work surface. Mark the height measurement on each end of the 18-inch sides. Draw a line between the two marks. Cut along the line with a pair of scissors to reduce the paper to the height of the vase.

4

Wrap the black construction paper around the outside of the vase. Glue the paper ends together around the vase with craft glue.

5

Cut a piece of black card stock into a square that is 3 to 4 inches larger than the dimensions of the vase. Place a cup or bowl in the center of the square and trace around it. Cut along the traced circle to create a hole in the center of the square. Place the square on top of the vase, positioning the hole over the vase's opening. Tape or glue the paper square in place.

6

Cut 1 to 2 inches off the stems of 10 to 12 large flowers while holding them under the water in the bucket. Choose flowers such as roses or lilies or use the graduating class flower if there is one. Arrange three of the flowers in a cluster in the center of the vase. Push the stems into the floral foam to secure them. Arrange the remaining seven to nine flowers evenly around the center flowers, pushing their stems into the floral foam.

7

Clip the ends of 10 to 12 foliage stems. Choose foliage such as leather leaf fern, maiden hair fern or mock orange. Insert the stems into the floral foam between and around the flower stems. Fill in all gaps between the flowers to create a nice background for the blooms.

8

Clip the end of four to six sprays of filler flowers. Select filler flowers such as statice, Queen Anne's lace, baby's breath or freesia. Insert the stems randomly throughout the arrangement to fill in any remaining gaps. Turn the arrangement as you add the stems to look for holes and gaps.

9

Glue the tassel onto the top of the card stock hat brim. Place a drop of hot glue onto the top of the tassel's cord with a hot glue gun. Gently press the tassel cord to the side of the cardstock and hold it in place until the glue dries.

How to Round Corners on HTML Tables

In Hypertext Markup Language (HTML), any given division or table is formatted by default with right angles: all shapes are rectangular. This allows for greater ease of layout and coding. However, occasionally there is a need for rounded corners in order to make aspects of a page stand out. This process does not require any special coding, but rather relies on the use of images within the standard rectangular layout.

Instructions

Designing Corners

1

Begin a new file in your image editing software.

2

Create a small square image. Start out with a 40 x 40 pixel image. You can change these dimensions later if you want bigger or smaller curves. Within this image, create a circle.

3

Shade the interior of the circle with the same color that will be used for your table. Shade the exterior with the same color that will be used for your background. If you wish to have a transparent background, do not shade the exterior, but make sure to save your image as a transparent .gif file.

4

Cut the image into four quadrants. Save each quadrant as an independent file. Use a file name that clearly designates the position of your corner. For example, if you have created the upper left corner, save the image as "."

HTML

5

Open the code of your web page.

6

Find the relevant table tags. Set the first column width to the pixel width of your corner image. For example, if your corner is a 20 x 20 pixel image, enter the following attribute:

7

Enter an
tag in the corresponding first cell in the first column. The corner image makes up the content of that cell. Make the attributes of the image match the desired dimensions, and set the border equal to 0. For example:




8

Enter similar
tags for each of the other corner cells. The corresponding rows and columns of these cells will constitute the border of your table.

How to Make Miniature Paper Furniture

The directions here are for a bed, dining room table, and chair that can be used with any dollhouse. You can enlarge these patterns to the size you want. Make your furniture out of thin cardboard, vellum, or another stiff paper to create sturdy, more durable pieces. Cut on the solid lines, and fold on the dotted lines. After you cut out each piece, fold the side with the dotted lines underneath so the lines won't show. Use tape when needed on the bottom side to make it less noticeable. When your furniture is finished, you can color each piece with colored pencils or markers.

Instructions

Make a Miniature Paper Bed, Table and Chair

1




To make the bed, trace the pattern in the illustration onto vellum. Draw dotted lines as the pattern shows. Now cut out your design. Fold the top forward, or up, so it can serve as the headboard.

2

Fold the remaining three sides under along the dotted lines. This is the dust ruffle that will support the bed. Cut two small slits on the straight lines at the end of the dust ruffle. When you stand up the bed, the overlapping paper will appear to be fabric folding over itself just as a dust ruffle would.

3




To make the table, trace the pattern onto vellum. Draw dotted lines as they appear in the pattern. It might look as if your table has eight legs, but this is to give the table extra stability. Cut out your table. Fold down the four sides along the dotted lines.

4

When you're done, the legs in each corner should fit together. Tape the legs together underneath with a narrow piece of tape. Joining them this way will balance your table.

5




To make the chair, trace the pattern onto vellum. Add dotted lines like the pattern shows. Cut out your chair.

6

Fold the back of the chair forward, or up, as you did with the headboard of the bed. Fold the three sides with legs under. Tape the legs underneath on the back side.

How to Build an Adjustable Bedside Table

An adjustable table adds functionality to your bedroom. The table replaces a traditional nightstand and serves serves multiple purposes in the room. Keep the table low when using it as a nightstand, but raise its height to create a small table for writing, reading or working. By using adjustable table legs, the project is suitable even for those with few woodworking skills. The legs adjust up and down for regular use. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Sand a 2-by-24-by-24-inch wood board with coarse-grit sandpaper. Rub the sandpaper over the wood, following the natural grain. The board serves as the top for your bedside table. Use the rough sandpaper to remove imperfections and marks on the wood.

2

Rub fine-grit sandpaper over the wood board, once again following the natural grain. The rough sandpaper leaves behind a rough texture, but the fine-grit makes it smoother. Continue rubbing the wood with the sandpaper until it feels smooth.

3

Dip a foam paintbrush in wood stain and wipe off the excess along the edge of the can. Wipe the paintbrush across the wood, applying an even coat. After a few minutes pass, rub an old rag across the top, which removes any stain the wood did not absorb. Repeat Steps 1 through 3 on the bottom of the board.

4

Measure 2 inches in from the corner of the board and place an adjustable metal table leg on the wood. The leg should have a small rim that wraps around the top of the leg. This rim has four holes for screws. Sink a 1 1/2-inch wood screw through the rim and into the table. Sink three additional screws through the table leg and into the table.

5

Repeat Step 4 with each of the table legs. Tighten each screw until the screw head sits flat with the rim around the leg. The bottom of each leg moves up and down, which lets you adjust the height of the table when needed. Turn the table over so that it sits on its legs.

Game Room Setup Ideas

A game room can be many things: a place to host friends and neighbors, a retreat to watch a favorite sport in peace or the battleground of a challenge between parents and children. Whatever the goal for a game room, setting it up properly from the beginning will make sure it supplies years of fun and enjoyment for all. Does this Spark an idea?

Playing vs. Watching

Make sure there's room to sit and watch the big game on television.

While it's good to pick up the pool cue or a handful of darts, sometimes it's better just to sit and watch others play. A good place to start is to decide where the television and entertainment system is going to go and what part of the room is going to be reserved for playing.

Take into account how large the games are going to be and how much room is going to be needed to comfortably contain a pool table, air hockey table and other game room games. From there, decide where the lounge area is going to be. Make sure there's room for a full-size sofa, love seat and several recliners.

Pool Table

Put the pool cues within easy reach of the table.

The pool table is one of the largest items that will be in the game room. Not only does it take up a large footprint, but extra space is needed around the table to make playing comfortable. There has to be enough room to hold a pool cue without colliding with walls or furniture, so mapping out where the pool table goes should be near the top of the to-do list.

To figure out how much room is needed, take the size of the table and add on the length of a pool cue plus an extra 6 inches on each side of the table. This will give a final footprint.

The rack for the pool cues, chalk and triangles should be conveniently mounted on the wall nearby.

Bar

Don't forget shelves for glasses.

For those planning on installing a bar, this step can be made as easy as possible by taking into account where the water lines are already located. This way, it's easy to install a bar sink without having to do much in the way of plumbing.

Install shelves and a bar mirror on the wall. This will give the bartender a handy place to store bottles of all kinds. Consider a mini fridge as well. Space beneath the bar can be outfitted with shelves for glasses and cups, as well as small appliances, such as a coffee maker.

Make the most of the bar space. This is an excellent place to set up a jukebox or a laptop that's connected to the surround sound, allowing the bartender and patrons alike to select the music from where they sit. When installing lighting, make sure there are plenty of lights above and behind the bar.

Theme

This 1970s-reminiscent game room is fun and welcoming.

Consider a main theme for the room and collect decor, glassware and other theme items as the room is being constructed. A favorite sports team or Hollywood genre are always popular and afford many decorative opportunities.

The theme doesn't even have to be game related. Create an Irish pub, a medieval lounge with stoneware mugs and weapons on the walls or a trendy nightclub atmosphere with neon signs and vinyl-covered bar stools.

How to Place a Dining Table

The table is the focal point of the dining room. Buffets and china cupboards prove fashionable accessories, but the table is what fulfills the room's name. According to "101 Feng Shui Tips for the Home" by Richard Webster, "The main focus of the room is the table. Everything else is of lesser importance. The dining table should be placed near the middle of the room, or at least in a position where your guest can get up from the table without feeling restricted by a wall." Placement of the table is the first step in a functional dining room. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Move furniture to one side or out of the room.

2

Measure the width and length of the dining room and determine the room's center.

3

Push the table to the center of the room, so that the table's central point is over the room's center point, and push the chairs into place around the table. According to Tips for Effective Dining Room Design, "Arrange furniture in circular, square or octagonal groupings in the middle of the floor. Position dining chairs so they back in the direction of a wall rather than a doorway. Neither the dining table nor any of the chairs should be positioned under a false beam."

4

Arrange buffets and china cupboards around the room in complementary positions to the table. Take care that no chairs back into glass-fronted cabinets. Tall cupboards should be placed against walls and not in front of windows.

How to Build a Breakfast Table

A breakfast table lets you savor the morning meal in the kitchen's cozy atmosphere. It can fit easily in a smaller area, turning it into a great alternative to the traditionally large dining table. A little experience in crafting and cutting wood can be quite helpful.

Instructions

1

Measure the available area in the kitchen or room where the breakfast table is to be installed. Design the table with dimensions fitting the space.

2

Calculate the dimensions of a comfortable chair at home to determine the table's required depth and height.

3

Make frames from wood strips for the outer dimensions of the table. Create a list that shows the size of each piece of wood required.

4

Cut wooden pieces into the required shapes and sizes to assemble the sides of the frame. Use wood glue at the joining surfaces. Drill long screws at junctions.

5

Cover the frames with inch, medium-density fiberboard. Make perfectly straight cuts on the fiberboard so that it matches the table correctly.

6

Use construction adhesive to clamp and attach all separate pieces into one unit. Secure the panels and remaining items using a pneumatic nail gun.

7

Finish by installing the remaining screws to the table and paint the surface with varnish.

Instructions on Building a Pool Table

The game of billiards as we know it today evolved from the 17th century. With green felt designed to mimic grass and cue sticks used to tap billiard balls, this pastime branched off as an indoor game similar to croquet. An average 8-foot pool table includes a playing area 88 inches long by 44 inches wide. Building your own billiards table requires at least three days of labor at a cost of $1,000 to $2,000. Draw out your plans before beginning to know the dimensions of the table you wish to create.

Instructions

1

Construct the cabinet using oak and hickory, which are made of intricately woven grains and can handle heavy weight loads. Measure and cut 0.75-inch oak plywood and hickory panels to fit your length and width dimensions. A cabinet for an 8-foot table requires two 2-by-6-by-88-inch side pieces and two 2-by-6-by-44-inch end pieces. Fasten the hickory panels to the inside of the oak panels with a thick layer of permanent epoxy. Clamp the panels together for one hour until completely dry. Screw the double-thick panels together to form the cabinet frame. The center of the cabinet must angle downward at a 15-degree slope to each top and bottom edge.

2

Build the leg mounts using two 2-by-8-inch oak or Douglas fir wood panels. Bolt the panels at a horizontal angle inside each far end of the cabinet.

3

Measure and cut four 12-by-14-by-29.5-inch oak or Douglas fir panels. Screw and glue the panels together to form a long rectangular cube. This 29.5-inch-long device will act as one leg. Place the leg into an upright position in one of the corners of the leg mount. Bolt the leg into place with a socket wrench. Repeat this step three more times to complete all the legs.

4

Measure and cut four 2-by-8-inch oak or Douglas fir crossbeams. The beams should measure the width of the cabinet. Coat two boards with a thick layer of epoxy. Press and clamp the other boards on top of the epoxy-covered boards for dual strength. Keep clamps in place for one hour. Remove clamps, and fit the crossbeams into place one-third of the way in toward the center from each end. Nail the crossbeams into place.

5

Cut 3-by-1.5-inch slate support beams to fit atop the top rim of the cabinet. Screw the support beams into place.

6

Measure and trim a 1-inch-thick piece of slate to set atop the cabinet. Screw the slate into place. The slate should overhang the cabinet by 7 inches on all sides.

7

Cut 35-degree angles with a handsaw at each table corner and at the center on both sides to make room for pocket installation.

8

Build the rails with 0.75-inch-thick and 3-inch-wide wood. Glue the rails to the inside of the support beams. Measurements must consider pocket holes. Rail pocket hole angles are best cut at 55-degree angles on the corners and 15-degree angles on side pockets.

9

Cut a single layer of felt, and affix it atop the slate with glue.

10

Insert 3/8-inch bolts to secure leather pockets into the rails.

11

Cut 1- to 2-inch-long strips of felt to glue alongside the inner edges of the rails for an easy ball bounce.

How to Design Your Own Dining Room Table

Dining room tables are multi-functional. They are used to gather around at meal times, to talk with friends and family around, to do homework, and to do crafts and play board games. Most homes have a designated space for a dining room table, and some of these spaces are large while others are small. The space that you have, along with the needs that you identify for a dining table, will greatly inform its design. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Determine the size of the space you have for your dining room table. This aspect of the design is important so you know what type of table will fit in your space. Measure the area so when you design your table you will have accurate dimensions. You may even want to lay newspapers on the floor to get an idea of how a real table will fit into the space.

2

Browse through furniture stores to spark your creative juices. Look at all the different styles of tables to help you decide what you like and what you do not. Take your measurements and use them to help get an idea of what style of table will fit best in your space. If your space is long and narrow, you will need a rectangular table that is not too wide. If you have a square space, consider a round or square table to go into your dining area. For awkward spaces, consider a corner bench and table.

3

Design your new table to complement the style of your kitchen. If you have a contemporary look in your home, design the dining table to blend in with that theme. The contemporary style has clean, straight lines with one dominant, solid color, and tables are usually made of wood or metal with a glass top. If your style is more traditional, then your table will be made of wood, have curves, and shapely, ornate legs.

4

Choose wood species that are considered hardwoods, like oak, maple, walnut, cherry and alder.
Hardwoods will hold up against everyday use better than wood species that are considered soft, like pine, ash, or birch. You also want to try and match the wood of your table to other woods within the same area, such as the kitchen and family room.

5

Consider the long-term, everyday uses of the table. If you entertain a lot around the holidays but don't entertain the rest of the year, design a table with leaves that can be inserted to increase the size. These types of tables are ideal for smaller homes, giving you the option of expansion when needed, but reducing the size for everyday living. If the table you design has four legs and can extend past 96-inches long, consider placing a fifth leg in the center when the leaves are in to help support the weight of the table at its center. This leg can be removed when the table is not extended to full size. If designing a rectangular or oval-shaped table with a pedestal base, you may want to place two smaller pedestals instead of one large one so that both ends of the table will be supported.

Which Is Better for Dining Room Tables: Wood or Marble?

Friends and family gather at the dining table for holidays, birthdays and just because, making the dining table very important. Choosing the right table can make or break the overall appearance of the room. Both marble and wood tables have their own pros and cons. Consider them before making your dining room table choice. Does this Spark an idea?

Wood Dining Tables

Wooden dining tables can be crafted into a plethora of sizes and shapes. The legs can be straight and simple, or they can be turned wood, meaning they feature shapes or designs. Wood tables can be carved and handcrafted or mass-produced, making their price vary greatly. Furthermore, wooden dining tables can be stained or painted any color.

Marble Dining Tables

Much like wood tables, marble dining tables come in a variety of sizes and shapes. They can be custom-made or mass-produced, depending on the budget of the homeowner. Marble comes in many different colors, but is not as customizable as wood. The bases for the marble table can be made from wood, metal, more marble or another type of stone.

Considerations for Wood Dining Tables

Wood tables will age naturally, giving them a well-loved, well-worn appearance that many people desire. Wood tables tend to be hard and long-lasting, making them ideal for families with children. However, real wood tables can be extremely heavy, making them difficult to move if necessary. Top-grade woods can be expensive, but low-quality woods can warp, which could mean that the table would have to be replaced.

Considerations for Marble Dining Tables

Marble is extremely absorbent, so liquids spills require immediate attention. Marble is porous, especially when the sealant wears away, which means liquid will seep in and cause stains. However, marble is extremely durable and sturdy, so it works well for families with children. Unlike wood, there is no worry about pens to homework paper resulting in words accidentally being pressed into the wood. However, much like wood, marble dining tables can be extremely heavy and expensive. If improperly cared for, cracks can occur, resulting in the need for replacement of the table.

Techniques for Painting Bedside Tables

Give that old bedside table a face lift and create a lasting impression with a little paint. Recycling older furniture is quickly becoming a trend in home decorating, allowing you to keep a piece that has great lines and shape, while still making it "new" and more current with your decorated space. Does this Spark an idea?

Paint Covers All Flaws

A good coat of paint will cover just about anything that's a flaw on your bedside tabel, but that doesn't mean you should just slap that paint on and call it finished. Before painting, make sure you scrape off any loose paint that may already be on the piece of furniture. Use sand paper to make sure the entire piece is smooth, then wipe it down with a clean, dry, lint-free cloth to remove any residue and dust. Doing this step before anything else will ensure you get a nice smooth finish.
Decide on the paint you wish to use. A high gloss paint will give you a super shiny finish while a mat or satin will give you a duller finish that you can paint or decorate over.

Paint and Just Paint

There are many techniques that require just paint and nothing else. After you have put a base coat on your piece, try dabbing a sponge dipped in another complementary color over the entire table. Depending upon the pressure you use, you will achieve a marbleized effect. This can be done with rags, sponges or any thing that will make some kind of faint pattern.
Mixing a little glazing medium in your paint will allow you to work it more fully. In this way, you can lightly swirl through your paint with another color, giving another look to your piece.
Consider using the one-stroke painting technique to add some floral designs to your piece after your base coat is dry. After you have finished and your design is dry, cover the entire piece in acrylic clear coat to preserve the effect.

Combine Paint with Another Medium

There's no rule that says you have to paint any table completely. Consider combining paint and decoupage or wallpaper to get the effect you want. Find a wallpaper design that you like and use it to highlight an architectural design on the table. Paint the other sections of the piece. For example, apply wallpaper to the "window" sections of the table and use paint to frame the designs.
The same is true with stenciling or appliques. Apply the designs over the base coat and cover with clear coat to preserve your decorations.