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Gluing Up a Tabletop

Learn how to glue boards together so you wind up with a flat panel to use for a tabletop or other project.

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Gluing Up a Tabletop

Gluing Up a Tabletop

Learn how to glue boards together so you wind up with a flat panel to use for a tabletop or other project.

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About

Gluing boards together to make a wide panel is a key step in projects ranging from cutting boards to shelving and tables. It seems simple enough — until you go to do it and the boards shift or don't tighten together completely.

Learn how to make the process as stress-free and successful as possible. We'll cover:

  • How to make sure the boards are completely prepared and how to fine-tune the fit if needed.
  • Whether to use biscuits, loose tenons (i.e. dominos), or cauls to align the boards.  
  • How to choose and prepare clamps.
  • What kind of glue to use, how much to use, and how to spread it. 
  • How to tighten the clamps and clean up excess glue.

You'll work with others to glue up hardwood boards that already are milled to be straight and square. To keep the materials fee low, you'll work on a group project and not take home the panel. However, if you have boards ready to glue up, you're welcome to bring them and glue them up during class with guidance from the instructor and help, if needed, from other students.

Details

A $25 materials fee, included in the class fee, covers everything you need.

Prerequisites

  • Orientation to the Woodshop
  • Woodshop Tool Safety  Checkout 1
  • Class Policies

    • Ages 14 and up are welcome.
    • You must wear safety glasses and closed-toe shoes, tie back long hair, and avoid dangling clothing or jewelry. We recommend bringing your own safety glasses.
    Instructor
    John McCormack

    John McCormack is a furniture designer, maker, and teacher living and working in Port Townsend. A graduate of the cabinet and furniture making program at North Bennet Street School in Boston, he holds a Master in Fine Arts in furniture design from Rhode Island School of Design. He has written for various publications, including Fine Woodworking, which featured his piece on The Ultimate Crosscut Sled on its cover. He got his start in woodworking by studying under John Kassay, author and expert on Shaker and Windsor furniture. Read more at his website: https://www.johnpmccormackdesign.com/

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