Coffee Table

The material I used for this stylish contemporary coffee table was 17mm jarrah veneered MDF and was professionally finished with a two-pack clear satin polyurethane. Veneer board is generally supplied with a face side (best face) and a downgraded back (inside face).

Accurately cutting veneered board, or any sheet material for that matter, is best left to experts. Large dedicated panel saws with a scribing blade are used to produce multiple, accurately cut, chip-free pieces in no time at all. I strongly recommend that you contact your local cut-to-size specialist or cabinetmaker to assist you.

They may also be able to do the edging for you. A few extra bucks spent here will have you well on your way to producing your very own stylish lounge room addition.



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Bookshelf

This sturdy, but relatively simply made, shelving unit is constructed from 25mm thick MDF, as this is the ideal choice when a painted finish is desired. The adjustable shelves give ample flexibility to accommodate your library of books. Cutting the pieces to size may be done with a circular saw and straightedge, or why not have it professionally cut and you would be more than half way there!

The joining techniques don’t get any easier - simple butt joints that are glued and screwed.

The lightweight MDF back is concealed by a rebate that gives a clean looking side.



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Picture Frame

This simple but modern-looking frame starts out with just one length of standard section size timber. Here I have used Pacific maple, also known as meranti. Other species may be substituted to suit your own requirements. A double rebate is machined along the back inside edge to house the glass and the backing board. A chamfer is also machined to decorate the edge and lead the eye in towards your favourite artwork or print.


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