Osborne Builder's Studio: Attaching a Table Top with Figure 8 Fasteners
In this Builder's Studio, Jonah demonstrates an alternative method of attaching your wood table top to a table base. Pocket holes are often used but when your build calls for a little movement in the wood, these are a great option!
Products used in this build:
- Figure 8 Fasteners (Part #929) - these are sold in a set of 16 *screws are not included
- Custom Table Base Kit
Assembly Instructions
Materials Used:
- Figure 8 Fasteners (Part #929)
- Screws
- Custom Table Base Kit
- Table top
- Drill
- 3/4" Forstner bit
Instructions:
Step 1
Figure eight fasteners are an alternative to pocket holes and other attachment methods. They allow for wood movement in all climates while providing a secure fit. To use them, you first need to have your table base and table top assembled and ready for attachment.
Step 2
Examine the size of your build and determine the number of fasteners you feel is necessary for your build.
- Each pack of figure 8 fasteners comes with 16 fasteners, so feel free to use as many as you feel necessary.
Step 3
You will want to install your fasteners evenly between the lengths of each side of your table skirting.
Step 4
To begin, start by measuring your skirting and making your marks on the top where you plan to install the fasteners.
Step 5
The larger end of the fastener will recess into the skirt board. Make a mark at the center of the fastener. This will be where you will recess the wood.
Place your fastener so that the large end overhangs just slightly to allow as much room as possible to screw your table top down later.
Step 6
Using a 3/4” forstner bit, drill out your spots just slightly deeper than the thickness of the fasteners (they have a 1/8" thickness).
Step 7
Next, use screws to secure your fasteners.
- Make sure the head of the screw does not stick out higher than the fastener as this will interfere with the tabletop.
- Make sure the screws are snug, but not overly tightened.
Step 8
Finally, center the table top and screw the base to the top using the fasteners.
