first project ever, already struggling!

Submitted by kabili1220 on Mon, 01/13/2014 - 08:43

Hi everyone! I've been eyeballing the plans on this site for months and finally got the courage to try my first build project! :) I decided on the simple console table here: http://ana-white.com/2013/09/plans/updated-simplest-console.

I got all my supplies and got my cuts made successfully. I'm working on step one, joining the 1x3s and 1x2s for the legs. I supported the overhang with scrap wood, like the tip mentioned. I clamped the pieces together and to the edge of my work table. I'm trying to hammer finish nails by hand, since I haven't bought a nailer/nailgun. My problem is the pieces seem to move before I can finish driving the nail, despite my clamps! :( Perhaps the table I'm working on isn't sturdy enough? I'm sure I need more practice with driving nails straight and efficiently. Any suggestions from a more experienced person?

Thanks, all! I hope I can get past these "growing pains" and learn and start contributing to this community! :)

JeremyFox

Mon, 01/13/2014 - 13:56

Hi,

Try hammering the nails through the 1x3s before you clamp the 1x3s to the 1x2s. Hammer just enough so that the sharp end of the nails just show through (protruding about 2mm or 1/16th of an inch), then clamp the pieces together with your scrap piece supporting the overhang. The points of the nails should stop the 1x3 from slipping about.

Good luck! And let me know if it works for you.
Cheers,
Jeremy

JoNell Lynch

Sun, 02/02/2014 - 14:11

I found a inexpensive nailer at Home Depot and it makes all the difference in the world. You can actually "tack" things with your nailer and glue before you screw your pieces together. I got several large clamps for Christmas and I love them. I am finishing up on the Rustic X side table for my son and then I'll be starting on the Rustic X coffee table. I also asked the lumber guy at Lowe's for suggestions on how to do the angles on the table and he was a wealth of info.

kabili1220

Tue, 02/04/2014 - 05:35

ooh, do tell about the nailer, please! :) I have all sorts of things I want to build and need to build confidence and experience so I'll actually start them!

I did finish the console table, btw. While all pieces are not exactly square, level, perfect, etc., I'm satisfied with it as a first effort. :)