So not too long ago I got a table saw and router with the idea of making a few things. I've been watching YouTube videos, and joined WWGOA, and surfed Rockler & Woodworkers Supply websites. Bought a few gadgets like a pocket hole jig, random sander, and some clamps. My current project is a simple 3/4" plywood shoe cabinet that I am building with pocket holes and 1/4" ply as the shelves. Nothing very fancy. I am waiting on some edge banding to cover the ply just so I can get some experience with it. Ultimately I am just going to paint it. Its more of proof of concept that I can cut wood and keep all my fingers kind of project.
Anyway that is just sort of my background before I actually get to my questions so you can reveal your answers as if you were talking to a 10 year old.
I'm already thinking about making two end tables something like 12x18 or 16x22 for the top and maybe 28" high using some wood with nice grain pattern and maybe a live edge. Simple wood legs or some purchased metal legs. No drawers or anything just a nicely finished piece of wood that speaks to the viewer "ah that's a nice piece of wood". Mainly this projects goal is getting acquainted with sanding and finishing. (I do have some plans from Samurai Carpenter for some end tables but they might be too complicated for me at this point in time)
Questions: Keeping in mind I need to keep it simple and beginner friendly.
What kind of wood would you suggest? Maybe maple? How thick a slab?
Where should I look for this mythical unicorn wood? I saw a thread on wood sources. Since I am in Asheboro, I thought I might check out GPS Hardwoods in Kernersville. Any other places?
What kind of finish would you suggest? I've watched videos on finishing and many seem overly complicated. I guess I am looking for the idiot proof version of finishes.
I am sure there are some aspects of the project that in my ignorance I haven't considered so feel free to point those out.
Thanks in advance.
Anyway that is just sort of my background before I actually get to my questions so you can reveal your answers as if you were talking to a 10 year old.
I'm already thinking about making two end tables something like 12x18 or 16x22 for the top and maybe 28" high using some wood with nice grain pattern and maybe a live edge. Simple wood legs or some purchased metal legs. No drawers or anything just a nicely finished piece of wood that speaks to the viewer "ah that's a nice piece of wood". Mainly this projects goal is getting acquainted with sanding and finishing. (I do have some plans from Samurai Carpenter for some end tables but they might be too complicated for me at this point in time)
Questions: Keeping in mind I need to keep it simple and beginner friendly.
What kind of wood would you suggest? Maybe maple? How thick a slab?
Where should I look for this mythical unicorn wood? I saw a thread on wood sources. Since I am in Asheboro, I thought I might check out GPS Hardwoods in Kernersville. Any other places?
What kind of finish would you suggest? I've watched videos on finishing and many seem overly complicated. I guess I am looking for the idiot proof version of finishes.
I am sure there are some aspects of the project that in my ignorance I haven't considered so feel free to point those out.
Thanks in advance.