Replies

1. 
   BenM | May 22, 2003 02:56pm | #1

   Should this top have breadboard ends?   Only if the table design calls for it.

   Will the movement of the wood across the 24" width cause the ends to be misaligned at times?  Yes, particularly if the table will be in a region where there are large variations in relative humidity.

   Will the end grain be ok, or will it split as the table gets older. If the wood is properly dried and conditioned and if it is properly jointed and glued up and if it is attached to the base so that it can move with changes in humidity there should be no splitting.

2. 
   RANGERP75R | May 22, 2003 09:02pm | #2

   Bakerwood

      Just finished a table-top 1" thick of red oak. Left the end grain open. Trimmed the ends with an over-head pattern bit with a template underneath. Sanded it to 220 and then applied red oak wood filler to close the pores. Re-sanded to 220 before applying the stain. Open end-grain will darken too much (you probaly know) if the pores are not filled. I got the end grain close to the same color as the top with oil-based gel stain (a little darker). Mineral spirits and and a light 400 grit wet sanding brought it home.

      BTW, the wood was stored for about 6 months and the moisture content was about 10% moisture reading throught-out. Used this method before and I have two peices that have no splits or noticeable movement. One is about 20 years old and the other about 12. (Best I can remember) ha..ha..

   Luck...

   sarge..jt

3. 
   Clay | May 24, 2003 07:39am | #3

   I have glued up lots of tops and never had an end split.  Don't worry about them, they normally occur during the drying process when the ends dry faster than the rest of the boards.  It is a very rare problem in finished furniture pieces.  Slightly more common when wood is exposed to weathering (such as outdoor furniture or old furniture stored outside).  I think that it requires much more skill and forethought to make a piece that works and lasts with a breadboard end than without.