Coffee Table Question

[roughsawn]

I'm building a 24"X48" coffee table. 2" legs, 16"-18" tall. 4" tall X 1" aprons. No bottom shelf. Actually, the frame itself will be around 20"X44". It'll have a live edge top, so I'll probably overhang a little more than the usual 1".

Is it necessary to have any kind of stretchers on the bottom, between the legs? 

[wtnhighlander]

With proper joinery between the 18" legs and 4" aprons, I'd say no. 

Not something I would trust to pocket screws, but M&T (loose or integral) is more than strong enough for this application.

Even dowels, provided there are enough in each joint to approximate the glue surface of the M&T. Unless you expect frequent table dances...then use the M&T.

[gee-dub]

Agree.  16" to 18" legs mortised to 4" stretchers should be plenty strong.

[roughsawn]

Thanks guys, that's what I thought. Forgot to add, I'll be joining with 2" loose tenons.

[Ronn W]

YOu  ight wnat ot think abour your 1" tall aprons.  THe taller the apron the stiffer (stronger) hte talbe against sidesway.  If a taller apron still has a pleasing appearance, go taller.

[wtnhighlander]

@Ronn W, I read the original post to say 1"x4" aprons.

[roughsawn]

That is correct. My brother has seen some of the heavier furniture I've been making out of my lumber, and wants his heavy duty, also. Overkill, yes. But, why not?

He brought me five 8-1/2' long slabs, 32" wide X 2" thick, that he cut from an oak tree that he had growing on his property. He wants a live edge (both long sides) coffee table, and a 75" long book case that will fit under a couple windows, in a new addition. After taking a close look at the slabs, I think I can make it work. One of the slabs will make the top, and maybe the legs. 1/2 of another will make all the aprons.

That's after I make my wife HER new coffee table, and end table for her recliner in the living room. Looks like I'm going to be a busy boy this winter.

My new 20" planer will come in handy this winter...lol