Piecrust Table

Although the term “form follows function” wasn’t around at the time, this piecrust table is a perfect example of that sentiment. Born in the eighteenth century as a vehicle to show off the fact that you could afford tea (very expensive at the time) was its main role.

Then again, being able to afford tea doesn’t mean you lived in a palace with marble floors. This table is happy to accommodate a small environment with a top that tilts vertically for easy storage. And having three legs prevents the table from rocking on an uneven surface like those fussy four-legged tables do.

The woodworking challenges of this project cover a pretty wide gamut. Out of the gate you’re going to spend some time at the lathe making the post that’s the backbone of this piece. Then you have a quiet task with rasps and files to form the legs, followed by the matrimonial act of dovetailing the two together.

But you’re not done yet. There’s more time at the lathe making spindles for the birdcage. Which isn’t your typical aviary — this one will constrain the wonderful top you see in all these photos that pivots up and down as needed.

The top, if you so choose, has a lot of luscious carving that can be done with a modest trio of chisels. That’s a full plate by any standards. So if you’re up for a fun journey.

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