My maple coffee table #1: Sketchup model, ideas welcome please.

That is exactly how I make my Tables. I do not glue the top to the bottom. I use corner braces to ensure it stays square and adds strength. I am not exactly sure what you are calling a button though, I use what I call a cleat to attach the top. Please let me know if I am using the wrong terminology.

-- Bill - "Freedon flies in your heart like an Eagle" Audie Murphy

Interesting table

-- W James Brokenbourgh Custom furniture maker http://artisticwoodstudio.com/

You have arches on the aprons and straight tapered legs. I would try to incorporate a curve on the legs so you have a more cohesive design. Or, if you want to keep the tapered legs, you could not cut curves on the aprons and make them square. But I would do one or the other.

I cant see if there is a measurement on the over hang of the top and base, but I wouldn’t go much more than 1.5”, tops.

I am not sure what your skill set is (you don’t have any posted projects) but drawers are always a good idea, especially on a coffee table. It may take longer but it is worth it, adding storage is always a good idea. I usually end up regretting not including at least one drawer on a piece. If you don’t feel like making drawers you can easily add a shelf.

And make sure you cut your mortise and tennons while the stock is square. I makes life so much easier.

-- You can't stand apart unless you're prepared to stand alone. Alex, Cleveland

I would have to agree Alex, straight and no wider than 3 inches for the aprons.

-- Bill - "Freedon flies in your heart like an Eagle" Audie Murphy

wseand, I’m probably using the wrong terminology. What I plan to do is similar to what you describe. Alex, I don’t feel confident enough in my skill level to construct drawers in the table. Plus my wife asked for a simple design, just a top and legs basically. I like the idea of the curved leg and I will model a few options in Sketchup and see how they look. Not really sure how I will construct them if I decide to go that route. The table overhangs are 1 1/2” on the front and back and 3” on the sides. And I went with 4” aprons to allow for the arch to not take away a lot of the aprons strength. Thanks for all the comments, I find this very helpful.

-- Drew, Delaware

When it comes down to it Drew it is what ever you like the look of. The table looks fine the way it is, it was just a suggestion.

-- Bill - "Freedon flies in your heart like an Eagle" Audie Murphy