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Fixing a big mistake

2K views 14 replies 10 participants last post by  StumpyNubs 
#1 · (Edited by Moderator)
Not sure if I should be posting this question into this section, so sorry in advance. I am building 2 cherry tables, One sofa/hall table and the other is a coffee table. I inlayed a curly maple border into the table top of the hall table and while trying to do the same to the coffee table I wasn't being as careful as I should have been and took a huge chunk of cherry wood out of the table top where I shouldn't have. Is there any way to fix a 1/2 inch circle 1/8 inch deep from my router bit?
 
#4 ·
since router was involved I can only assume the 'missing material' is no longer available to be glued back in? if so the only thing you can do is try to fine another cherry piece with matching grain and patch it. OR (and this is a big OR since I don't know how that top is made) - could you flip that top and use the otherside thus hiding the error on the bottom unseen side of the table top perhaps?

of course you can always "redesign" that top and create a new inlay design into it to cover up that mistake by making it a design element - but then you won't have a matching set with the other table.
 
#9 ·
If you can flip it to the bottom that would be easiest. However I'd be inclined to do the inlay just as the rest of the project and add a moderatly contrasting piece to this area. I don't think tha t ruins a piece, it gives it distention. The question is is the project for you or a customer? That would really sway the decision process.

If you want to plug it with cherry you would really have to pay attention to grain and color. If you have a cutoff from that board you could be in luck.
 
#10 ·
Thanks for everyones input, the only problem with just flipped the table over is the fact that I was smart enough to edge route the table top before trying to do the inlay. Go figure, I guess that makes 2 mistakes LOL I am thinking of just making it wider and inlaying a thicker piece of curly maple, but do you all think 1 3/4 inches would be to thick?
 
#12 ·
What I think I'd try is this: Take and sand the whole table top down below the mistake…..Start with some 60-80 and work your way up to 320 (if it's solid cherry). I'd try to get it down past the bad spots, sand it all smooth, and start over, being more careful this time…:) I'd also do it with a ROS, or a wide belt drum sander, if you have one…..if not, the ROS will work…...good luck….
 
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