I’d use a long mortise and tenon, pegged in the center and at least two other places, depending on the table width.
- The end should be slightly longer than the main width, in a season where the table is widest. The end should always be slightly proud of the main section
- Pin and glue the center area only. This will keep the end from rattling, as well as keeping it centered.
- After drilling the other pins, say 1/2 way between the center and edge, elongate the holes in the tenon. This will allow for movement. Use a movement calculator to establish how much elongation to add, based on your choice of wood.
- Before installing the end for good, trim the ends of the tenons, don’t allow the overall tenon length to be trapped in the mortise.
To make the joint, I’d rout the mortise first, centered in over-thick stock. Next, I’d rout the tenon into the ends of the top from alternate sides, leaving it fat. I’d sneak up on the fit with a shoulder plane. If you don’t have a shoulder plane, you can sneak up with the router. Don’t worry if you’re a tad off center,as the end part is still fat. Last, I’d properly thickness the end. It’s common for the end to be left slightly thicker than the main section.
Play around with some MDF to get the feel for the different operations if you’re uncomfortable.
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