Posted Feature Piece of March 2024 "Shaker Style Cherry Coffee Table" by Tom Shirley

February 29, 2024 2:46 PM | Vincent Valvo (Administrator)

Shaker Style Cherry Coffee Table

by Tom Shirley


Curly Cherry is such a dynamic species that it can be a centerpiece in any room.  When Tom was asked by a relative to build a coffee table he had an opportunity to use his curly cherry stock.  The design was his and a Shaker style was agreed upon.  Knowing the functional use of drawers in a coffee table he decided to add a couple.  Or did he?  Take a look at the coffee table picture.  The view is showing where the drawers should be.  Did he forget to add the drawers?  Did he decide that the curly cherry pattern was stunning enough?  As you've experienced, woodworkers sometimes change the design based of unforeseen events but not necessarily in this case.


Tom writes about his process, pitfalls, joinery, and more.  Given the number of mortise/tenon pairs the table couldn't be more sturdy. This is a very considered design and a terrific model to consider how to join legs, aprons, and drawer rails.  Drawers rails?  Check out Tom's Shaker Style Cherry Coffee Table. He does a wonderful job of drawing you into building his piece as though you are watching it happen in person. 


Further information can be requested from Tom Shirley.