Display Table

Using a pocket-hole jig, drill pocket holes at the ends of the rails (C, D) (Project Diagram, Side Frames). Glue and pocket-screw two short frames (A/B/C) and two long frames (A/D/E). Wipe away any glue that squeezes out and let dry. Afterward, sand the frame joints smooth.

Dry-assemble the sides using clamps and measure the distance between the bottom rails (C, E) in both directions. Cut the bottom shelf (F) to fit between the bottom rails and drill pocket holes in the underside. Sand the top face with 120-grit and then 180-grit sandpaper and wipe clean. Apply one coat of stain and let dry. (We used Cabot Moonshadow, #78062.) Then apply two coats of clear finish.

Measure between the top rails (B, D) and cut the top shelf (F) to fit the opening. Drill pocket holes where shown (Upper Shelf). Sand the top surface and wipe clean. Then stain the top to match the bottom shelf and let dry. Follow that with two coats of clear finish.

Lower the top shelf into position between the top rails until it rests on the inside legs (G). Pocket-screw the shelf to the upper frame rails (B, D).

Drill pocket holes where shown in the frame sides (M) (Table Top). Then glue and screw the sides to the front and back (L) and let dry.

Glue and clamp the top frame to the top rails and stiles. Sand the frame edges smooth with the rails and corners.

Glue and screw the two subassemblies to the tray front and back (H) and let dry.

Measure between the two inside long dividers and cut the two middle dividers (K) to length. Glue and clamp the middle dividers in place to complete the tray.

Apply the same stain used on the plywood shelves and let dry. Then apply a clear finish to the tray assembly (H/I/J/K) and let dry. Lower the tray through the frame until it rests on the top shelf.

Trim an acrylic sheet to fit the top frame opening and smooth the edges with 180-grit sandpaper as needed. Using sandpaper and a block, lightly soften the sharp edges and test for a snug fit.

On the bottom shelf, you'll use strips of paint between the inside faces of the legs to create the look of an inset panel. Apply painter's tape so the tape edge closest to you just touches the inside corners of the inside legs (Bottom Shelf Paint). (It's easiest to do two opposite strips at a time and then retape for the remaining two strips.)

Apply a coat of primer and let dry. Lightly sand rough spots on the primer and wipe clean. Then apply two coats of paint.

Lower the tray onto the top shelf and add your favorite collectables to the compartments. Then lower the acrylic sheet in place.