Tile Table Mixes Charm, Practicality

Although based on a style often characterized as “French country,” tile tables like this one have become increasingly popular in American homes. Their popularity rests on a blend of charm and practicality: They look good, and their ceramic tiles can handle hot pots and plates while enduring various spills and water spots.

This tile table project will appeal especially to do-it-yourselfers looking to build something unique. White tiles were used here, but ceramic tiles come in hundreds of colors and styles, so each table can become a one-of-a-kind showpiece.

Materials for this table include 3/4-inch pine lumber, one 4-x-8 sheet of fir plywood, 45 ceramic tiles, dowel pins, wood screws, glue, grout and sealer.

The table’s construction is straightforward, but a couple of steps require extra care. One is selecting and laying the tiles, since the tile thickness should match the surrounding pine rail. Slight adjustments in rail thickness may be necessary, but these adjustments are not difficult to make. The other is deciding on the legs, which can be turned on a lathe or purchased preturned.

The completed tile table measures 60 inches long-by-36 inches wide-by-30 inches high.

The Tile Table plan, No. 849, is $6.50 and includes step-by-step instructions with 15 photos, full-size traceable patterns, an exploded assembly diagram and a complete shopping list and cutting schedule.

In addition, a catalog picturing hundreds of other do-it-yourself projects for indoors and out is available for $3.95. Prices include sales tax, postage and handling.

MEMO: To order, clip this article and send it with a check or money order to U-Bild Features, c/o The Spokesman-Review, P.O. Box 2383, Van Nuys, CA 91409-2383. Specify plan number and allow three to four weeks for delivery (for first-class mail, add $1 per item).