Abstract of Project I had in my possession a large elm logs that I cut out of a tree three years ago. For my edge project I took this log that I had and turned it into a coffee table. The steps that I took to do this are first, I needed to build a jig around the log to be able to work on it. Then once the jig was built I was able to use a special router to run across both the top and the bottom of the log to get it to the right thickness and to make the thickness of the log uniform. Once the log was uniform in thickness I was able to take a small planer tool to make it slightly smoother. Next I will took a belt sander to make it even smoother, than a palm sander. Once it was smooth enough I needed to lay in some dovetails into larger cracks in the wood. Sand it one more time after the dovetails were laid in and then layered it with gloss to finish it off. I also found, finished and attached the legs to the table to finish it. 

 

Larger Purpose The larger purpose of this project is to create a new skill for myself. I have done similar things to this before but nothing quite this involved. I also hope to be able to gain skills from this project that I will be able to teach my boys some time down the road.

 

Project Goal For my edge project I have taken the rough cut piece of elm that I had and, created a finished Elm Log Coffee table.

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Outcomes Now that I have created this Elm Log Coffee Table, I have gained the knowledge and skills from the experience that I will be able to apply to future projects I work on.

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Now that I have created this Elm Log Coffee Table, I have something tangible to show my boys what you can accomplish when you put your mind to something.

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Deliverables

I created a finished Elm Log Coffee Table.

I have provided pictures of me creating the Elm Log Coffee Table.

I have provided a picture of me and my boys with the finished Elm Log Coffee Table.

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Differentiation This project has helped me stand out in my major by proving that I have the capability to, accomplish my goals, work efficiently with my hands, and that I have the ability to pay attention to the details of a project.

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Costs

cost of the unfinished log= 150$

Cost of the tools I will use= Over 500$

Cost of other materials used such as glue, dovetails, finishing gloss, and the legs for underneath the table= 300$

Cost of time is 25$ an hour for 50 hours= 1250$

total=2220$

Timeline Started in May 25 2016, ended August 4 2016.