Z-Clip Tutorial

Clint and Andrew had a lot of fun with this one! We hope you enjoy it and walk away with some new tips!

What can you use if you don’t have a biscuit joiner?

Depends on the application. I used dowel rods to join my first table which meant all I needed was a drill to make the hole for the dowel. That being said, there are other way to join a table like using tongue and groove joinery, which can be accomplished with a table saw and dado blade or a router.

How do you treat wood tables you have outside on your patio? Or prepare them for outside weather?

First thing is to use the proper wood for outside. Regular old pine won’t really cut it. Teak, mesquite, cedar and cypress will be some of your best bets depending on your budget. Then, using a proper outside sealant found at a home improvement store will go a long way. Just keep in mind with outdoor furniture that you usually have to re-apply. Although it’s really expensive, if you use teak you don’t really have to do anything.

Z-Clips at Lowes are $5.40 each. Are there different sizes for a table???

There are probably different sizes, but when it comes to tables, the pretty standard z-clip size of 5/8″ wide by 1 1/2″long should be just fine. There are MANY places to find them if you just search online.

Can you do carved table top designs?

I don’t really do that but if pressed I could put my mind to it and figure something out I guess. I’ve carved a couple designs into the sides of some headboards before.

How do you cut the slot along the skirt?

If you don’t have a biscuit joiner then just use a table saw to cut your slit.





Thanks for tuning in,

Clint Harp

& The Team at Harp Design Co.