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Installing figure 8 fasteners isn’t difficult. You just need the right tools. The first thing to remember is that table tops shrink in the dry season and expand in humid months. This is especially true if you are drilling a shallow hole. Forstner bits are the best choice for this application. You can use one or a combination of both types of bits. Once you have the right ones, you can begin installing your table tops.
Table tops shrink during the dry season and expand during the humid months
Wood expands and contracts with changes in humidity and temperature. This movement is unavoidable, but you can mitigate its effects by using proper woodworking techniques. Table tops that have undergone rapid drying are likely to warp or bow in the middle. Whether you’re building a dining table or a coffee table, you’ll need to know when to expect these changes.
Expansion brackets are easier to install than figure 8 fasteners
Expansion brackets are generally easier to install than figure eight fasteners because they only require two screws. These screws can be inserted into a base with a corresponding amount of force. If you aren’t confident with your handiwork, you can use a figure eight fastener. The following information will help you install brackets easily. Listed below are some of the benefits of expanding brackets.
Expansion brackets are more versatile and are more flexible than figure-8 fasteners. These brackets screw into the tabletop or apron and pivot to accommodate movement of the wood. These brackets work well for smaller tables. When it comes to apron and base design, a figure-8 fastener is a better choice for smaller tables. Expansion brackets are a better option for tables that require a lot of wood.
Easy to install
When installing figure eight fasteners, you can use a forstner bit. This type of bit creates a clean, flat-bottomed hole. It is also a good choice for drilling shallow holes, as the base should be flush with the top of the fastener. Follow the instructions below to install figure eight fasteners easily. Also, remember to leave a pilot hole to facilitate screwing.
To install a table top with figure-eight fasteners, drill a hole in the base. Be sure to drill a hole just a bit deeper than the tabletop’s thickness. You’ll then place the top on the base and screw it down from below. Next, paint or stain the table top. Use the same finish on both the table top and base. Using this method will ensure the finished look is seamless and attractive.
Figure-eight fasteners are another option for attaching table tops to table aprons. These fasteners work well for smaller tables because they can be screwed to the apron. The screw is then driven through the figure-eight fastener. If you want to do the installation yourself, check out Vineta’s step-by-step tutorial for Figure 8 fasteners.
Figure-eight fasteners are made of zinc-coated steel. Once installed, they securely hold the wooden table top to the table rails. The screws recess into the top part of the vertical table top, and attach to the horizontal piece. There are many uses for figure-eight fasteners. They are also very affordable, coming in packs of 40 for an average of less than a dollar.
Inexpensive
Among the most common table hardware pieces, inexpensive figure eight fasteners are a great choice for fastening table tops to aprons. They are easy to install and pivot when the table top expands and contracts. Inexpensive figure 8 fasteners can also be installed on the outside of the apron or on the inside of the tabletop. There are many uses for these fasteners, including the construction of work tables, dining tables, and coffee table tops.
Choosing the right fastener for your project will make your work go much smoother. You may want to select the one with a Forstner bit, as this will make your hole a flat bottom and is perfect for drilling shallow holes. Make sure the bit fits the hole and leaves a pilot hole. Once you’ve found the perfect fastener, you can drill your tabletop with ease.
Choosing a high quality figure 8 fastener is essential, because a cheap version may have inferior materials. A high-quality, durable, and reliable fastener can prevent wood movement, thereby preserving the appearance of your project. Figure 8 fasteners made of 14-gauge steel are ideal for reducing wood movement. While they are commonly used to connect an apron to a surface, they have a wide variety of applications. When installing these fasteners, use a 11/16″ forstner bit to ensure a tight fit.
