Cut Out Elliptical Surface

• 1). Determine desired table dimensions. Once your know your desired length (L) and width (W), plug those into the formula:
  
  D equals the square root of (LxL) - (WxW).
  
  The value "D" is the distance needed between your two marker nails. Multiply the length by itself and the width by itself, then subtract the width total from the length total. Then, find the square root of the new number. If you wanted a table 5 feet by 4 feet, then subtract 16 from 25. From the resulting answer of nine, find the square root, which is three. The nails for that table should be placed 3 feet apart.
  
  
• 2). On your large piece of wood, whether it be an old door, piece of plywood, or other purchased lumber, mark the two end points of the long axis of your ellipse by nailing one nail on each end.
  
  
• 3). Cut a piece of string 5 inches longer than the total finished length of your ellipse and form a slip knot. To do this, make a loop with your string, which should form an "X" shape. Take the piece of string on the top of the "X" and wrap it behind and back through the original loop. This will create a second loop that you continue to pull through the original loop to create your slip knot (see Resources).
  
  
• 4). Wrap your large string loop around your marker nails. Put your pencil against an inside edge of the string and pull out gently until it makes a triangle shape with the pencil and nails. Pull until there is tension in the loop. To help with this process, you can purchase a small grommet from Radio Shack or a craft store. The grommet, a hollow circle with an indentation on the outside to hold the string, fits on the tip of your pencil and allows the string to move smoothly around it. Once you have obtained adequate tension on your string, slip your knot and tie it off to keep it from slipping while you draw.
  
  
• 5). Trace around your marker nails with your pencil on the string until you have formed a completed ellipse.
  
  
• 6). Use a jig saw to cut out your elliptical piece of wood.
  
  

Attach Surface to Legs

• 1). Turn the table surface upside down, so you are working on the bottom surface. Attach four straight-top plates to the underside of table where you wish legs to be. Mounting screws should be included when you purchase the hardware.
  
  
• 2). Use the table-leg hanger bolt to attach the preformed table legs to the straight tops.
  
  
• 3). Turn the table right-side up. Sand the surface and paint or stain.