Thomas Keirle, Poker Table (Student Awards 2017)

I have constructed this poker table from merbau timber as it is a popular timber choice used in outdoor furniture due to its durability. I have always wanted to own a poker table as I enjoy the game, so I thought this would be a great opportunity to build it myself and add some extra features. The poker table can be easily transported as it breaks down into three parts: tabletop, cabinet, and base. When I was designing the table, I didn't want any wasted space so I decided to make a cabinet with an adjustable shelf inside. To help separate the individual players sections I used some scrap merbau timber to create inlays. I have used speed felt on the playing surface and the individual players section as it is waterproof and the cards slide across it with ease due to the fact that the suits on the speed felt are raised, allowing air to get underneath the cards, hence why they glide across the table. To stop the cards from falling off the edge of the table, I sank the playing surface 5mm and used a trimming router to router a 5mm curved edge along the inner side of the table which stops the cards from gliding off the table. Because of the slight rounded edge, you can still sweep the cards up easily without them getting stuck. The drink holders, the felt playing surface and the felted chip compartments are all removable which help if any spills occur or when transporting. I have used a water-based satin Cabothane finish as it is highly durable and shows minimal fingerprints. The joints I have used are: cross halving joint in the base, domino joint in the cabinet, biscuit joint in the cabinet door and plywood base frame, rebate joint in the sides of the table to connect it to the table top. (I made a feature of the joint by using a V-bit on the trimming router and routed a groove where the sides met the top.) With the table being an octagon, getting the angles precise was mandatory because if the angles were slightly out it would throw the whole table off and not match up, so my decision was to build a jig. This worked well although it took a lot of time to do precisely. I'm currently designing a tabletop which can go on top to be used as a dining table to maximise the overall functionality of the piece. I enjoyed building this poker table and it is currently being put to some good use. Thomas Keirle, Year 12, Wellington High School, NSW. Teacher: Tammy Nugent

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