MDF Coffee Table Holding Glasstop... w/ twist

[krazy]

Hey all,

For a project, I am creating a see thru coffee table that will hold a 3/8" glasstop.

Now, I plan on making it out of MDF (so it can support the weight of the glass). I need to create an inner ledge though for the glass so the table top is flush with the surface.

In theory, I would want to put small pieces of MDF inside and nail the outside of the table to these pieces inside to support them (creating the lip).

BUT... it is imperative to the project that the outside be a glossy black with no visible nails (same with the inside).

What do I do?

Suggestions? I have zero carpentry experience.

Also, what should I do to paint the MDF my glossy black? I heard it needs special coatings and other things because it tends to suck up paint like a sponge.

Thanks so much for any help!
Josh

 

[big-all]

use 18mm mdf and router the groove for the glass

 

[krazy]

use 18mm mdf and router the groove for the glass

Good idea.

You don't think the groove will wear away/crack over time from the weight of the glass and whatever is on the coffee table?

 

[HowlinWilf]

If you're going to rout a 3/8" rebate to hold the glass, I suggest you use 22 or 25 mm MDF - you may need the extra thickness for the weight of the glass.

As for painting it, just use ordinary primer (2 coats) and then a decent quality oil-based paint - which is how I paint MDF plinths for kitchen units.

 

[krazy]

Good call, HowlinWilf. The glass will be like 100lbs/45kilo. Plus whatever weight I put on the coffee table.

Any idea if it needs reinforcement on the inside? Will nails holding it together on the outside be enough?

Speaking of nails, any ideas on how I cover up the nails so you cannot see them after the table is put together (and under the paint and laquer)?

 

[HowlinWilf]

I wouldn't use nails at all.

I would drill for screws, countersinking the hole so the screws sit below the surface, and then fill and sand - and then paint. Much tougher and more permanent.

And, yeah, I would add reinforcement below the MDF to support the glass - just glue and screw more MDF or ply (6mm thick and 30mm wide should be enough) directly under the rebate for the glass and flush with the edge visible through the glass.