After completing the frame, I pounded in all of the cut off nails that were protruding from the surface of the piece. These nail pieces will tear up your sandpaper in an instant, so it will save you some money if you go ahead and do a thorough job to start.

I sanded the frame for what seemed like forever, using 80 grit then 120 grit paper. I flipped the table over several times and sunk the nails on all sides, sanding along the way. My main goal with the sanding was to keep my guests from getting splinters from sitting at the table, not to remove too much of the character from the wood. After all, this is supposed to be a rustic table.

After sanding thoroughly, I wiped the piece down with a wet rag to remove the dust. I then started laying out the slats on the table. I wanted to leave a small space in between each of the slats. This was for two reasons. First, it is winter now and, once summer arrives, these slats will expand. I don’t want them cracking from the pressure. Second, this piece will live on my back patio with no cover and I want water to be able to drain through the piece.