I'm building a mission style coffee table with the table top approx.
22" X 48". (qtr sawn white oak).

I've seen a couple method that allow for seasonal movement of the top:

1. Method one is to use cleats on the rails with the middle mounting
hole screwed tight into the underside of the top with two more
elongated mounting holes screwed in loose.

2. Method two is to cut a kerf on the inside of the rails and use metal
z clips to secure the top.

What method is preferred or is there an even better method?

TIA

wrote in message

What method is preferred or is there an even better method?

Maybe not "better", but another option: Figure 8 table top fasteners

http://www.woodworkersshop.com/Table..._Fasteners.htm

FWIW, I've used them on quite a few table tops the past few years and,
unless I am trying to be precisely and historically accurate, they have
become one of my favorite methods.

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Last update: 10/29/06

writes:
I'm building a mission style coffee table with the table top approx.
22" X 48". (qtr sawn white oak).

I've seen a couple method that allow for seasonal movement of the top:

1. Method one is to use cleats on the rails with the middle mounting
hole screwed tight into the underside of the top with two more
elongated mounting holes screwed in loose.

2. Method two is to cut a kerf on the inside of the rails and use metal
z clips to secure the top.

What method is preferred or is there an even better method?

I prefer method 2. I use the biscuit joiner to cut the slots for
the clips in the skirt.

Lee Valley has some elongated washers that can be used, too.

scott