table legs

[burraboy]

I've got some table legs with rotted ends that I'd like to use on a new project (hall table) and would like to get some sockets in the end to recieve tenons from the new pieces. How can I get them concentric with the axis of the leg so that when I turn the leg with the new bits glued in it all lines up?

[Chipman]

Best way is to mount them on your lathe and support the foot end with a lathe steady and then cut the socket with a forstner bit mounted in a chuck in the the tail stock.

Another way... make a template piece. Turn up a block that fits onto the leg then drill with a fostner bit through the end of this block. When you place this over the end of the leg, you should be able to bore a straight hole for the socket. You should also be able to turn up a temporary tenon with a shoulder to help you cut the end of the damaged leg square.

Cheers,
Chipman