Thread: Big, old & reuseable

Hmm..
Looking for something to do, I embarked on some ambitious projects. Ambitious because there is only me who is helped by myself, I think you know the drift.
I had an old pergola built from Oregon (1st photo) which I replaced with the new pergola (3rd photo). That task alone was exacting, My father-in-law gave me a hand holding the ridge beam while I propped into position and also the rafters and bracing as the items were too long or heavy to manage completely by myself.
From the old pergola beams (2nd photo) I made a new outdoor table measuring 1900mm x 950mm. This is still work in progress as removing the old paint is quite a job. I have an old but exceptionally robust Ryobi electric planer (Model L22L) but now some 30 years down the track I find it difficult to get replacement blades. There is a lot of work sanding the timber because I find the grain varies in consistency and hardness and it is difficult getting a smooth finish. This morning in sheer desperation, I coated the table top with Feast Watson Sanding Sealer and tomorrow I will start sanding again to see if I can get a smooth surface.
WIth the remainder of the old beams, I am considering making 6 chairs and also some cupboard/work benches to house all my tools. The old kitchen cupboards which I have used for years have finally started to disintegrate, So... time for new ones.
I would appreciate hearing from anyone who has made outdoor table chairs as I do not have a design at this stage.
Thanks for reading this post.
Gregg