myanmar coffee table

I built a table that has a map of Myanmar on it. With most of my family living in Myanmar, this table represents that my family will always be there with me. The table is a representation of family living across the globe but still being connected. I faced many challenges throughout the process of making the table (such as properly cutting the wood, or using the bandsaw to cut the exact map pieces out); however, with every new challenge, a new spark of motivation appeared. I take special pride in this table because I felt like I made something with meaning to it, something that will connect me with my family from miles and miles away.

Skills Employed

Sketchup
CNC Milling
Table Saw
Vertical Bandsaw
Laser Cutter
Router

Figure 1. Final Myanmar Coffee Table

Approach

Essentially:

Used Sketchup to create a 3D model of the overall assembly and parts.
The borders of the Myanmar regions were not exact so I mapped out general regions to be laser cut, then used the bandsaw to get more precise region borders
Used the CNC to mill out the overall country border.
Used the table saw to cut some leg components, then CNC Milled the triangular pattern inside, then created and used a fixture to create a 45 degree angle on the table legs
Placed the cut out regions of the country onto the table and added resin in the gaps
Assembled and glued together the pieces

Figure 2. 3D CAD model of Myanmar Coffee Table

Figure 3. CNC the table leg components

Figure 4. Fixture for making 45deg angles on the table legs

Figure 5. Initial Laser Cut of a Region

Figure 6. Region Borders after Bandsawing

Figure 7. Test CNC milling of the tabletop

Results

The table was successfully built and has been in use since fabrication!