How to assemble an extendable dining table

• Allen key (supplied)
• Spanner or socket set
• Cross-head screwdriver
• Soft mallet

Before you start, lay everything out on a soft surface (the flattened box works) and check it against the parts list in your manual.

• Two tabletop halves on runners
• Extension leaf or folding butterfly leaf
• Legs with corner brackets
• Alignment pins and top latches
• Bolts, washers and screws

1. 1

   Step 1: With a helper, turn the joined top upside down onto a blanket; do not separate the halves, as the runners are often factory-set.

2. 2

   Step 2: Bolt each leg into its corner bracket, snug but not fully tight, so the legs can settle as the frame is loaded.

3. 3

   Step 3: Turn the table upright with two people, lifting by the frame rather than the top halves, which can slide apart.

4. 4

   Step 4: Pull the halves open and fit the leaf or unfold the butterfly leaf, pushing its alignment pins into the holes in both halves.

5. 5

   Step 5: Close the halves onto the leaf and check the joints: if one side is higher, adjust the alignment pins or runner stops as the manual shows.

6. 6

   Step 6: Engage the top latches underneath so the halves cannot drift apart during meals.

7. 7

   Step 7: Fully tighten the leg bolts, then open and close the table twice to check it runs without binding.

• Lifting the table by the top halves so they slide open and pinch fingers.
• Forcing a stiff runner instead of checking for a transit screw or packing block left in it.
• Leaving the latches open, so plates drift apart at the seam.