The Apron of a table is made up of the 4 horizontal frame pieces located directly under the top. It serves a couple of important functions. First, it provides a means of attaching the top to the base. Second, it helps the base resist sideways racking forces. If you have a wobbly table, a possible cause is either a loose or poorly designed/assembled apron. Function aside, the apron can be embellished with decorative elements.
Have a look at my earlier post entitled Evolution. I wasn't happy with the apron. While the table's frame had evolved into a satisfying shape, the apron felt oddly chunky and square. While playing with some scrap wood on the bandsaw (don't let your kids do this) I came up with a solution shaping curves into the top side of each piece. The table top now seems to float, poised atop the frame while light openings in the apron give more visual impact. This is more in keeping with the design aesthetically and yet the mechanical function of the apron remains uncompromised.
Sculptor Henry Moore pioneered the use of negative space in his work.
