Hidden Puzzle Table

Here is the final product in the "Up" position.

Here is the final product in the "Down" position. Voila a normal dining table.

Just your normal everyday dining room table.

In this table there is a 2-3 inch "soffet" that the top is attached to all around the table.

Here is the table turned upside down, you can see there is no bottom to the table so my plan is to remove the top, remove the legs, add a bottom and replace the top (hinged) for desired "hide away" puzzle area. I was lucky enough to remember to trace a line on the top along the perimeter so I would know where to put the hinge and make sure it was centered when I re-install..

I removed the legs of the table and turned it over so I could add the bottom and have it sit directly on the floor. This helped me keep the bottom portion of the table "flush" with trim material that forms the perimeter of the table structure. I used 3/4" MDF as it was cheaper than plywood and sturdy material. This new bottom was going to hold the table shape and keep it from being wobbly from side to side. The top portion of the table previously had this purpose, but that would be detached and only hinged on one sire so it could not serve that purpose any longer.

I used angle brackets to secure the bottom section to the perimeter as I did not want to put screws through the perimeter section which would be visible. I realized at this point that there was not going to be room to tighten one of the bolts when i put the legs back on. (damnit)

I tuned the table over and attached the legs. I ended up having to drill access holes where the leg bolts go through to have enough room for the wrench to tighten the nuts.

Here it is back upright with the legs attached, you can see the access holes that were used to be able to tighten the legs. I plan on installing felt so I wasn't too worried about the unsightly angle brackets.

I used the line I traced earlier to line up the hinge. The hinge was a standard piano hinge from local big box hardware store. At this point I wasn't sure how the hinge would hold up to the heavy top but at 10 bucks it was worth a go.

Here it is with the hinge (and the hundred little screws) installed. Moves smoothly and seems to be robust enough to handle the weight. My daughter saying take the picture already...
I didn't get pictures of me putting the felt on as my hands were sticky with glue, but I used a spray on glue (3M Super77) that set up rather quickly. I bought black felt from a local fabric store. It worked well, but looking back I wish i had done it more methodically and elicited assistance. I butchered a few spots but it is actually fine and most would never notice...