My table is 9' x 34", 2x6 frame set back 1" from the edge if the 7/8" 9 ply top; a material used for concrete forms, 4x4 legs cross frames 2x4 on 16" centers. the ply comes 4' wide so the 14" wide piece is a shelf below! It is big because I work with giant scale. What ever you use should be stiff enough not to bend! Plywood a 1/2" thick would work for most needs!!