How to: DIY Coffee Table

One on my first projects for our small apartment a few years ago was a small dinner table that failed miserably and turned into a simple and easy to do coffee table. Here is how I did it:

Materials List

• (1) 3/4″x2’x4′ Project Panel

• (2) 1″x4″x8′

• (1) 2x4x8′

• Stain

• Screws

• Sand Paper

• Glue

Optional:

• Router

• Round-over bit

• Lacquer/Polyacrilic

First, allow me to explain where my table endeavor failed. With limited tools, knowledge and space, my newly married self decided to build a small dinner table for my wife and I. However, I did not take into account the height, width and length of the “dinner table.” After purchasing a few materials at my local hardware store, I did my best to build something that resembled a table. After I finished, it did in fact look like a table. A very tall table (about 50″) and a very narrow (only about 24″). Therefore, I decided to chop the legs and turn it into a coffee table.

This is the simplest design you will probably find. It will take you about 2-3 hours to complete it. It is ideal for people on a budget and in small apartments (I cant tell you how many times we’ve use this table to eat and play board games.)

Step 1: Cut 2x4x8 into (4)-19 1/4″ long pieces. This measurement can be adjusted accordingly your couch height. 20″ max height worked well for us.

Step 2: Cut a  1x4x8 into (1)-48″ piece and (1)-22 1/2″ pieces. Repeat for the second 1×4.

Step 3: Attach one of the 48″ piece to the front a 19 1/4″ 2×4, leaving 3/4″ reveal on both sides of the 2×4. This will create space for the 22 1/2″ piece to sit flush on the short side of the table. Continue to check for square as you attach the pieces to the legs. Make sure to pre-drill the holes before driving the screws to avoid cracking the wood.

Step 4: Once the frame is complete, place the 2’x4′ project panel on the frame and screw the top to the frame and legs. It is a good idea to mark and space to the screws evenly to give it a better look. Do not forget to pre-drill the holes before driving the screws.

Step 5-6: Sand the whole table with 120 and 220 grit paper to give it a smooth feel. Clean the surface and apply 2-3 coats of stain, sanding with 220 grit sand paper in between coats to give it that super smooth feel.

Optional: Before applying the stain. Use a round-over bit to give the table a smooth feel along the edges. You can also achieve a round like with sand paper, but it will take a lot more time and effort.

Here are some pics of the actual table. I cannot wait to see yours.