Easy DIY Table! Make any size you need!

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Easy DIY Table! Make any size you need!

I had no actual plans of blogging about this project. It was my test project for something I want to build, that is MUCH larger than this. I figured I would start off on a small scale and see if it was doable for me before I spent money on the supplies needed. Turns, out this DIY Table was super easy to make, so much so that I want to make a few more! With the right tools, a table this size only took me about 2 hours to build…crazy easy!

Since I had no plans on blogging it, I didn’t start taking pictures of the process until I was almost done. But, don’t worry, it is still easy to follow along. I am not going to give exact measurements simply because this DIY table can be built to fit your space. Need a long narrow table? Cut longer front boards and shorter side boards. Need a wide, short table? measure your length, width and height and go.

I used 1x1x6’s for the top, 1x1x2 for the skirting on the shelves, 2×2’s for the legs and 1/4inch aspen plywood for the bottom two shelves. You can use a thicker wood, just make sure you use the right size screws to secure it all.

Other tools needed:

Drill

Kreg Jig

Miter Saw

Skill Saw

Screws

I measured my space and cut 6 long pieces (length) of 1x1x2 and 4 short pieces (width). I also determined how long and wide I wanted the top to be and took into account how much overhang I wanted. If you are not sure, wait until the base is build and then determine the size you want for the top.

 

I then proceeded to drill my pocket holes with my Kreg Jig. This was the most time consuming part, because there are a lot of holes to drill.

 

I drilled two holes into the ends of each 1x1x2 and then upper holes on 2 of the long boards and 2 of the short boards. These will be used to secure the top to the base. Here is an example of how the holes should be drilled all around the table.

After everything was cut and drilled it was time to assemble. I marked the legs where I wanted the two shelves to be. I wanted a 1/2 inch inset for the skirt so I used a piece of scrap wood and some clamps to ensure the gapping was right.

After all of the supports (skirting) were in place I got to work on the plywood. I opted for a thinner plywood because they were easier for me to transport. I measured the size I needed and cut them to size. I found a chalk line to my best friend for this. If you have a table saw…I hate you….just kidding. But, a table saw would be ideal to ensure a straight cut.

 I used a circular saw to cut the board to length and width, then I measured how much I would have to notch out of each corner so that it would fit. I used a jig saw for the corners, they are not perfect, but nothing a a little wood filler can’t fix.

After the shelves were in place I placed the top on and secured it from under neath. It was at this time I decided to use some of the scrap 1x1x2’s to put some supports under the two lower shelves. I opted to tac them into place with brad nails instead of pocket screws. If you are using a thinner plywood, I would highly recommend adding some supports.

For the top I used pockets screws to secure all of the boards together (see diagram above). They pulled the boards nice and tight with no gaps.

Then, it was just a matter of sanding everything and staining. I added 3 coats of polyurethane, sanding lightly in between coats to protect it.

I love how it turned out! It is now one of my favorite pieces in our home. I plan on using it as a homework station, so I picked up some tin containers for storage. The great thing about this DIY table though is how customizable it is! I plan on making another one just like it, but it will be longer and narrower to fit the space I need it for. I also plan on using this same technique to build a new kitchen table!

I used the same process to build my new DIY Kitchen table too! I just love how it turned out!