Inspired by a beautiful coffee table found on the Restoration Hardware website, John Dolechek decided to create a similar piece from scraps he had at hand. This guide will walk you through the detailed steps of building a stylish coffee table that not only looks great but also showcases your woodworking skills.
Materials and Tools Required
- Pine boards (scrap pieces)
- Kreg pocket hole jig
- Wood glue
- Clamps
- Palm sander
- Sandpaper (80, 120, and 220 grit)
- Stain (oil-based)
- Polyurethane for finish
- Drill
- Measuring tape
- Cutting saw
Step 1: Prepare the Boards
John starts by assessing his leftover pieces to build a coffee table approximately 44 by 27 inches and 14 inches tall. He begins by cutting two 8-foot boards into four 44-inch long pieces. It’s important to cut both ends for a clean finish.
Step 2: Square the Corners
Next, he prepares the scrap pieces for the plinth. Since the corners are rounded, he squares them off to create a seamless look. The pieces are cut to 12.5 inches long and 7 inches wide, ensuring uniformity with a rip cut.
Step 3: Join the Pieces Together
To join the wood pieces, John flips them upside down and uses the pocket hole jig to drill holes for screws. He places his holes about 12 inches apart for strength, ensuring that one hole is 3-4 inches from each edge. After drilling, he applies wood glue and clamps the pieces together for stability.
Step 4: Assemble the Plinth
John assembles the four sides of the plinth using the same pocket hole method. He reinforces the corners with triangular pieces from earlier cuts to create a sturdy framework.
Step 5: Sanding the Wood
With the structure assembled, John moves on to sanding. He explains the importance of using different grits: 80 for heavy imperfections, 120 for smoothing, and 220 for a fine finish. He emphasizes moving with the grain to avoid scratches.
Step 6: Staining the Table
Before staining, John applies a pre-conditioner to prevent blotchiness. He starts staining the underside of the table to ensure he is satisfied with the color before applying it to the visible part. He uses an old cotton t-shirt for an even application.
Step 7: Applying the Finish
After the stain cures overnight, he applies a protective coat of oil-based polyurethane to seal the wood. John stresses the importance of sanding lightly between each coat for a smooth finish. He attaches the plinth to the tabletop using the previously drilled pocket holes.
Final Touches
After the final coat dries, John has a beautiful coffee table that not only looks expensive but also reflects his craftsmanship. He encourages viewers to share their thoughts and experiences with the project.
With this guide, anyone can take on the challenge of building their own coffee table, transforming simple materials into a stunning piece of furniture.