Build An Affordable Hardwood TV Stand

This stylish and sturdy design was created by Wes from Woodworking With Wes, and it’s perfect for any living space. Whether you’re new to woodworking or have some experience, this guide will take you through the steps to create a beautiful TV stand for under $75.

Materials and Tools Needed

  • (4) 2×2 poplar boards for the legs
  • (4) 1×4 poplar boards for the shelves and top
  • Wood glue
  • Pocket hole screws
  • Wood screws
  • Sandpaper
  • Table saw
  • Pocket screw jig
  • Screw gun

Step 1: Assemble the Legs

The first part of the build is creating the legs. Wes starts with one leg already put together, which consists of three cross pieces and two uprights. The uprights are attached using pocket screws, secured with glue. He demonstrates the process of assembling the second leg, ensuring everything is spaced evenly.

Assembling the legs of the TV stand

Step 2: Attach the Cross Pieces

Wes labels the top of the leg assembly to avoid confusion during construction. He places the first cross piece at the top, ensuring the screw holes face upwards since there will be a top on the cabinet. Using a scrap piece of wood, he spaces the cross pieces perfectly. Clamps are used to hold everything in place while he secures the pieces with screws and glue.

Attaching the cross pieces to the legs

Step 3: Ensure Everything is Square

After completing one side of the leg assembly, Wes checks that everything is square. He emphasizes the importance of aligning the pieces correctly and demonstrates how to hold the assembly in place while putting screws in.

Checking for square on the leg assembly

Step 4: Add the Cleat for Stability

To prevent the cabinet from racking side to side, Wes adds a back cleat. This cleat is wider to provide extra strength. He clamps it in place and screws it down, ensuring it’s flush with the top and sides of the legs.

Adding the back cleat for stability

Step 5: Install the Shelf and Top

Next, Wes moves on to installing the shelf and the top. He drills holes in the back of the top for solid anchoring, allowing for wood expansion. The shelf is cut slightly narrower than the space to permit movement. Wes explains how to screw in the shelf from underneath to maintain a clean look.

Installing the shelf and top of the TV stand

Step 6: Final Assembly and Sanding

Wes turns the assembly upside down to make it easier to mount the top. After marking for equal overhang, he ensures that the elongated holes allow for movement. The final step involves sanding the edges to break sharp corners, giving the TV stand a polished finish. He uses sandpaper instead of a router for this step.

Sanding the edges of the TV stand

Conclusion

With that, Wes wraps up the build, showcasing the completed hardwood TV stand. It’s not only affordable but also a great addition to any living room. He encourages viewers to enjoy the process and take pride in their woodworking projects.

Video

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