This project is by Wes from Woodworking With Wes. This DIY project is not only budget-friendly but also allows you to add a personal touch to your home decor.
In this guide, we will walk through the steps to create a high-end TV console using solid wood, which will save you money while providing a beautiful piece of furniture that rivals store-bought options.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials and Tools
Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary materials and tools. Here’s a list of what you will need:
- Solid wood (Knotty Pine recommended)
- Wood glue
- Pocket hole jig
- Saw (table saw or miter saw)
- Sander (orbital sander recommended)
- Clamps
- Drill
- Measuring tape
- Wood finish (stain and polycrylic)
Make sure to measure your space to determine the size of your console. This project will cover how to build a console approximately 14.5 to 15.5 inches wide.
Step 2: Mill the Wood
Start by milling your wood to a thickness of three-quarters of an inch. This will provide a sturdy foundation for your console. After milling, cut the wood into the required pieces for assembly.
Step 3: Create the Face Frame
The face frame is crucial for the console’s structure and appearance. Begin by drilling pocket holes using a pocket hole jig. This allows for hidden joints that create a clean look. Clamp the wood securely to your workbench while drilling.
For this project, the top rail and side styles will be joined at a 45-degree angle. This technique hides the end grain for a more polished finish. Ensure you drill pocket holes at an angle to connect these pieces effectively.
Step 4: Assemble the Face Frame
Once the pocket holes are drilled, start assembling the face frame. Begin by sanding the insides of the frame to remove any saw blade marks. This step is essential as it’s difficult to sand once the frame is assembled.
Use a block sander to smooth the surfaces quickly. Apply wood glue to the joints and use clamps to hold everything in place while you insert pocket screws to secure the frame.
Step 5: Glue Up the Panels
With the face frames assembled, it’s time to glue up the panels needed for the sides and top of the console. If your wood boards are only 10 inches wide, you will need to glue additional pieces to achieve the desired width. Ensure the glue joints are level and sanded smooth once dried.
Step 6: Cut the Panels to Size
After the glue has dried, trim the panels to the exact measurements you’ve taken from your face frame. This ensures all pieces fit together perfectly.
For consistency, double-check that all panels are trimmed to the same width. This attention to detail will make the assembly much easier later on.
Step 7: Create Dados for Shelves
Next, you will create dados for the shelves. Set up your dado blade on the table saw and make cuts where the shelves will sit. This will provide a secure and stable fit for the shelves.
Make sure to measure carefully, as precision is key to ensuring the shelves sit flush and evenly spaced.
Step 8: Assemble the Console Frame
With all panels cut to size and dados created, begin assembling the console frame. Start with the sides and attach the shelves using glue and pocket screws. Ensure everything is flush and square as you work.
For added strength, consider using spacer blocks to keep the sides aligned and to hide any nailing.
Step 9: Attach the Top Piece
Once the sides and shelves are in place, attach the top piece of the console. Apply wood glue along the edges and secure it with pocket screws from underneath. This will create a strong joint and maintain the clean aesthetic of the console.
Step 10: Sand and Prepare for Staining
After assembling the entire console, sand all surfaces to prepare for staining. Use a finer grit sandpaper, around 120, to ensure the wood is smooth and ready to absorb the stain.
Step 11: Apply Stain and Finish
For a beautiful finish, apply a white translucent stain to the console. Use a sponge brush to apply the stain evenly, wiping off any excess with a paper towel. Allow the stain to dry for about an hour.
After the stain has dried, apply a coat of Minwax polycrylic for added protection. This will help seal the wood and enhance the overall look of your console.
Step 12: Final Cost and Reflection
In total, the cost of materials for this project came to around $125, significantly less than the $800 price tag of similar store-bought options. This project not only provides a high-quality piece of furniture but also allows you to enjoy the satisfaction of building it yourself.
Remember, the cost includes wood, finishes, and any additional supplies you may need. Always account for some waste material during your projects.
Conclusion
Building your own TV console is a rewarding experience that saves money and allows for customization to fit your home decor. With careful planning and execution, you can create a stunning piece of furniture that rivals expensive store-bought options. Happy woodworking!