This contemporary coffee table was designed and built by Elena Makes. With simple materials and tools, this guide walks through the step-by-step process to create a unique piece that can elevate any living room space.
Materials and Tools Needed
- 1×8 maple boards
- Biscuit joiner
- Wood glue
- Biscuit (for joining boards)
- Clamps
- Belt sander
- Jigsaw
- Drum sander
- Router
- Random orbital sander
- Danish oil
- Paste wax
- Metal table legs
Step 1: Prepare the Boards
To start, Elena selected some 1×8 boards of maple for the tabletop. The plan was to create an organic shape, so she cut one of the boards to maximize the area needed for the design.
Step 2: Join the Boards
Next, she laid out the boards in the desired configuration and marked where to place the biscuits. Using the biscuit joiner, she cut crescents into the sides of the boards, ensuring they were deep enough for the biscuits.
Step 3: Apply Glue and Clamp
With the biscuits in place, she applied a solid bead of wood glue along the edges and into the biscuit cuts. Quickly, she joined the boards together and clamped them down to prevent any bowing while the glue dried.
Step 4: Sand the Surface
Once the glue was dry, Elena used a belt sander to even out the surface of the tabletop. She started sanding against the grain for rough spots and then switched to sanding with the grain for a smooth finish.
Step 5: Cut the Shape
After achieving a smooth surface, she traced the desired shape onto the wood and carefully cut it out using a jigsaw. This step was crucial for creating the unique design of the table.
Step 6: Round the Edges
To soften the look, she used a router on both sides of the piece to round the edges. This added a nice touch to the overall aesthetic.
Step 7: Final Sanding
Continuing with her sanding process, she used a random orbital sander, progressing through various grits from 80 to 220 for a flawless finish. A damp cloth was used to wipe down the surface before the final sanding.
Step 8: Apply Finish
Elena applied several coats of Danish oil to give the wood a natural finish. She finished it off with some paste wax for added protection and shine.
Step 9: Attach the Legs
Initially considering to repurpose metal legs from an old desk, she opted for lighter legs bought from Amazon instead. This decision helped maintain the table’s overall aesthetic.
Final Thoughts
The total cost of this project came out to just under $100, and Elena was thrilled with how it turned out. This contemporary coffee table not only serves a purpose but also adds character to her living room.
By following these steps, anyone can create their own stunning coffee table that reflects their personal style.