This project was built by Ale from Ale’s Everyday. If you enjoy simple and stylish woodworking projects, be sure to check out his channel for more great DIY ideas.
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Why Build a Rustic Sofa Armrest Table?
Balancing a drink on the edge of your sofa can be frustrating, especially when there’s a risk of spills. A sofa armrest table provides a sturdy and convenient space for your coffee cup, phone, or remote.
This simple project is both practical and stylish, adding a rustic touch to your living space while keeping essentials within easy reach. It’s a great way to make use of scrap wood while creating something functional.
Getting Started with the Build
Ale designed this table as a small cube that fits snugly over the armrest of a sofa. The exact dimensions depend on the size of your furniture, ensuring a secure fit without being too tight.
By using reclaimed pallet wood, this build keeps costs low while giving a second life to old materials. The top board extends slightly beyond the armrest to provide better stability.
Preparing the Wood for Assembly
Since reclaimed wood isn’t always perfectly straight, Ale sands down each piece to smooth the surface and refine the edges. This step helps bring out the natural grain and character of the wood.
For added functionality, he includes a small square insert that serves as a drink holder. A hole is carefully drilled into this piece, allowing a coffee cup or glass to sit securely.
Adding a Border for Extra Security
To prevent items from sliding off, Ale installs a small wooden frame around the top surface. This simple addition helps keep phones, remotes, and other small items in place.
Once the frame is positioned correctly, it is attached using nails and wood glue. This ensures the structure remains strong while maintaining a clean and seamless appearance.
Creating the Drink Holder
The center of the drink holder is carefully measured before cutting the hole to fit a standard-sized cup. Careful carving ensures the hole is deep enough to keep the cup secure without cutting through the bottom.
After shaping the holder, the edges are sanded smooth to remove any rough spots. This step prevents cups from getting stuck and improves the overall look of the piece.
Final Assembly and Finishing Touches
Once all components are prepared, Ale assembles the table using wood glue and nails for extra reinforcement. Allowing the glue to fully dry is essential for maintaining durability.
To achieve a rustic look, he applies a wood stain that highlights the grain and protects the surface from wear and spills. This step enhances the aesthetic while preserving the wood’s natural character.
The Finished Armrest Table
The completed table provides a sturdy, stylish, and functional addition to any living space. Its compact design makes it perfect for small apartments, cozy reading nooks, or anywhere you need a convenient surface.
With its simple construction and practical benefits, this project is a great way to improve everyday comfort at home. Plus, the rustic finish gives it a handcrafted charm that stands out.
Want to See the Full Build?
Ale walks through each step of the build in his detailed video tutorial. His explanations make it easy to follow along, whether you’re a beginner or an experienced woodworker.