Nate Large from Woodworking DIY & More has created a simple yet elegant side table that’s perfect for any space. This project is beginner-friendly and uses readily available materials, making it accessible for anyone.
Materials and Tools Needed
- 1×6 Pine wood
- 2×2 Pine wood
- Wood screws (number 8, 1.25 inches)
- Wood plugs (for covering screws)
- Corner clamps
- Drill
- Table saw
- Router (with quarter inch round over and chamfer bits)
- Sander (220 grit)
- Pencil
- Tape measure
Step 1: Preparing the Wood
Start by cutting the 1×6 wood into the following lengths:
- Two pieces at 17 inches
- Two pieces at 18.5 inches
Nate chose pine for its affordability and ease of use. Mark where the boards will line up by tracing the edge of the 18.5-inch boards. This will help center the screws when joining the boards.
Step 2: Joining the Boards
Pre-drill and counter-bore the screws to prevent splitting. It’s effective to pre-drill one set of screws and use it as a template for the others. This method allows for a more uniform look, as the screws can be sunk deep enough to be covered with wood plugs later.
Step 3: Cutting the Tabletop
Next, cut four pieces of 1×6 wood that are each 22.5 inches long for the tabletop. Arrange these pieces in a line with the finished side facing up. Center the apron on top and trace around it to mark where to drill the screw holes.
Step 4: Attaching the Tabletop
For the tabletop, the interior boards will receive two screws on each side, while the exterior boards will get a screw on each side and one in the middle. Press the boards together tightly to avoid gaps.
Step 5: Making the Legs
For the legs, cut the 2×2 wood (or 2×3 if you prefer) to a length of 23.25 inches. Use a router with a quarter-inch round over bit to smooth the edges of the legs. This creates a nice finish and uniformity across all four sides.
Step 6: Attaching the Legs
Clamp the legs into place and check for level. Pre-drill and counter-bore the screws to attach the legs, ensuring they do not interfere with the apron screws. Cover all screws with wood plugs for a clean finish.
Step 7: Finishing Touches
Once assembled, sand the entire project down to a smooth finish using 220-grit sandpaper. At this stage, you can choose to leave the wood unfinished or apply your favorite stain or polyurethane for added protection and aesthetic appeal.
Conclusion
This side table is a great project for anyone looking to enhance their space. With just a few materials and tools, Nate Large has demonstrated how to create a functional and stylish piece of furniture that can be customized to fit any decor.