This project was built and designed by Jonny from Jonny Builds. It includes two versions of a modern farmhouse coffee table—one beginner-friendly and one made from reclaimed oak flooring pulled from a horse barn in Oklahoma City.
Jonny’s build shows how furniture projects can be tailored to your skill level, tools, and materials. Whether you use construction lumber or reclaimed wood, this coffee table is functional, stylish, and rewarding to make.
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Two Approaches, One Timeless Design
The build starts with inspiration from a Maker Faire event, where Jonny discovered furniture hardware kits from Kit & Co. These kits simplify construction and work well for both new and experienced woodworkers.
Jonny decided to build two tables: one from standard pine 2x6s using the hardware kit as-is, and one from weathered oak flooring salvaged from a hayloft once used to house Clydesdale horses. The goal was to show that the same design could suit both basic and premium builds.
Building the Beginner-Friendly Version
The first version is ideal for anyone looking to get started with woodworking. Using basic pine lumber and simple tools, Jonny cuts the boards to size and assembles them using the kit’s metal frame.
This version comes together in about an hour. With no need for complicated joinery, it’s a great way to build a solid, modern table with minimal hassle. The design is clean and sturdy, and the materials are easy to source.
Working with Reclaimed Oak Flooring
The second version is more advanced, built from reclaimed tongue-and-groove oak boards. These came from a historic barn in Oklahoma City, offering a story and character that new lumber can’t replicate.
After cutting the flooring to length, Jonny removes the tongue-and-groove edges for a cleaner glue-up. Because the boards are uneven, he skips traditional joinery and instead uses a doweling jig to create self-centering holes for alignment.
Gluing and Filling Imperfections
Once the boards are doweled and glued, clamps are used to flatten the panel. The next day, Jonny fills cracks and voids with black-tinted epoxy, carefully applied with a syringe for precision. A heat gun helps eliminate bubbles before the epoxy cures.
For smaller gaps, a mix of wood glue and sawdust is used. This creates a natural-looking filler that blends in after sanding. The tabletop is trimmed to final size using a straightedge and circular saw for crisp edges.
Strengthening with a Metal Strap
To prevent warping, a steel strap is inlaid on the underside of the table. Jonny uses a router to cut a shallow groove, then cleans up the corners with a chisel. This extra step adds structural integrity while staying out of sight.
This technique is especially useful for wide tabletops made from multiple boards, helping them stay flat over time.
Sanding and Finishing
Sanding is done with an orbital sander, working through progressively finer grits. Once the surface is smooth, Jonny applies two coats of a penetrating finish followed by wax.
The wax brings out the oak’s rich tone and adds a subtle sheen. It also protects the wood and is easy to maintain or reapply later if needed.
Attaching the Hardware Kit
The final step is mounting the metal legs. Jonny pre-drills holes and uses appropriately sized screws to avoid splitting. The frame connects cleanly and adds an industrial touch to the warm, rustic top.
This hardware-first design makes it easy to switch materials while keeping the assembly process simple.
A Table That Tells a Story
What makes this project stand out is its adaptability. The pine version is great for quick builds or first-time furniture makers. The oak version offers a more refined finish, with a story built into the wood.
By showing both, Jonny demonstrates that a thoughtful design can serve a range of budgets, tools, and experience levels. It’s a great reminder that reclaimed wood isn’t just a trend—it’s an opportunity to build something meaningful.
Please support Jonny by checking out his website here: https://www.jonny-builds.com/.